Q A friend of mine retiring NC from the Armed Forces
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has asked me to collect his personal equipment from a camp in Mons, Belgium, and I want to use a Bedford 'CF Luton van. Is any special documentation required and will there be any difficulties with Customs?
I believe that all the items are to be packed into cases supplied by the Army and sealed on the camp, so I would be unaware of the contents.
What would be the best route to take to Mons? and where and how does one book passage?
A It would appear that the route best suited to your purposes is via Dover-Dunkirk from where a motorway leads directly to Mons. To obtain a booking on the ferry you should contact the Car Ferry Centre, PO Box 303, 52 Grosvenor Gardens, London, SW1 (tel Freephone 2034).
Your friend should complete a Customs declaration to show that the contents of the cases are personal effects. His adjutant should be able to advise him on this. You should undertake the journey on the Community Customs Transit System, details of which can be obtained from your local office of Customs and Excise.
You do not say if you are undertaking this assignment as a favour to your friend or as a " hire and reward" activity. However, as the vehicle you propose to use does not exceed a gross weight of 6,000kg (5 tons 18cwt) you will not need an international journey permit for that part of the journey through France, and no similar permit is needed for transport through Belgium.
You must conclude the contract if it is to be undertaken for reward, before you leave the United Kingdom.