Port compound rejection at Southampton, Tilbury, or Sheerness for fuel non-compliance costs time and money — especially during July–August peak when compounds are full.
What rejection looks like
- Gate staff refuse entry — fuel above ¼ tank on RoRo
- On-port contractor siphon at premium rates
- Missed cut-off → next sailing (often 1–2 weeks on some trades)
- Storage fees in overflow compounds
Typical costs of turn-away
- Emergency siphon: £120–£350
- Extra haulage if sent away and return: £80–£200
- Missed sailing: storage + reschedule + potential buyer penalty abroad
Fix before you go
Professional pre-export drain with GBIFDA documentation. Tank and lines emptied before M27/M25 haulage to port.