Travelling with a vehicle
Vehicle types & dimensions onboard our ferries
DFDS carries all types of passenger vehicles. Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size (including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars roof racks) as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Please note that only one vehicle category can be booked. If you have different vehicle categories please contact our Customer Care Center or make separate bookings for each vehicle and the persons travelling with it.
Discover everything you need to know about vehicle types, check-in procedures, and boarding for a seamless crossing with your vehicle on our UK-France routes.
Vehicle information on UK-France routes
All passengers must present relevant documents upon arrival to the terminal. These may include a valid physical passport, booking confirmation, documents for vehicle or pet travel, and/or other required documents, depending on the rules and regulations of country you are travelling to.
The car check-in at the port of Dover, Dunkirk, Calais, Newhaven & Dieppe is very well signposted. First, drive to the check-in counter and keep your ID card / passport, if applicable, your visa and the booking confirmation ready. Once checked in you will proceed through security and drive onto the ship where our staff will instruct you and ensure that you place your vehicle correctly.
Check in times:
Dover - Dunkirk/Calais
Check in typically closes 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. In high season we advise customers to allow 120 minutes before check in closes to pass through all controls. Check in will close promptly, therefore, we advise customers to allow plenty of time prior to departure to pass through all controls. Please note check in & departure times are based on local time.
Dunkirk/Calais - Dover
Check in typically closes 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. In high season we advise customers to allow 120 minutes before check in closes to pass through all controls. Check in will close promptly, therefore, we advise customers to allow plenty of time prior to departure to pass through all controls. Please note check in & departure times are based on local time.
Newhaven - Dieppe
Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, therefore check in will close promptly. In high season we advise customers to allow 90 minutes before check in closes to pass through all controls. Please note check in & departure times are based on local time.
Dieppe - Newhaven Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, therefore check in will close promptly. In high season we advise customers to allow 90 minutes before check in closes to pass through all controls. Please note check in & departure times are based on local time.
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Standard car: Up to 1.85m Height x 5m Length
High car: Up to 2.2m Height x 6m Length
Large/Heavy car (Newhaven Dieppe only): Up to 2.7m Height x 7m Length
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m Height x 5m & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m Height x 5m & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Caravan: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Important information: For safety reasons, we do not have electricity for caravans onboard. Gas bottles with a maximum weight of 47 kg are allowed per caravan trailer, of which at least one must be connected to a consumer device such as a refrigerator. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in. The price of a trailer is calculated per metre. No cargo may be carried in the trailer.
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Minibus: Up to 4m Height x 7m Length
Minibus: Up to 4.2m Height x 7m Length (Newhaven Dieppe only)
Private van: Up to 4m Height x 6m Length
Large private van: Up to 4m Heigh x 7m Length
Extra large private van: Up to 4m Height x 10m Length < 3.5t
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m x 5m & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m x 5m & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Small motorhome: Up to 4m Height x 7m in Length
Standard motorhome: Up to 4m Height x 10m in Length
Extra large motorhome: Up to 4m Height x 12m in Length (not applicable for Newhaven Dieppe route)
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m Height x 5m & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m Height x 5m & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Important information:
Gas bottles with a maximum weight of 47 kg are allowed per motorhome, of which at least one must be connected to a consumer device such as a refrigerator. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in.
For coaches with more than 20+ passengers you must contact our groups department who will be able to assist you further. Contact us here.
A maximum of 2 passengers are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
Motorcycle: Up to 2m in Height x 3m in Length
Motorcycle with sidecar: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
A maximum 4 passengers; 2 passengers on the motorcycle and 2 passengers in the sidecar are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length
Onboard straps are provided to attach motorcycles. We recommend you use your own straps if necessary. The attachment is made by the motorcyclists themselves. Our staff are on request to help and control the proper attachment. A liability for possible damages cannot be accepted.
