EU to introduce €2 handling fee on parcels from outside the EU

The European Union will introduce a €2 handling fee for parcels imported from countries outside the EU from November 1. The measure is outlined in a European Commission document. Online retailers and shipping companies will be responsible for paying the fee.

Addressing the growing volume of low-cost parcels 

The EU is introducing the charge as part of its efforts to address the growing volume of low-cost parcels entering the bloc. The €2 handling fee will come in addition to the flat €3 customs duty introduced under the EU customs reform for small consignments worth up to €150. Unlike the flat customs duty, however, the handling fee will also apply to shipments valued at more than €150.

Around six billion parcels from online retailers

According to EU member states, European customs authorities processed around six billion parcels from online retailers last year, 90% of which were shipped from China. Many of these shipments enter the EU via Liège Airport. The fee is intended to cover the rising costs associated with the growing number of small consignments, including inspection and control procedures upon import.

The responsibility for paying the fee lies with online marketplaces and shipping retailers acting as registered importers, rather than directly with consumers. However, platforms may indirectly pass the costs on to customers through product prices or shipping fees.

Source: www.commission.europa.eu