The Eurotunnel experience

Check-In | Drive on | Drive off

Freedom and flexibility
Taking your car to the continent offers you complete independence. We’re the fastest cross-channel operator, so you arrive on the Continent quicker than you think. Our fares structure also offers you good value, giving you cheaper fares when you plan ahead and travel at quieter times. With no fuel supplements and no luggage restrictions, choose the hassle-free way to travel.

Direct Motorway links
On leaving the shuttle expect excellent motorway networks to keep you moving. 

Reliable service
Rough seas or high wind never delay Eurotunnel. Crossings are frequent, with up to 3 departures an hour at peak times.

Where to find us
We are very easy to find, thanks to direct motorway links from the UK to France and visa versa.

In the UK: we are near Folkestone, and have our own motorway exit at junction 11A of the M20 straight to our Check-In booths.

In France: we are just outside Calais, take junction 42 of the A16 motorway and the slip road takes you straight to our Check-In booths.

If you would like any help with planning the route to your destination, please use our Where to find us page or Route Planner.


>> Check-In
Please check in at least 30 minutes before your booked departure time, (and not more than 2 hours before).  This allows for security checks at the French and British frontier controls, and time to get into the boarding lanes.


You will need your booking reference number and the credit/debit card you used to make your booking.  If you booked online then it is the long number that appears on the booking confirmation screen or the number that our Contact Centre agent gave you.  We ask that the cardholder travel in the car as a measure against credit/debit card fraud.


>> Self Check-In
Self Check-In is an easy way to check-in allowing you to print you departure hanger. When you arrive at Check-In, stop at the kiosks located before the main booths and simply follow the step-by-step instructions displayed on the touch screens to print your departure hanger. It's easy and only takes an instant. Why not take a look at our
on-line demo and print our user guide [pdf] ?

It may be possible if you haven't booked to travel on the next available shuttle, and pay on the day, in pounds, euros, by credit card or cheque.  However, it is cheaper to book at least a day beforehand, either online or via the Contact Centre

Once through Check-In, you can either choose to visit our Passenger Terminal Buildings for a spot of shopping or a refreshment stop.

Or drive straight through to the British and French frontier controls where your passport, vehicle and official documentation (including insurance and motor breakdown cover) will be checked.


>> Drive on - drive off
Boarding is simple and safe - you will be directed to your carriage by our friendly and trustworthy staff.  Simply drive off at the end of the crossing.


>> What to expect during your journey 
Passengers stay with their vehicle throughout the journey in bright, air-conditioned carriages.  Sit back and relax, or get out and stretch your legs.  The visual display screens offer information about your journey.  Onboard staff will be happy to answer any questions. Whatever you choose to do, the 35 minute journey will be over much quicker than you think.

If you need to stop for petrol or a quick break, there is a petrol station just as you leave both the UK and French terminals.


Conditions for fuel
We regret that LPG (or equivalent flammable gas) vehicles cannot be transported by Eurotunnel even if it is being used as a secondary fuel source. 
However other dual powered vehicles can be accepted e.g. petrol/electric.