New European packaging rules (PPWR): what does this mean for you in practice?

As of August 12, 2026, an EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC) must be available for every packaging type placed on the EU market, supported by technical documentation. If this documentation is missing, it can lead to enforcement measures by market supervisors, including sales bans, withdrawal from the market, and administrative sanctions. Operational disruptions in the supply chain may also occur. Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste (the PPWR) entered into force on February 11, 2025, and will apply from August 12, 2026, with some requirements being phased in until 2030. If your company places packaged goods on the EU market, your packaging must comply with the PPWR, even when packaging or logistics activities are outsourced. You are responsible for ensuring your packaging complies with the PPWR. Roles and responsibilities One company can have multiple roles, and each role brings its own obligations: Documentation and compliance from 2026 From August 12, 2026, all packaging placed on the EU market must be supported by a Declaration of Conformity. In this Declaration of Conformity, the packaging is described and assessed using supporting technical documentation. In principle, one declaration is required per type of packaging. Similar packaging, such as different sizes using the same materials, can be grouped together as long as this does not affect conformity. Companies must also ensure that packaging continues to comply with the rules and update documentation when changes occur. Transport packaging Transport packaging falls fully under the PPWR. This includes pallets, pallet collars, film, strapping materials, and e-commerce packaging. In principle, transport packaging falls entirely under the PPWR and must also meet the relevant requirements. Depending on the type of packaging, specific obligations and exceptions may apply. A Declaration of Conformity must be available for every packaging type. Similar packaging can be grouped within a single conformity assessment under certain conditions, provided that conformity is not affected. Transitional rules Packaging lawfully placed on the EU market before August 12, 2026, may remain in use without being recalled or modified. For reusable packaging, an earlier deadline applies, namely February 11, 2025. What should you do now? To be well-prepared for the PPWR, timely action is important. We advise you to: Impact on your organization The PPWR affects logistical and operational processes. Packaging requirements regarding documentation, traceability, and reporting are increasing. In the future, regulations will become even stricter, requiring packaging volume and empty space to be reduced as well. Legal responsibility for compliance with these regulations remains with the customer. Van der Helm can provide support in optimizing packaging processes. Timely preparation is essential to comply with the regulations and prevent business disruptions.

Van der Helm Logistics invests in the future with a new 100,000 m² distribution center in Moerdijk

DEN HOORN, June 23, 2026 – Van der Helm Logistics is taking a major step in its further growth and development with the realization of a new distribution center of approximately 100,000 m² at Logistiek Park Moerdijk. With this investment, the family business creates room for further growth, scalability, and innovation, while simultaneously laying the foundation for the logistics services of the future. The new distribution center enables the consolidation of warehouse activities from Den Hoorn and part of Moerdijk at one central location. This creates space for further growth, innovation, and scalability. While warehouse activities are consolidated in Moerdijk, ocean freight, air freight, and customs activities will remain based in Den Hoorn. The warehouse and office in Hoofddorp will also remain operational. “The logistics market is changing rapidly. Customers demand scalability, flexibility, digital integrations, and security in their supply chain,” says Gerard van der Helm. “With this investment, we are not only creating extra capacity but also building a logistics platform that will allow us to support our customers for decades to come.” The choice for Moerdijk aligns with the strategic location, offering direct connections to the most important logistics corridors in the Netherlands and Europe. Additionally, the region provides access to a strong labor market and excellent multimodal connections via road, water, and rail. The distribution center is being developed according to the latest standards in logistics, safety, and sustainability. The warehouse will have a clear height of 15.4 meters, feature 104 loading docks, and be built to BREEAM Excellent standards. Furthermore, the building will be prepared for further automation, AI applications, energy-efficient installations, charging infrastructure, and large-scale use of solar energy. The warehouse will also be equipped according to high TAPA-A security standards. Moving warehouse activities to Moerdijk frees up extra space in Den Hoorn. This space offers opportunities for the further development of Trofipack and other future activities at the location.The location also offers significant advantages in terms of staffing. Thanks to the proximity of housing locations, Van der Helm has extra flexibility to handle peaks in personnel demand and ensure operational continuity. “This development goes beyond extra square meters,” Van der Helm continues. “We are investing in a future-proof logistics environment where technology, capacity, sustainability, and service come together. This strengthens our position as a logistics partner for customers both domestically and abroad.” Completion of the distribution center is scheduled for late 2026. The relocation of existing warehouse activities will take place in phases to ensure the continuity of service for customers. This development marks a special milestone for Van der Helm Logistics, which will also celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2026. The investment underscores the family business’s confidence in the future of the logistics sector and its ambition to continue growing as a strategic logistics partner. About Van der Helm Logistics Van der Helm Logistics is a family business with a history dating back to 1936. From locations in Den Hoorn, Hoofddorp, and Moerdijk, the company offers integrated logistics solutions in warehousing, transport, forwarding, customs, and fulfillment. With a strong focus on innovation, customer orientation, and long-term partnerships, Van der Helm supports customers worldwide.

