Customs is preparing for the possible introduction of a national handling fee for e-commerce shipments from outside the EU. A development that at first glance raises questions, but mainly offers opportunities for a fairer, more transparent, and future-proof e-commerce landscape.

More oversight, fewer disruptions in the chain

The handling fee is intended to better control the sharply increased flow of e-commerce shipments. This fee allows Customs to invest in extra capacity, modern scanning techniques, and smart applications such as AI. This ensures faster and more targeted checks, fewer delays, and a more reliable flow of goods.

For e-commerce companies, this means more predictability in the supply chain and fewer surprises during customs clearance. Especially in a market where speed and reliability make the difference, this is an important advantage.

Fair playing field for European entrepreneurs

The handling fee applies to e-commerce shipments with a value below €150 that are delivered directly to consumers in the EU from countries outside the EU. This allows Customs to address structural bottlenecks, such as incorrect customs values and products that do not comply with European regulations.

This prevents unfair competition and protects entrepreneurs who do have their logistics and compliance in order. The result is a more level playing field in which quality, service, and reliability are once again leading.

Clarity and simplicity in implementation

The fee is €2 per declaration line and is invoiced monthly in arrears. No additional security needs to be provided, and the handling fee is not included in the customs value. Also, no VAT is charged on it. This keeps the scheme clear and manageable for companies that process large volumes daily.

Step towards European harmonization

The national handling fee is a temporary measure in the run-up to the European handling fee, which is expected to be introduced in November 2026. Once this European regulation is in force, the national variant will lapse. This means that companies are preparing for one uniform approach within Europe, which in the long term will ensure more peace and consistency in international e-commerce logistics.

What does this mean for your logistics?

For growing e-commerce companies, now is the time to further professionalize processes related to declaration, data quality, and fulfillment. With the right logistics partner, you ensure that declarations are correct, costs remain transparent, and your customers continue to benefit from fast and reliable deliveries.

At Van der Helm Logistics, we are happy to help you with this. With our experience in international e-commerce logistics, customs processes, and scalable fulfillment solutions, we help you to be prepared for these and future changes.

Want to know more about how we make your e-commerce logistics future-proof? Check out our solutions for e-fulfilment.