“This is a further hoop musicians have to jump through when performing in France or transiting through France to the rest of the EU". Photo: Shutterstock.
The UK Department of Business and Trade has confirmed that French customs authorities have introduced a further administrative procedure that applies to musicians taking “Merchandise in Baggage” into the European Union (EU) through the French border.
Called the Envelope Logistique Obligatoire (ELO) - also known as the Obligatory Logistics Envelope - it is understood to apply to trucks and commercial transport. The MU has received confirmation that it also applies to splitter and transit vans.
A digital port pass that brings together customs documentation
The UK Department of Business and Trade has informed the MU: “As of September 2025, France has introduced a new mandatory customs protocol known as the Envelope Logistique Obligatoire (ELO).
“This is a digital port pass that consolidates all customs documentation—export, import, transit declarations, and Entry Summary Declarations (ENS)—into a single barcode that must be presented at the border.”
You still need an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number, and have to make a simple online declaration using the online declaration service.
However, the Department for Business and Trade has said: “French Customs now requires an ELO for all shipments, including those carried in baggage.” Without the barcode, customs officials may treat the goods as undeclared, which could incur both a VAT charge and fine.
French customs authorities have put together a FAQ on the Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO).
Another barrier to musicians touring in the EU
MU Head of International Dave Webster said: “This is a further hoop musicians have to jump through when performing in France or transiting through France to the rest of the EU.
“We have appealed to Government for more advance warning of any changes so we can inform members before they are introduced. Barriers to trade for UK musicians seem to be getting higher rather than being reduced.”
Touring in the EU was on the agenda at this year’s Labour Party Conference, where MPs including the Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, Minister for EU Relations Nick Thomas-Symonds MP , Minister of State, Department for Business and Trade Chris Bryant MP and many more voiced their support for musicians.