EU Customs/Import Regulation Changes - July 2026Updated a few seconds ago

As of July 1st, 2026, the European Union will be making changes to their import regulations. 

In the past, a €150 value threshold was in place for imported goods. Orders below that amount were not subject to extra duty/fees. They will be ending the De Minimis Threshold, and parcels valued at €150 or less can no longer enter the EU duty-free.

The EU will be implementing new charges, based on items, that may be collected by local authorities upon import. 

This will be a €3 per item flat rate on orders entering the EU. 

This will be in addition to any IOSS VAT already paid at checkout. These fees are government-imposed charges and are separate from OwlCrate’s shipping fees and general VAT. Unfortunately, OwlCrate is unable to refund any extra charges caused by these new processes.

Our team is actively looking into potential solutions to try to minimize the impact on our EU shipments and customers. We will be sure to share any solutions and/or changes as they arise.

Please note: The landscape of EU customs is continuously evolving. The details outlined in this article are provided for informational purposes only and are subject to change. Be sure to check with your local authorities for the most updated and accurate information.

Important Points:

• End of De Minimis Threshold: Parcels valued at €150 or less can no longer enter the EU duty-free.
• Flat €3 Customs Duty: A flat €3 duty applies per item (per unique tariff classification) for e-commerce shipments sent to consumers.
• The "Per Item" Definition: The duty is charged per declaration line, meaning goods sharing the same tariff classification, description, and origin are grouped together as one item. If a parcel contains multiple different items, the €3 charge multiplies accordingly (e.g., three distinct products = €9)

References:
EU Customs Reform article
Guidance and legal text on temporary flat fee on low-value imports which will apply until 1 July 2028 article