Bicycle: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Maximum 1 passenger per bicycle per booking on our Dover to France routes and Newhaven to Dieppe route, this includes electric bicycles. If you are travelling with a tandem bike, you can book 2 passengers on the same booking. Please note: your bicycle will need to be ridden through the port to reach check-in so excess luggage is not permitted. Pets must be secured in a vehicle for the duration of the crossing, so we are unable to permit pets travelling on a bicycle. If you are travelling with a child, you will need to contact our call centre.
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini Trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Electric Scooters, Segways, Hoverboards: These vehicles are by law not allowed on public roads or public land which includes ports; therefore we do not allow these as passenger vehicles and attempting to bring one of these onboard will result in refusal to travel.
Vehicle information on Amsterdam-Newcastle route
All passengers must present relevant documents upon arrival to the terminal. These may include a valid passport, booking confirmation, documents for vehicle or pet travel, and/or other required documents, depending on the rules and regulations of country you are travelling to.
Vehicle passengers: The car check-in at the port of Amsterdam & Newcastle is very well signposted. First, drive to the check-in counter and keep your ID card / passport, if applicable, your visa and the booking confirmation ready. Once checked in you will proceed through security and drive onto the ship where our staff will instruct you and ensure that you place your vehicle correctly.
Check in times:
Newcastle - Amsterdam
Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time of 17:00, therefore check in will close promptly at 4:15. Please note: check in & departure times are based on local time.
Amsterdam - Newcastle
Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time of 17:30, therefore check in will close promptly at 4:45. Please note: check in & departure times are based on local time.
Please note: If you're travelling in a sportscar or low clearance car, we recommend arriving at the car check-in 15 to 75 minutes after it opens, which is approx 14:00. During this time, our loading officers will be able to assist you in finding the best spots on the car deck for your vehicle, giving you and your vehicle a smoother experience.
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Standard car: Up to 1.85m Height x 5m Length
High car: Up to 2.2m Height x 6m Length
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Sports/ low clearance car: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length
For a smoother experience, if you're travelling in a sportscar or low clearance car, we recommend arriving at the car check-in 15 to 75 minutes after it opens. During this time, our loading officers will assist you in finding the best spots on the car deck for your vehicle.
More information regarding advanced check-in and boarding can be found here.
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Caravan: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Important information: For safety reasons, we do not have electricity for caravans onboard. Gas bottles with a maximum weight of 47 kg are allowed per caravan trailer, of which at least one must be connected to a consumer device such as a refrigerator. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in. The price of a trailer is calculated per metre. No cargo may be carried in the trailer.
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Small motorhome: Up to 4m Height x 7m Length
Standard motorhome: Up to 4m Height x 10m Length
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Important information: Gas bottles with a maximum weight of 47 kg are allowed per motorhome, of which at least one must be connected to a consumer device such as a refrigerator. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in.
For coaches with more than 20+ passengers you must contact our groups department who will be able to assist you further. Contact us here.
A maximum of 2 passengers are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
Motorcycle: Up to 2m in Height x 3m in Length
Motorcycle with sidecar: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
A maximum 4 passengers; 2 passengers on the motorcycle and 2 passengers in the sidecar are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length
Onboard straps are provided to attach motorcycles. We recommend you use your own straps if necessary. The attachment is made by the motorcyclists themselves. Our staff are on request to help and control the proper attachment. A liability for possible damages cannot be accepted.
Bicycle: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Maximum 1 passenger per bicycle; this includes electric bicycles. If you are travelling with a tandem bike, you can book 2 passengers. Please note: your bicycle will need to be ridden through the port to reach check-in so excess luggage is not permitted. Pets must be secured in a vehicle for the duration of the crossing, so we are unable to permit pets travelling on a bicycle. If you are travelling with a child you will need to contact our call centre.
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Electric Scooters, Segways, Hoverboards: These vehicles are by law not allowed on public roads or public land which includes ports; therefore we do not allow these as passenger vehicles and attempting to bring one of these onboard will result in refusal to travel.
