ETSF stands for: External Temporary Storage Facility   External Temporary Storage Facilities (ETSF), also known as Enhanced Remote Transit Sheds or ERTS, are temporary storage facilities situated inside or near airports and docks approved by HMRC. They allow customs controlled, non-union goods to be placed into storage prior to them being processed through customs procedures or re-exported. Goods can only be held in temporary storage for a maximum time limit of 90 days. This type of temporary storage facility has to be approved by HMRC and can only be operated by, freight forwarders, customs agents, warehouse keepers and transport companies involved in the movement of goods from outside of the European Union. There are a number of benefits to using an external temporary storage facility, including: The deferment of payment of duty and taxes on the imported goods until they are assigned to a customs-approved treatment or use. Avoiding unnecessary quay rent charges. Having extra time to obtain relevant import licences and documentation that may be required, before completing a full customs declaration. With prior arrangement with customs, operators of ‘groupage’ consignments can transfer cargo directly from the airport or port, to an ETSF warehouse so that it can be unpacked before the goods are cleared by Customs. Cargo can be moved through ports and airports faster. Goods can be made accessible to the shipper more quickly than they would, if all transfers had to be cleared on arrival in terminals before they could be moved. HMRC approved temporary storage facilities, have to meet strict criteria before they can be approved as ETSF. HMRC will carry out a site audit to ensure that the following are in place before granting approval: The storage area must be suitable for storing and loading cargo The premises must be suitably secure An ullage cage (secure lockable compartment) and dedicated approved area for examination area is required Good record keeping procedures must be in place The building must be in a good state of repair and properly maintained It needs suitable and accurate scales It needs an electronic inventory linked facility It needs a community system provider (CSP) with links to CHIEF Access must be granted to HMRC border force for periodic assurance visits When cargo is transferred to an ETSF warehouse from an airport or port, the ETSF operator must offer security with a Community Transit Guarantee or Guarantee waiver for the goods. To find out more about our ETSF service and our ETSF warehouse near Southampton Docks, click here