Overview
- The new charge took effect on Sunday, November 1, 2026 and adds to a €3 small‑parcel duty that Brussels introduced on July 1 for low‑value distance sales.
- The €2 amount is applied per customs category of items in a parcel so multiple categories multiply the payment rather than being charged once per package.
- Under the reform platforms, third‑party sellers or their EU representatives are the importer of record and legally liable to pay the new charges even though companies may pass the cost to shoppers.
- The earlier July duty coincided with a reported 60–64% drop in recorded small‑parcel flows into the EU and firms are already adjusting prices, raising basket values or moving stock into EU warehouses to avoid the charges.
- The measures are meant to fund tougher controls and protect consumers and industry; the €2 charge will be reviewed every two years, the €3 duty will end in July 2028, and reduced transit fees for specialised warehouses start from July 2028.