From 1 July 2026, something fundamental changes for everyone selling products from outside the European Union into Europe. The EU Council has decided to introduce a fixed customs duty of €3 per package for all shipments valued under €150 originating from third countries.
📅 Effective date: 1 July 2026 — Fixed customs duty of €3 per package for shipments under €150 from outside the EU.
What exactly is changing?
Currently, shipments from outside the EU with a value below €150 are exempt from customs duties (though VAT already applies via IOSS). From 1 July 2026, this exemption disappears. Every package — regardless of value — will be subject to a fixed duty of €3.
Who is affected?
This regulation primarily hits brands that ship directly from Asia or the US to European consumers (so-called cross-border e-commerce). Think of brands selling via:
- Their own webshop with direct shipping (DTC)
- Marketplaces such as Amazon, bol.com or Zalando
- Social commerce channels like TikTok Shop
What is the financial impact?
For a parcel worth €25 (common in fashion, accessories or consumer electronics), the margin impact is significant. The €3 duty represents 12% of the product value — before platform fees or shipping costs.
The solution: stock in Europe
The most effective response is pre-shipping to a European warehouse. Once your stock is in an EU fulfilment centre, all orders are shipped from within the EU — and the customs duty no longer applies.
This is exactly what Crossello arranges via its 3PL network in the Netherlands and Germany. From there, we handle fulfilment for bol.com, Amazon, and your own webshop.
What should you do now?
Start exploring European 3PL options before 1 July 2026. Brands that act early secure the best locations and rates. Those who wait until July will face higher costs and potential stockouts.