Store and Customs Clearance Area (MEAD)
Customs-approved facility where goods are stored awaiting customs clearance.
Store and Customs Clearance Area (MEAD)
A MEAD is a space approved by the customs administration, generally located near a port, airport or train station, where goods are deposited and kept awaiting customs clearance.
Types
- Customs clearance store: covered and closed space
- Customs clearance area: open space (for bulky goods, containers)
Operation
When the goods arrive in the customs territory, they are transported to an approved MEAD. They remain there under customs surveillance (temporary storage status) until a customs declaration is filed and release granted.
Operator
The MEAD operator is responsible for guarding the goods, maintaining stock records, making the goods available for customs inspections and ensuring the security of the installations.
Length of stay
The goods cannot remain in MEAD beyond the temporary storage periods: 90 days for sea freight, 45 days for other modes.
Fees
The operator charges a warehousing fee to the owner of the goods. These fees generally increase with length of stay, creating an incentive to clear customs quickly.