Vehicle information on Rosslare - Dunkirk route
All passengers must present relevant documents upon arrival to the terminal. These may include a valid physical passport, booking confirmation, documents for vehicle or pet travel, and/or other required documents, depending on the rules and regulations of country you are travelling to.
The car check-in at the port of Rosslare & Dunkirk are very well signposted. First, drive to the check-in counter and keep your ID card / passport, if applicable, your visa and the booking confirmation ready. Once checked in you will proceed through security and drive onto the ship where our staff will instruct you and ensure that you place your vehicle correctly.
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Standard car: Up to 1.85m Height x 5m Length
High car: Up to 2.2m Height x 6m Length
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini Trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini Trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Caravan: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Important information: For safety reasons, we do not have electricity for caravans onboard. Gas bottles with a maximum weight of 47 kg are allowed per caravan trailer, of which at least one must be connected to a consumer device such as a refrigerator. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in. The price of a trailer is calculated per metre. No cargo may be carried in the trailer.
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Extra-large private van: Up to 4m Height x 10m Length < 3.5t
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini Trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m x 5m & up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m x 5m & up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Please ensure that you select the correct vehicle size, including all additions such as bicycle racks, tow bars, and roof racks, as we need to know the amount of space to set aside for you on the car deck. Vehicles declared incorrectly at the time of booking risk being refused boarding or may be subject to additional charges at the port.
Small motorhome: Up to 4m Height x 7m in Length
Standard motorhome: Up to 4m Height x 10m in Length
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini Trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length
Caravan: Up to 4m Height x 5m & up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Trailer: Up to 4m Height x 5m & up to 4m Height x 8m Length
Important information: Gas bottles with a maximum weight of 47 kg are allowed per motorhome, of which at least one must be connected to a consumer device such as a refrigerator. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in.
A maximum of 2 passengers are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
Motorcycle: Up to 2m in Height x 3m in Length
Motorcycle with sidecar: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
A maximum 4 passengers; 2 passengers on the motorcycle and 2 passengers in the sidecar are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini Trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length
Onboard straps are provided to attach motorcycles. We recommend you use your own straps if necessary. The attachment is made by the motorcyclists themselves. Our staff are on request to help and control the proper attachment. A liability for possible damages cannot be accepted.
Bicycle: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Maximum 1 passenger per bicycle, per booking on our Rosslare -Dunkirk to routes. This includes electric bicycles. If you are travelling with a tandem bike, you can book 2 passengers on the same booking. Please note: your bicycle will need to be ridden through the port to reach check-in so excess luggage is not permitted. Pets must be secured in a vehicle for the duration of the crossing, so we are unable to permit pets travelling on a bicycle. If you are travelling with a child, you will need to contact our call centre.
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini Trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Electric Scooters, Segways, Hoverboards:
These vehicles are by law not allowed on public roads or public land which includes ports; therefore, we do not allow these as passenger vehicles and attempting to bring one of these onboard will result in refusal to travel.
Vehicle information on Copenhagen-Frederikshavn-Oslo route
All passengers must present relevant documents upon arrival to the terminal. These may include a valid physical passport, booking confirmation, documents for vehicle or pet travel, and/or other required documents, depending on the rules and regulations of country you are travelling to.
The car check-in at our terminals in Oslo, Frederikshavn and Copenhagen is very well signposted. Drive to the car check-in lane and proceed to the counter.
Check-in times:
Oslo - Frederikshavn/Copenhagen: The check-in opens two hours before departure and closes 15 minutes before departures. Note that if you are travelling with your car from Oslo to Frederikshavn, the check-in closes 50 minutes before departure.
Copenhagen - Oslo: The check-in opens two hours before departure and closes 15 minutes before departure.
Frederikshavn - Oslo: The check-in opens at 21:30 and closes at 23:30. Boarding for both foot and vehicle passengers will begin at approx. 23:55.