No national handling fee for e-commerce shipments in the Netherlands

The Netherlands will not introduce a national handling fee for e-commerce shipments. The State Secretary for Finance announced this on Friday, June 12, 2026. This means there will be no additional national levy for the time being, on top of the European measures taking effect from July 1, 2026. At the end of 2025, there was still talk of a possible national levy for e-commerce shipments. Other European countries, including France and Belgium, also considered similar measures. The logistics sector criticized the short implementation period and the risk of disrupting the level playing field within the European Union. For companies that process many e-commerce shipments or ship to EU consumers, the decision provides more clarity. The Netherlands is now waiting for the broader European approach regarding the abolition of the so-called de minimis exemption. What will change as of July 1, 2026? Although the Netherlands is not introducing a national handling fee, things will certainly change for e-commerce shipments from outside the European Union starting July 1, 2026. From that date, the de minimis exemption will be abolished. This exemption made it possible to bring shipments with a value of up to €150 into the EU under certain conditions without import duties. With the expiration of this exemption, e-commerce shipments up to €150 will face a standard fee of €3 per declaration line. This means that costs per package will not always be the same. If a shipment consists of multiple declaration lines or product categories, the total fee per shipment can increase. For companies with high volumes, this can have a noticeable impact on total import costs. How is the €3 fee settled? The €3 per declaration line is not collected via the webshop. This is an important difference compared to, for example, IOSS declarations, where VAT payment can be handled through the sales environment. The fee is collected by the service provider at the time of customs clearance. In practice, this means that costs are settled as “cash against documents.” This is done via a deposit with the service provider, based on the number of declaration lines processed per month. It is therefore important for companies to have a clear understanding of the number of declaration lines they process monthly. Not only the number of packages counts, but also the structure of the shipments and the way products are declared. European handling fee expected from November 2026 In addition to the €3 fee per declaration line, a European handling fee is also expected starting November 1, 2026. This will likely be around €2 per shipment. The goal of this European approach is to have more e-commerce shipments transported to Europe together by container. This should make it easier for Customs to monitor the significantly grown flow of goods consisting of small packages from countries outside the EU. The growth of international e-commerce has led to a significant increase in the number of individual shipments in recent years. For customs authorities, this brings extra pressure regarding inspection, processing, and enforcement. By allowing shipments to enter Europe in a more bundled manner, this process should become more manageable. What does this mean for e-commerce companies? For e-commerce companies, fulfillment providers, and importers, it is important to prepare for the new situation. Even without a national handling fee, the costs and processes surrounding import shipments will change as of July 1, 2026. Especially for low order values, a fixed fee per declaration line can weigh relatively heavily. An additional cost of €3 or more per shipment can influence pricing, profitability, and the choice of certain logistics routes. More focus on bundling and correct declaration The new rules make correct customs data even more important. Think of accurate goods descriptions, HS codes, values, origin, and the number of declaration lines per shipment. Errors or ambiguities can lead to delays, extra costs, or additional inspections. In addition, it becomes more relevant for companies to look at the way goods enter Europe. Individual package flows from countries outside the EU may become more expensive and administratively burdensome due to the new levies. Bundled import flows can, in some cases, offer more oversight and efficiency. Preparing for July 1, 2026 The most important conclusion is that the Netherlands will not introduce an additional national handling fee for e-commerce shipments. This removes some of the uncertainty. At the same time, the European change as of July 1, 2026, remains in place. From that moment, a standard fee of €3 per declaration line applies to e-commerce shipments up to €150. A European handling fee of approximately €2 is expected to follow from November 1, 2026. For companies dependent on international e-commerce shipments, now is the time to review processes, volumes, and cost structures. By gaining insight into declaration lines, product data, and import flows now, you can avoid surprises when the new rules take effect.

December logistics update — Navigating holiday demand and upcoming EU changes

Dear partner,  The coming months bring important changes for international supply chains, all while the December peak season is in full swing. As holiday demand pushing logistics networks to their limits, it’s more important than ever to stay ahead of regulatory shifts. In this update, we explain what the EUDR will mean for your sourcing, we outline France’s decision to end limited fiscal representation under Regime 42, and share how our customs team is preparing for the future. The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) will take effect on 30 December 2025 We would like to inform you about new EU legislation that will affect the import and export of certain commodities: the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR – Regulation (EU) 2023/1115).The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) will take effect on 30 December 2025, introducing strict requirements to ensure that key commodities and products are proven deforestation-free. Larger companies must comply from day one, while smaller businesses may receive extended timelines. In our blog, we break down what this means for your sourcing and supply chain. Curious how to prepare in time? Learn more about EUDR Regime 42 for non-EU companies From 1 January 2026, France will abolish limited fiscal representation under Regime 42 for non-EU companies, eliminating the option to defer import VAT. This change may increase administrative requirements and affect cash flow for businesses importing into France. The Netherlands will continue to offer this arrangement, providing a more favourable alternative for VAT handling. Companies relying on Regime 42 should review their EU entry strategy and prepare for the shift. Get in touch with your account manager Team update On 11 November, our customs team completed an export training, ensuring we stay fully up to date and future-ready. Fulfillment Centres in E-Commerce Logistics A fulfillment center is a specialized facility that stores your inventory, and from there handles the full order flow: receiving, picking, packing, shipping, and even returns. In our blog we explain how such a centre simplifies logistics and lets you focus on growing your business instead of managing warehousing. Curious what that means for your operations and scalability? Learn more about E-commerce logistics Happy Holidays from Van der Helm We also want to wish everyone a warm and joyful holiday season, while we work hard this month to ensure all logistics run smoothly and every delivery arrives on time.

