Operation Stack Clamps Down M20 as Police Grid Checks Wrap Up
Operation Stack is now in place on the coast-bound M20 between Junctions 8 and 9. This follows a major police operation at Kent ports where every vehicle and passenger faced thorough checks. While the policing operation has ended, border control delays continue to affect traffic.
What Is Operation Stack?
Operation Stack uses the M20 motorway carriageway to hold lorries headed for the continent. It stops chaos and gridlock across Kent’s roads during emergencies. The scheme kicks in only after expert talks and careful safety assessments.
Freight queues split into two lanes on the motorway’s hard shoulder and lane three — one for Channel Tunnel traffic, the other for port-bound lorries. A central gap stays clear for emergency vehicles and breakdowns.
Queues inch forward when ports have capacity. You might see gaps as trucks move in stages down the motorway.
Non-freight cars get sent off the motorway early, diverted onto the A20 to rejoin past the stack.
Why Are More Motorway Sections Used Early On?
At the start, freight queues grow big and may merge from port and tunnel traffic. To manage this safely, some slip roads to the tunnel and port will temporarily close.
Info for Freight Drivers & Travellers
- Freight drivers carrying ‘quick to market’ goods must show a CMR note (proof of contract) when joining Operation Stack.
- Always check with your operator before starting your trip.
Key contacts:
- Eurotunnel: 08444 630000
- Eurostar: 123 or Twitter: 123
- Eurotunnel
- Port of Dover