(If there are changes to the schedule, the openings hours will be adjusted and advertised on the door).
Boarding:
Passengers may check in at the car check-in or at the terminal. Once you have passed the car check-in point, you will not be able to leave your vehicle until you are onboard the car deck. If you wish to board on foot, you will have to enter via the terminal.
As you drive onto the ferry, our staff will instruct you and ensure that you place your vehicle correctly. Before leaving your vehicle, remember to stop the engine and apply the handbrake.
The car deck is off limit during the crossing, so remember to bring all your luggage with you that you will need onboard. Our local colleagues will gladly help you with any questions.
The dimensions below are the total height and length including roof box/bicycle racks. If you are travelling in a regular car with a roof box or skis, we recommend choosing a high car or an extra tall car.
Standard car: Up to 1.85m in Height x 5m in Length
High car: Up to 2.2m in Height x 6m in Length
Extra tall car: Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Please note that electric cars cannot be charged onboard.
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m Height x 2m Length Caravan: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length Trailer: Up to 4m Height x 5m Length & Up to 4m Height x 8m Length
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Caravan: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Important information: Booking or driving only possible in combination with a motor vehicle. Caravan does not have its own driver and does not require gasoline, so a caravan must be pulled by a motor vehicle to move it to the destination. The caravan must be equipped with a sleeping and kitchen area. For safety reasons, there is no electricity for caravans onboard. For each caravan trailer, two gas cylinders with a maximum weight of 12 kg each are allowed, which must be secured and not connected. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in. No cargo may be carried in the trailer.
The dimensions below are the total height and length including roof box/bicycle racks.
Small motorhome: Up to 4m in Height x 7m in Length
Standard motorhome: Up to 4m in Height x 10m in Length
If you are travelling with a trailer or caravan, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
Caravan: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length & Up to 4m in Height x 8m in Length
For safety reasons, there is no electricity for RVs on board. Gas bottles with a maximum weight of 47 kg are allowed per motorhome, of which at least one must be connected to a consumer device such as a refrigerator. The transportation of gas cylinders must always be stated at check-in. Converted to RV trucks are to book through the cargo department .
If you would like to travel with a larger bus (4m x 14m) and / or more passengers, please contact our groups department. Contact us here.
A maximum of 2 passengers are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
Motorcycle: Up to 2m in Height x 3m in Length
Motorcycle with sidecar: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
A maximum 4 passengers; 2 passengers on the motorcycle and 2 passengers in the sidecar are allowed to travel with this type of vehicle.
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this additionally at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Trailer: Up to 4m in Height x 5m in Length
Onboard straps are provided to attach motorcycles. We recommend you use your own straps if necessary. The attachment is made by the motorcyclists themselves. Our staff are on request to help and control the proper attachment. A liability for possible damages cannot be accepted.
Maximum 1 passenger per bicycle; this includes electric bicycles. If you are travelling with a tandem bike, you can book 2 passengers.
Please note: your bicycle will need to be ridden through the port to reach check-in so excess luggage is not permitted. If you are travelling with a child, you will need to contact our call centre.
Bicycle: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
If you are travelling with a trailer, please ensure you select this at the time of booking.
Mini trailer: Up to 2m in Height x 2m in Length
Vehicle information on Baltic Sea routes
If you would like to travel with a coach (driver is mandatory), please contact our Customer Care Center.
For coaches with more than 10+ passengers, please contact our groups department.
Monday – Friday: 09:00 – 17:00 GMT
Email: sales.pax.lt@dfds.com
DFDS ferry mobile app
The DFDS app is your ideal travel companion.
- View live departures and arrival times
- Access your booking pass
- Keep up to date with the latest travel announcements
- Follow your journey with your personalised itinerary
- Find information about onboard facilities
- Find directions to your DFDS terminals
Simply log into the app using your booking number to access these great features.