Overview
- The €2 'Union Handling Fee' took effect on Sunday, November 1, 2026, and is levied per customs product category.
- For many low‑value shipments (up to €150) the new fee stacks on the €3 fixed duty introduced on July 1, 2026, producing a typical combined charge of €5 per category.
- The fee applies based on the physical origin of the parcel, not the seller's platform, so goods shipped from outside the EU face the surcharge while intra‑EU shipments do not.
- Consumer groups warn small, mixed orders will be hit hardest and advise buyers to check final prices, keep invoices and request a fee breakdown if couriers demand extra payment; return and refund rights remain unchanged.
- Brussels says the measure will help fund customs checks to fight fraud and improve safety as officials grapple with billions of low‑value items entering the bloc each year.