Using Le Shuttle

Using Le Shuttle - Picture From Le Shuttle Website

Are you planning a driving trip to France from the UK but would like to try something other than a ferry? You need to check out Le Shuttle, it offers a fast, weather-proof way to cross the English Channel with your vehicle.

I used Le Shuttle for the first time in April 2025 for our trip to Normandy and I was very impressed with the whole process. So here is my hints and tips for using Le Shuttle for your next trip.

Whether you're heading to France for a holiday or returning to the UK, Le Shuttle (formerly Eurotunnel) is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to travel with your car. The journey takes just 35 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to booking and using Le Shuttle.

🖥️ Booking Online

You can book your journey directly through the Le Shuttle website:

• Choose your route: Select either a one-way or return trip between Folkestone (UK) and Calais (France).

• Select your vehicle type: Prices vary depending on whether you’re driving a car, van, motorcycle, or towing a trailer.

• Pick your travel time: You’ll see available departure slots and can choose based on convenience or price.

• Add passengers: The number of people in your vehicle doesn’t affect the price, but must be declared.

• Payment: Secure your booking with a debit or credit card. You’ll receive a booking reference and QR code.

You can also manage your booking online, including changing travel times or vehicle details if needed.

🚗 At Folkestone Terminal (UK Side)

• Arrival: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Follow signs to the check-in booths.

• Check-in: Scan your booking QR code or enter your reference number. You’ll be assigned a departure lane and you will have a rear-view mirror hanger printed with your lane number, Make sure you put this on your rear-view mirror straight away. It's here that you are also given the option to go on an earlier train if you are really early, but there may be a charge so make sure you read the screens that come up before pressing confirm.

• Waiting Terminal: There is a big building that has a few shops and places to eat if you have some waiting time before your lane number is going to be called for boarding. You can stay in your car if you wish, you don't have to go into the terminal if you don't want to, but I would suggest using the toilet as the one on the train is not very big.

• Border Control: You’ll pass through UK exit checks and French entry checks at the border control booths. Make sure you have your passports ready.. You may also be asked to park to one side and have their car inspected, this is random and will only take a few minutes, so make sure you don't have anything in your car that you aren't meant to.

• Boarding: Drive onto the train when directed. Staff will guide you into position. Stay inside your vehicle during the crossing.

🚙 At Calais Terminal (France Side)

• Arrival: Same process — arrive early, check in with your booking code, and follow signs to the boarding lanes.

• Waiting Terminal: There is another terminal with shops and places to eat that you can take advantage of before boarding. Once again, make sure you use the toilet before going round to border control.

• Border Control: You’ll go through French exit checks and UK entry checks. Again, have passports and paperwork ready in case you are asked.

• Boarding: Drive onto the shuttle and remain in your vehicle. The crossing takes about 35 minutes.

📝 Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Pets: Le Shuttle is pet-friendly, but you’ll need to follow DEFRA rules and book a pet slot. There is areas for taking your pets for a walk at the terminal so you don't need to worry about them being in your vehicle for a very long period of time.

• Trailers & Roof Boxes: These may affect pricing and train allocation, declare them during booking or you could end up paying a lot more on the day you travel.

• Club Le Shuttle: Frequent travelers can join for perks like discounts and priority boarding so if you think you might start using Le Shuttle whenever you want to cross the Channel, it might be worth joining.

Le Shuttle is ideal for those who want speed, flexibility, and the comfort of staying with their vehicle. With easy online booking and efficient terminals on both sides, it’s a stress-free way to cross the Channel.

Want help planning your route beyond Calais or finding great stopovers in France? I’d be happy to help!