The UK's Department of Transport has today issued new guidance to hauliers urging them to get tested for COVID-19 before heading to ports in order to allow them to cross the channel. In an email they stated:
We strongly urge HGV drivers travelling to or via France to ensure they have a negative COVID test before heading to ports. Those using Kent ports are now also legally required to have a Kent Access Permit.
HGVs leaving England for France can only cross the Channel with evidence of an authorised negative COVID test, that has been conducted within the 72-hour period before their departure. This is mandated by the UK and French governments.
HGV drivers arriving in Kent with proof of a negative Covid test and a Kent Access Permit will now be ‘fast-tracked’, with quicker access to the port or Eurotunnel terminal.
You can get tested before you arrive at a port:
Businesses can establish their own pre-departure testing facilities. The Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) can provide support and testing kits free of charge. Any business wishing to explore this further should contact CV19DfTTaskforce@dft.gov.uk in the first instance.
A list of private testing providers can we found here - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/list-of-private-providers-of-coronavirus-testing.
Testing is also now available at the EU Transition Information & Advice sites across the motorway network. Testing is being offered at 10 sites today (Saturday 2 January), but this will be rolled out across additional sites over the coming days so please check gov.uk for the latest: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/haulier-advice-site-locations
Remember to get your Kent Access Permit:
Hauliers using the Short Straits (Port of Dover or Eurotunnel) must also use the Check an HGV is Ready to Cross the Border service to:
apply for a Kent Access Permit
check you have the paperwork you need to cross the border between Great Britain and the EU via the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel
You can be fined £300 if you do not use the service when travelling through Kent ports, or if you provide a fraudulent declaration.
Covid Protocol
Please ensure you are familiar with and following the correct Covid Protocol rules when travelling. Full guidance available here: gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-hgv-operators-and-drivers-crossing-an-international-border
Get support and further information
Use our Live Chat Function (https://transport-goods-to-and-from-eu.dft.gov.uk/) or visit one of our Information and Advice sites (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/haulier-advice-site-locations) to conduct a free advisory border readiness check today.
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