New rules for e-commerce shipments from outside the EU
The European Union has approved a major reform of the customs system. With this reform, the EU aims to modernise the Customs Union and better respond to the significant growth of e-commerce shipments from countries outside the European Union, such as China. The most important changes for e-commerce will take effect from 1 July 2026.
Background of the reform
The new rules, officially approved in March 2026, follow the rapid growth of e-commerce shipments into Europe. With millions of parcels entering the EU every day, pressure on customs authorities is increasing, along with risks related to fraud, unsafe products and unfair competition.
To improve control, the EU is introducing the central EU Customs Data Hub. This new platform uses advanced data analytics and AI technology to monitor goods flows more efficiently. From 2028 onwards, the Hub will become the mandatory standard for e-commerce shipments, ensuring that data exchange with customs is fully digital.
What will change?
Abolition of the de minimis exemption
From 1 July, the current exemption from import duties for shipments up to €150 will be abolished. This means that import duties will be payable on all purchases from outside the EU, regardless of the value of the shipment.
Introduction of a fixed import tariff (parcel levy)
To keep the handling of small parcels up to €150 manageable, the EU is introducing a transitional measure: a fixed import duty of €3 per product type (HS code). This simplified tariff (commonly referred to as the parcel levy) replaces complex percentage-based calculations per product category, provided the seller is registered in the IOSS system. In addition, an EU-wide handling fee is expected later in 2026 to cover additional customs capacity.
Large platforms become responsible
Major e-commerce platforms such as Temu, Shein and AliExpress will become responsible for collecting and remitting VAT and import duties on sales to European consumers.
What does this mean for you?
The reform of the EU customs system will impact almost every webshop or supplier that sells internationally or ships goods from outside the EU into Europe.
It is therefore important to review in good time which responsibilities your organisation will have under the new regulations. Depending on the sales structure, webshops, suppliers, importers or sales platforms may become responsible for collecting and remitting VAT and import duties.
In addition, the new rules may affect delivery times, fulfilment processes, shipping costs and product pricing. As international platforms face stricter obligations and additional import costs, this also creates opportunities for webshops and brands that already store their stock strategically within Europe.
Given the new per-product-type levy, accurate and detailed product data becomes more important than ever. This includes:
- HS code (commodity code)
- Country of origin
- Correct product values
- Accurate VAT and import data
Incomplete or incorrect data may lead to delays, additional costs or customs blockages.
A professional fulfilment partner
Hexspoor has over 25 years of experience in international shipping and customs clearance. We proactively support you in navigating this new European legislation, so your international ambitions are not delayed.
Curious about the impact of the new EU customs rules on your webshop? Feel free to contact us at mail@hexspoor.nl
