June 29, 2026 - Leading international logistics providers including FedEx, DHL and UPS have jointly released compliance reminders targeting Chinese exporters and cross-border merchants, as the European Union's new cross-border tariff reform will formally take effect on July 1, 2026.
The core adjustment of the new policy is the complete cancellation of the long-standing tax exemption for goods valued under €150 imported into EU member states. During the two-year transition period from July 2026 to June 2028, every B2C shipment will be charged a flat tariff of €3, and an extra €2 customs handling fee will be added starting November this year. For B2B bulk cargo, tariffs will still be levied according to corresponding commodity tax rates.
Customs clearance rules also undergo comprehensive upgrades. All shipments bound for EU territories must submit complete manufacturer identification codes, product barcodes and buyer identity information. Simplified centralized customs clearance for low-value goods is no longer allowed for cross-border transfers between EU countries. Customs authorities will implement full document verification, and incomplete declaration materials will directly trigger cargo detention and return.
Industry insiders analyzed that the policy will completely eliminate the cost advantage of small-parcel direct shipping. Platforms such as Temu, SHEIN and AliExpress will be recognized as importers and bear joint tax liability. Many sellers will shift from lightweight direct mail to sea freight forwarder + overseas warehouse stocking models to cut comprehensive logistics and tax costs.
Logistics enterprises remind foreign trade companies to sort out commodity documents in advance, adjust quotation budgets and lock in stable overseas warehouse resources to avoid delivery delays and extra customs fines brought by the new EU tax rules.
