External Temporary Storage Facilities (ETSF)

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ETSF FAQ
What is an ETSF and why would operators choose to use an ETSF? Learn about the customs process for Temporary Storage and Inventory Linked Sites.
The benefits of an ETSF
Could ETSF be the answer to post-transition UK import clearance chaos?

Mitigate delays through UK Ports with an ETSF
(External Temporary Storage Facility)


The significant increase in customs checks and declarations through UK ports for roll-on roll-off (RoRo) traffic will create delays in goods being released by UK Customs. This will impact anyone involved in just-in-time delivery of goods such as fresh produce, fast parcel deliveries, parts for manufacturing and service, medicines and large groupage loads.

Many companies are now looking at setting up their own ETSF to mitigate potential delays through UK customs. ETSF’s are often located further inland away from the port or frontier.  RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) traffic can exit the port quickly and the customs declarations can be conducted at the ETSF avoiding unnecessary delays.

It can take several months to set up an ETSF so now is the time to act


Descartes Pentant is an approved Community Service Provider (CSP) with an accredited interface to HMRC’s new Customs Declaration Service (CDS) for customs declarations, as well as the previous CHIEF system.

Descartes Pentant will speed up the process of getting your ETSF approved by HMRC by providing an already approved inventory system. 

The Descartes Pentant ETSF solution has been specifically designed for road transport operations into inland temporary storage facilities anywhere in the UK.

The HMRC and Border Force approved Pentant CSP Inventory system delivers control and compliance to your ETSF. By moving your customs clearances away from the congested border to your inland premises, under the same controls, rules and regulations, it brings all operations in-house rather than at remote port clearance sites.

Based on Pentant’s many years of experience, with inventory-linked Ro-Ro movements through the Port of Dover and the Channel Tunnel, the solution provides the same level of detail and granulation required at a truck level for the clearance of goods, but at your own site.

Contact us to discuss e-Customs Software & setting up an ETSF