As requested, here is pretty much all you need to know with regard to taking weapons over to Waterloo 210.
I will start by saying that I myself have been over about 10 times and have not been checked once. The French customs attitude ranges from not that interested, to completely disinterested.
That said, here are your instructions:
- If travelling by ferry, declare that you are travelling with a musket at least 24 hours before travel.
- If travelling by tunnel, you can attempt to inform but this can be done at check in. Last time I informed every staff member I came across and eventually got a bloke to check my licence, but it did feel that he couldn’t be bothered)
- For the ferry You may be asked to complete a Code 100 form in advance.
- In check in, they should be aware and place an orange sticker on your windscreen. (Last year this did not happen)
- Usually you will be shown to a separate lane and boarded last.
- You potentially could be asked to show your musket and they will check the serial number against your license. However, this has only happened to me when going to Spain.
- Once on the road in France, with no fixed border to Belgium, you will simply drive to your destination with no checks.
Everyone who is taking a weapon across will receive a personalised invitation from Waterloo which will give an official valid reason for your need to travel with your weapon. This can be shared with your carrier and shown during any interaction with customs or the police should you be stopped for any reason.
Important notes
- Do not attempt to travel with other peoples weapons if they are not present with you in the vehicle. This could trigger the demand for an import/export license.
- Please check that your vehicle meets all the requirements of European road legislation.
- As always, if you have any questions feel free to message me.
NA Overseas Officer
