Clandestine entrant numbers are on the increase. Road transport companies and their drivers must secure vehicles coming into the UK to stop this from happening.

As a transport company, if you do not secure your vehicle and are found carrying clandestine entrants into the UK you will be issued a civil penalty (or fine).

Fines can be up to £10,000 for every person you carry illegally, and this penalty will apply to everyone responsible for the vehicle - not just the driver.

The owner or vehicle hiree can also be fined. Do not think that just because it's not your own vehicle you won't face a fine.

Minimise the Fine, Be Secure - 15 Ways to Prevent Access to your Vehicle

• Have effective security devices that secure the vehicle, your load and trailer
• Ensure the canopy/curtain of your truck is not torn
• Check that sealing cords are undamaged and pass through all fastening points

• Provide a vehicle security checklist to the driver so that there are no doubts as to what they are required to do

• Regularly check that drivers are following the instructions

• Check padlocks, seals and tilt cords are secure after loading

• Vehicle (both truck and van) checks should be performed by the driver after each stop, rest period and before entering the UK
• Check the inside of the vehicle & trailer (where applicable)

• Inspect lorry tilts and roofs for damage
• Check external storage compartments for anything suspicious
• Check below the vehicle
• Check the driver’s cab

• Always be vigilant to problems posed by migrants when travelling by ferry and Eurotunnel

• Take advantage of any pre-embarkation checks available and obtain written confirmation where possible

• There is no liability if it can be shown that a driver did not know and had no reasonable grounds for suspecting that a clandestine entrant was, or might be, concealed on board his vehicle IF they are operating an effective security system

Need more advice on preventing clandestine entrants? Take a look at the following sources

• Gov.uk Secure your vehicle to help stop illegal immigration
• Gov.uk Secure, check, record - Have you carried out your checks? (English)
• P&O Ferries - Illegal Immigrant Instructions