Following the changes of 13 February 2023 there are two separate grounds for imposing a penalty. You may receive one of them or both at the same time.
1. Carrying a clandestine entrant
A penalty can be imposed for each person found in the vehicle who is attempting to enter the UK illegally. Every person found counts - with several passengers the amounts add up.
2. Inadequately securing the vehicle
Important
A penalty for failing to secure the vehicle can be imposed even when NO passenger has been found in the trailer. It is enough that the vehicle was not properly secured against unauthorised access.
Border Force checks whether appropriate safeguards were used (tarpaulins, cords, padlocks, TIR-cord), whether vehicle checks were carried out and documented, and whether the driver followed the applicable system of safeguards (Carriers' Liability Regulations 2002).
Typical situations
- A passenger got into the trailer in a car park or in the queue for the ferry without the driver's knowledge.
- A torn or incorrectly fitted tarpaulin / securing cord.
- No documentation of vehicle checks before entering the port.