Operation Stack Activated on M20 After Police Checks at Kent Ports
Operation Stack is now in place on the coast-bound carriageway of the M20 between Junctions 8 and 9 following a major police operation at Kent ports. All vehicles and passengers were checked as part of the crackdown. The policing operation has since been stood down, with border control checks returning to normal.
What Is Operation Stack?
Operation Stack is an emergency measure that uses parts of the M20 to queue lorries heading to the continent. It prevents gridlock across Kent’s roads by holding freight on the motorway. The system only kicks in after careful consultation and safety assessments with other agencies.
Freight vehicles are split into two queues on the hard shoulder and lane 3—one for Channel Tunnel traffic and one for port traffic. A middle strip remains clear for emergency vehicles, such as ambulances or broken-down trucks. Queues are released when there’s capacity at the ports.
How Traffic Is Managed During Operation Stack
- Freight trucks queue in designated lanes.
- Non-freight traffic is diverted at the first junction onto the A20 and rejoins the M20 ahead of the queue.
- Slip roads to the port and tunnel may be temporarily closed to manage freight safely.
- Sections of the motorway may clear intermittently as groups of trucks move forward in stages.
Important Info for Freight Drivers & Travellers
If you’re carrying “quick to market” goods, drivers must present a CMR note (proof of contract) to police when joining the back of Operation Stack.
Check travel updates before setting off:
- Eurotunnel: 08444 630000
- Eurostar: 123 or follow 123
- Eurotunnel official site
- Port of Dover
