On 11 October 2026, it was confirmed that the new EU Customs Code will introduce a €2 handling fee per customs item for all parcels imported from outside the EU, effective 1 November 2026. This fee applies to each individual customs line item within a shipment, meaning a parcel containing multiple products will incur multiple fees. The measure aims to cover administrative costs of customs processing for the surge in low-value e-commerce consignments. It will directly affect consumers and businesses importing goods from non-EU countries.
Key Takeaways
- Per-Item Fee Structure: Each customs declaration line attracts a €2 fee, not each parcel, significantly increasing costs for multi-item orders.
- Impact on E-Commerce: Cross-border e-commerce businesses must factor this fee into pricing and shipping strategies for EU customers.
- Administrative Burden: The fee adds to the existing VAT and customs duty obligations, further complicating low-value import compliance.
Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.
Source: Read Official Announcement