Port of Dunkirk freight ferry: book your HGV crossing with Smartferry

Strategic geographical position

Located right next to the Belgian border, the Port of Dunkirk is a key gateway for trade between continental Europe and the UK. It is approximately:

• 40 km from Calais
• 80 km from Lille
• 300 km from Paris
• 200 km from Brussels

Its location helps to relieve congestion on the main roads around Calais, while providing a direct link to Dover.

Infrastructures adapted to heavy goods traffic

The Dunkirk freight terminal is designed to handle heavy goods traffic. It features :

Dedicated truck access roads

• Secure parking areas
• Customs control areas
• Services for drivers (sanitary facilities, catering, etc.)

The port is connected to the A16 freeway, facilitating the routing of goods from all over France and Europe.

Frequency of crossings to the UK

The Dunkirk – Dover route is operated mainly by DFDS Seaways, with up to 24 departures per day. Departures are spread throughout the day, with an average frequency of one ferry every 90 minutes.

How booking with Smartferry works?

Smartferry is a booking platform specialized in maritime freight transport. It enables carriers to compare schedules, rates and availability in real time.

You can:

• Book a crossing for a truck or single trailer
• Choose the schedule that suits you
• Manage your bookings from a customer area

Bookings are confirmed immediately, with receipt of an electronic ticket.

Smartferry service benefits

• Clear, fast interface
• No hidden fees
• Reactive customer service
• Access to several freight ferry companies from a single platform

Smartferry is an official partner of DFDS and other European operators.

Flexible pricing

Prices vary according to:

• Type of vehicle (tractor unit, combination, trailer only)
• Vehicle length
• Selected departure time
• Flexibility (modification or cancellation)

Indicative example (to be checked in real time on the platform):

DFDS Seaways

DFDS is the only operator currently active on the Dunkirk – Dover freight route. The company offers :

• Up to 24 crossings per day
• Crossing time of around 2 hours
• On-board services for drivers (lounge, catering, sanitary facilities)

Ferries are accessible to freight vehicles only (no foot passengers).

Other freight ferry companies available

DFDS is currently the only operator on this specific route. For other destinations or ports, Smartferry also offers :

• P&O Ferries (Calais – Dover)
• Irish Ferries (Cherbourg – Dublin)
• Brittany Ferries (Caen – Portsmouth)

Comparison with Calais and Zeebrugge

Required documents

To board a freight vehicle, you need:

• The booking ticket (printed or digital)
• The vehicle registration document
• The transport document (CMR)
• The driver’s passport or identity card
• The company’s EORI number

Customs formalities

Since Brexit, customs formalities are compulsory for any crossing to the UK. You must:

• Declare your goods via the GMR (Goods Movement Reference) system
• Have an MRN (Movement Reference Number) for each declaration

Smartferry does not directly manage customs formalities, but can put you in touch with specialized partners.

Practical advice to avoid delays

• Check the weather conditions before departure
• Anticipate busy periods (Friday evening, Sunday evening)
• Plan a safety margin in case of reinforced controls