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The EU now charges duty on small parcels

Since July 1, 2026, a €3 customs duty applies to low-value parcels from outside the EU.

November 2026

The EU introduced a temporary €3 customs duty on low-value parcels from outside the EU on July 1, 2026. It covers goods worth up to €150, mainly e-commerce orders.

How it works

The duty applies per item type, based on tariff classification, and quantity does not matter. The European Commission's example: five T-shirts carry one €3 duty, while three T-shirts and a watch carry €6. The seller or importer declares and pays it during customs clearance.

The flat duty is temporary and is set to apply until July 1, 2028.

What this means for a brand

Shipping low-value orders one by one into Europe now carries a cost per parcel. Brands selling there at volume should compare that with bulk import through a partner who holds stock inside the EU.

Sources: European Commission, €3 customs duty for low-value parcels; Taxation and Customs Union guidance. General information only, not legal advice.

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