Under the new customs regulations enacted by the European Union, new procedures have been implemented effective July 1, 2026, for e-commerce shipments valued at less than 150 euros entering the European Union.
The new regulation covers e-commerce shipments sent from countries outside the European Union to EU member states. With the implementation of this regulation, new rules regarding customs procedures and processing fees have come into effect.
What Has Changed Under the New Regulation?
According to the published regulation, for e-commerce shipments valued at less than 150 euros sent from countries outside the European Union to EU member states, a flat customs processing fee of 3 euros will be applied for each HS Code (GTIP) declared on the package.
If a shipment contains more than one different HS code, the processing fee will be calculated separately for each HS code.
For this reason, it is important to classify product information correctly and declare HS codes in full during the shipment preparation process.
How Will the Customs Processes Work?
When shipments reach the European Union’s customs borders, customs procedures are carried out by the relevant carrier and the European Union customs authorities.
In this context, the following may occur:
- Customs collections,
- Declaration fees,
- Transaction fees,
- Operating costs,
- Service fees may be reflected in the relevant shipments.
Senders are advised to take any potential additional costs into account when planning their shipments.
Is the IOSS System Still in Use?
Yes. The Import One Stop Shop (IOSS) system is still in use.
IOSS is a system that enables the management of VAT declarations for certain e-commerce shipments sent to the European Union through a single platform.
However, the fixed customs processing fee of 3 euros per HS code, which will be applied under the new regulation that has entered into force, is considered separately from the IOSS program. Therefore, processing fees may also be applied to shipments made under the IOSS program in accordance with the new regulation.
What Should You Keep in Mind When Preparing a Shipment?
In accordance with the new regulations, businesses shipping to the European Union are advised to pay attention to the following:
The accurate and complete declaration of the HS codes for the products,
- Keeping product information up to date,
- Planning shipping costs in light of the new policy,
- Taking into account any additional processing and service fees that may arise during customs procedures,
- Monitoring current European Union customs practices.
At PTS, We Are Closely Monitoring the Process
At PTS, we closely monitor the customs regulations and implementation processes that have come into effect in the European Union.
We will continue to share up-to-date information with our customers regarding developments and costs that may affect our operational processes.
To get detailed information about the new policy or to request support regarding your shipments, please contact your account representative or the PTS team.
