Credits: Rhenus SE & Co. KG
The Rhenus Group is reminding UK exporters to prepare for new EU customs charges on low-value parcels, following changes that took effect on 1 July 2026.
The new rules apply to shipments valued at €150 or less entering the European Union.
Under the revised system, customs authorities now charge a flat €3 fee for each commodity code contained in a shipment. The fee applies to individual parcels and replaces the previous value-based approach for low-value goods.
Rhenus said the changes reflect the rapid growth of e-commerce and aim to create a level playing field between individual parcel shipments and bulk imports. The measures also seek to discourage the undervaluation of goods to qualify for customs exemptions.
The company noted that the new fee will remain in place until at least 1 July 2028. It may be extended until the EU completes its wider customs reform, including the introduction of the EU Customs Data Hub and the removal of the current €150 threshold.
Rhenus warned that the new charging structure could significantly increase costs for high-volume e-commerce exporters.
Rob Mulligan, UK Customs Manager Road at Rhenus Logistics, said businesses must review their shipping profiles and assess the financial impact of the new rules. He added that customs duties still apply even when companies use the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) scheme.
Rhenus recommends that businesses review their EU shipping volumes, evaluate how products are classified, assess how the new duty will affect costs and consider adapting their fulfilment and distribution strategies within Europe.