What changed on 1 July 2026
The European Commission says a temporary customs duty of EUR 3 applies to items in eligible distance-sale consignments valued at up to EUR 150 imported from outside the EU. The Commission explains that the charge depends on tariff classification rather than the number of physical pieces: five T-shirts in its example incur EUR 3, while a T-shirt and a watch incur EUR 6.
The Commission says the declarant normally pays this duty, with consumers responsible only in limited cases. A seller or marketplace may reflect its costs in the price; check the checkout and carrier notice for the amount you will actually pay. VAT and any handling charges are separate from the duty.
Before placing an order
Check where the goods ship from, the consignment value, whether VAT and import charges are included, and who handles customs. Keep the product description and checkout receipt. Goods already in free circulation in the EU are different from a parcel newly imported from China.
The Commission also discusses a separate handling fee. Its implementation and scope can change, so check the current official guidance instead of adding a presumed fee to every order.
Rules, carrier charges and marketplace terms can change. Check the current requirements for your product and destination before payment.
Read the related buying guide