Free Covid Tests for Hauliers Heading to France Now at Rownhams and Sutton Scotney
Hauliers travelling to France must have a valid negative Covid test taken within 72 hours before boarding. Free testing is now available at Rownhams northbound services, joining Sutton Scotney southbound. There are no test facilities at Portsmouth International Port.
Operation Transmission: Get Border-Ready or Get Blocked
Operation Transmission is in full swing to ensure EU-bound lorries and trailers heading to Portsmouth International Port are fully “border ready.” Documentation checks are happening at triage sites and hauliers must have a triage pass or be pre-approved special loads before arriving at the port. This rule also applies to unaccompanied trailers—the paperwork is for the load, not the driver.
Follow the Signs or Face Delays
Portsmouth Port expects an influx of hauliers in the coming days. Those travelling from the north (M3, A34) must head to the main triage point (T1) on the A31. Follow the yellow and black signs; the correct postcode for T1 is SO24 0HU.
Avoid bypassing T1, or you risk being turned away at the port. The alternative triage site (T2) has very limited space and strict enforcement. Hauliers who miss proper checks could miss their ferry.
Essential Docs and Extra Time Needed
Hauliers should add 30 minutes to their journey for triage checks. Key documents needed include:
- Valid ferry booking reference number (no booking, no entry)
- Valid negative Covid test within 72 hours
- Applicable Movement Reference Numbers (MRN)
- Transit Accompanying Documents (TAD)
- ATA or TIR carnets if required
- Documents for plants, firearms, or special goods
Use official government sites for Covid tests to avoid delays. Portsmouth will turn away hauliers arriving without valid test results.
Special Loads Get a Break—But Register First!
If you’re hauling special loads like animals, live or fresh shellfish, fresh fish, or abnormal loads (long, wide, or heavy), you can skip triage—but only if pre-notified.
Complete the special loads form and send it 12-24 hours before sailing to avoid fuss.
