
Pharmaceuticals freight and shipping
Why choose LeShuttle Freight for your pharmaceuticals shipping?
When you are transporting vital pharmaceutical shipments into and out of mainland Europe, speed is obviously of the essence. With average Channel crossings of just 35 minutes, LeShuttle Freight can be your time-critical partner, ensuring that medical supplies or sensitive pharmaceuticals reach their destination quickly and efficiently.
How do pharmaceuticals get shipped with LeShuttle Freight?
We have been transporting pharmaceuticals across the Channel since 1994, so we understand customer requirements and pharma industry standards. We work extensively with customers in cold chain and pharma logistics, and frequently move medical shipments.
Before travel customers must declare whether any of the goods being shipped qualify as dangerous goods. We ask drivers to turn off all electric power sources when they board our shuttles, including refrigeration units.
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.
Frequently asked questions
Do drivers need to arrive early if they are carrying pharmaceuticals?
No. As long as the driver has the correct paperwork, the declaration process is fast and efficient and should not result in any delays to our service.
Do I have to turn off my refrigeration unit during the crossing?
Yes, we ask all drivers to switch off the power to their refrigerated containers when they board their shuttle. This is for safety reasons.
What do I do if my pharmaceutical freight cargo includes dangerous goods?
Pharmaceutical freight is only considered dangerous goods if it is registered with a UN number. If your cargo is a limited quantity of dangerous or hazardous goods, then you will not need to make a declaration before you travel. The maximum weights of limited quantities will vary for different types of goods, but you can find out the weight limits in official publications.
For all other dangerous goods shipments, you will need to make a dangerous goods declaration.
Which goods are banned?
You will find a list of prohibited items in our terms and conditions.