What is an effective system?

This page explains what we consider to be an effective system for protecting vehicles coming into the United Kingdom to prevent clandestine entrants from using them. For information about clandestine entrants and the fines we may impose on those who carry them, see What vehicle operators must do to prevent clandestine entrants.

For drivers, an effective system for preventing clandestine entrants includes:

• securing vehicles after loading using a padlock, seals, and tilt (TIR) cord;
• checking vehicles after each stop, physically pulling security devices to ensure they are intact, inspecting the vehicle underside, windbreaker, roof and canvas;
• recording checks on a vehicle security checklist, which is contained in our leaflet on security information for drivers (PDF 69K opens in new window); and
• conducting a thorough final check of the vehicle immediately before entering the port area.

Our leaflet How to avoid a penalty (PDF 80K opens in new window) offers a step-by-step guide on security for drivers.

For companies, an effective system for preventing clandestine entrants includes:

• providing written instructions on the system to be operated to prevent clandestine entrants, and providing a copy for all drivers, so that they are available for reference;
• providing adequate, robust security equipment to secure the vehicle, load and load space;
• training for drivers in the system to be operated and the application of security devices;
• providing vehicle security checklists for drivers to record the checks they have carried out; and
• monitoring the compliance of drivers with the instructions provided.

The full code of practice on preventing clandestine entrants (PDF 116K opens in new window) gives full details of the steps required to operate an effective system to protect vehicles.

If you have questions that are not answered here, you can contact our Civil Penalty Unit.