It is likely that there will be limited welfare provisions available during Operation Brock, aside from a limited number of mobile toilets in certain areas. With that in mind, HGV drivers MUST carry adequate supplies for a minimum of 36 hours.

Supply suggestions include:

• Food and water (enough for at least two days)
• Additional fuel as Kent Authorities have warned there will be a fuel shortage.
• Adequate sanitary supplies (drivers may wish to invest in a portable personal lavatory as access to toilets will be limited)
• Phone and device chargers to remain contactable whilst stuck in the traffic.

Highways England have advised drivers to be aware of the following -

• All vehicles must be in a serviceable and fully working condition when they enter Operation Brock. Should your vehicle break down, you will be moved to a safe location as quickly as possible. However, be aware that the driver may be responsible for the removal fees. You are also advised to liaise with your maintenance team about their policy of recovery should you break down during Operation Brock.

• Ensure that all of your customs documentation is completed (or will be by the time you arrive) before you begin to make your way to the port/tunnel. You will not be granted access if your documents are incomplete and will be sent away. Additionally, ensure that all documentation will remain valid if you are delayed for several days. The last thing you want is to reach the port and to be sent away because your documents are wrong or have expired.

• Drivers have been advised to rest adequately before they join the queues in order for them to be able to travel as far as possible before they have to fulfill their next rest period.

• When you are parked on the road, you cannot leave your vehicle unless there is an emergency or you are asked to do so by an official. Whilst frustrating, you must remain in the cab of your vehicle at all times in preparation of moving in the queue. Failure to comply will result in a hefty fine and removal from the area.

Can I avoid Operation Brock?

Operation Brock only affects HGVs accessing the channel tunnel and the Port of Dover. It is advisable (if possible) you avoid traveling during D1ND (day one no-deal), unless absolutely necessary.

It may also be advisable for you to inquire about an alternative route which allows you to avoid Dover - Calais and to attempt to enter Europe via a different port. However, there are similar (albeit smaller) protocols which are planned to be enforced all around other busy ports in the UK.

If you are sailing out of Dover or travelling on the Eurotunnel, there is unfortunately no way to avoid the queues. If you attempt to defer from the directed routes, you WILL face a hefty fine and be removed from the area. You may even face prosecution.

Where can I get more information about Operation Brock?

Check out our article Everything We Know About Operation Brock for Dover & Folkestone or visit the official Highways England website.

You can also contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Above all else, we implore all drivers to remain safe whilst on the road. No amount of traffic or delay is worth risking your safety for. Do not try to jump the queue or making a dangerous detour. You are far more important than whatever is on the back of a lorry.