Fruit and vegetables freight and shipping
At LeShuttle Freight we understand the importance of keeping perishable produce as fresh as possible on its journey across the Channel.
Why choose LeShuttle Freight for your fresh produce shipping?
We work with farmers and food producers across the UK and Europe, ensuring that goods remain at the highest quality for human consumption when they reach the shelves. With just a 35-minute crossing from Folkestone to Calais, we move fresh produce through our terminals and the Channel Tunnel quickly, safely and sustainably.
For companies that import and export fruit and vegetables, having a freight partner they can rely on cannot be underestimated. Spoilage must be kept to a minimum in short shelf-life shipping, and by providing the fastest route by road into and out of the UK, LeShuttle Freight delivers every day for its food customers, and is a key part of the European cold chain logistics network.
How do fruit and vegetables get shipped with LeShuttle Freight?
If you are moving goods that need to keep cool, you don’t want your drivers to be waiting for long at the terminal. With up to six departures an hour, 365 days a year, we ensure you’re on your way as quickly as possible.
All we ask is that your drivers have everything ready for any inspections that might need to be made. Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork for your consignment, such as a certificate of conformity, and that your driver has the correct customs documents.
Our customer service staff will ensure that any checks are carried out quickly and efficiently.
Before your crossing
Simply book your crossing as normal – if you have a freight account with us, you don’t even need to book! Just make sure your company’s fleet details are up to date before using our service. When your driver arrives at our Folkestone or Calais terminals our systems will recognise their registration plate, and after border controls, security and check-in we will direct them onto our first available shuttle.
During and after the crossing
After parking up in the shuttle, drivers exit their truck. All electrical systems (including refrigeration units) have to be switched off. Drivers travel in an air-conditioned ‘Club Car’ where they can relax during the 35-minute crossing. The time drivers spend in the Club Car counts as a mandatory break in their tachograph, so they can be on their way as soon as they exit our terminal after the crossing.
Frequently asked questions
How do you keep fruit and vegetables fresh using LeShuttle Freight?
Although we ask all drivers to switch off the power to their refrigerated containers when they board their shuttle for safety reasons, this does not impact the condition of the cargo.
Do drivers need to arrive early if they are carrying fruit and vegetable freight?
No. As long as the driver has the correct paperwork, the checking process is fast and efficient and should not result in any delays to our service.
What paperwork will our drivers need for fresh produce?
If you are experienced in fruit and vegetable logistics you will be aware of what documentation is required. This usually includes having a Certificate of Conformity if you are exporting from Great Britain to the EU, and the specific rules on marketing standards and plant health controls for your consignment should also be consulted.
Is using LeShuttle Freight quicker than a ferry?
Yes. The ferry crossing from Dover to Calais takes at least 90 minutes, whereas using the Channel Tunnel with LeShuttle Freight is only a 35-minute crossing.
The Centre Douane SIVEP in Calais is dedicated to Channel Tunnel traffic only, so SIVEP checks are also faster for LeShuttle Freight customers than fruit and vegetable hauliers crossing by ferry.