CBAM Obligations from January 1, 2026

The final phase of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will come into effect as of January 1st, 2026. This means that importers of CBAM goods (iron, steel, aluminium, cement, fertiliser, electricity and hydrogen) within the EU, will be forced to deal with new reporting and payment obligations. As your direct representative, Van der Helm would like to inform you in a timely manner about what will change and what you need to prepare for. This will ensure that your shipments will not come to a standstill at the border on 1 January.

European Parliament Approves CBAM Simplifications

On September 10, 2025, the European Parliament approved a simplification of the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) regulation. This mechanism requires importers to pay a levy from January 1, 2026, to compensate for CO2 emissions released during the production of iron, steel, aluminum, and cement, among others. The approval of the new rules includes several important changes: The simplification aims to improve CBAM’s feasibility without compromising its objective: creating a level playing field between European and non-European producers regarding CO2 costs. Now that the European Parliament has approved, only the Council of the European Union (with representatives from member states) needs to agree. This decision is expected later this month. At Van der Helm, we closely monitor these developments. This way, you’re always informed about changes affecting your import flows, and we ensure your logistics remain compliant with European regulations.

Inland Shipping under Pressure Due to Congestion in Rotterdam and Antwerp: Impact Felt throughout the Entire Logistics Chain

Inland shipping is experiencing significant delays in the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp. This is partly due to congestion in deep-sea shipping, causing inland vessels to sometimes wait for days before they can be loaded. Average waiting times are reaching up to 64 hours in Rotterdam and even 78 hours in Antwerp. The financial impact is substantial. WEC Lines, a Dutch shipping company, indicates that the current situation is costing the company over six hundred thousand euros per month. Other carriers, such as Contargo and Inland Terminals Group, also report that the waiting times result in less available capacity and higher costs in the chain. The delays have multiple causes: irregular arrivals since the COVID-19 pandemic, rerouting due to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, deployment of larger ships, low water levels on the Rhine, and changed collaborations between major shipping companies like Maersk and MSC. Additionally, according to shippers’ organization Evofenedex, there is “unfair priority” given to seagoing vessels, which they claim hinders sustainable goods flow. The port authorities of Rotterdam and Antwerp acknowledge the issues and emphasize that other Western European ports are experiencing similar congestion. According to them, there has been insufficient investment in infrastructure and capacity, further increasing pressure on inland shipping. At Van der Helm, we are closely monitoring these developments. The reliability and flow in the chain are under pressure, affecting everyone in logistics. Clear communication, smart planning, and flexibility are more important than ever in this situation. Want to know more about how we safely and efficiently organize your container flows?Check out our services in container transport.

Thinking ahead in the e-commerce supply chain

With the exponential growth of e-commerce worldwide, logistics companies are more crucial than ever to trade between continents. Van der Helm Logistics has closely followed these dynamics and plays an essential role in facilitating the smooth transit of goods both within Europe and beyond. Need for efficient logistics solutions The increase in online orders, especially from Chinese online shops, has led to an explosive growth in the number of packages shipped to Europe. As a result, the logistics sector is facing new challenges. Customs regulations are being tightened, and at the same time the demand for efficient and reliable transport solutions is increasing. Van der Helm Logistics anticipates these changes by continuously investing in technology and infrastructure to improve both the capacity and speed of the logistics chain. With an extensive network of partners and our own distribution centers, we are well positioned to adapt our clients’ needs to this dynamic market. Navigating new customs rules With the possible introduction of new European customs regulations, we are ready to support our customers in meeting all requirements. We understand that changing regulations can impact the cost and delivery speed of goods, which is why we offer proactive solutions. Our specialized customs services ensure that every package is processed correctly and efficiently, minimizing delays and additional costs. Innovation in freight transportation The increasing tightness in cargo capacity, especially during peak seasons, requires innovative approaches. Van der Helm Logistics continues to invest in multimodal transport solutions to relieve pressure on airports. By using alternative routes and transportation methods, such as rail and ocean freight, we ensure that our clients’ goods always arrive on time, even during times of air cargo capacity constraints. Forward-looking strategies for growing e-commerce The e-commerce revolution is far from over, and Van der Helm Logistics continues to adapt to the changing market. We continue to strive to optimize our supply chain services to meet growing demand while complying with the strictest European regulations. Our focus on customer-focused solutions and our commitment to remain at the forefront of logistics innovation make us the ideal partner for companies looking to take advantage of the growing e-commerce market, without the worry of logistics challenges and changing regulations. Together with our customers, we look forward to a future where efficiency and regulatory compliance go hand in hand, and where we continue to contribute to smooth global trade.