Between 1st – 4th January there was an IT / system issue that affected all the SIVEP traffic from the Calais and Boulogne Border Inspection Points (BIP’s) therefore all traffic requiring SIVEP was diverted to the Dunkerque to use the facilities there, needless to say this caused major congestion and long delays in the Port of Dunkerque.

In addition to this we have also noticed that many customers do not have their documentation in order and fail to satisfy the requirements of the French authorities, which again is causing further delays.

We are pleased to confirm that the system issues have now been resolved, which should reduce the congestion and now going forward it is imperative that ALL customs documentation is in order to enable an efficient inspection process. With this in mind we ask you to play your part and please be reminded and also familiarize yourself with the requirements of the French authorities in regard to SPS/SIVEP as indicated in the link below:

https://ec.europa.eu/info/food-farming-fisheries_en

Important information

From the 1st January 2021 in an effort to aid an easy transition after Brexit the French Authorities have been lenient with regards to customs paperwork, but from Monday 11th January, with effect from 08.00hrs CET there will be a zero-tolerance policy from the French authorities and traffic will be turned away if your documentation is not in order.

DFDS