An order placed in October may be declared for import in November. Check the rules expected at the customs stage rather than relying only on the checkout date. Two changes deserve attention: the Union handling fee and product identifiers in ecommerce import declarations.
This is a preparation guide checked on 16 October 2026. It does not confirm how a particular Shopogolic route will collect the fee. Obtain the applicable procedure and cost before dispatch.
The expected €2 Union handling fee
The European Commission’s reform page announces a €2 fee from 1 November. Dutch Customs’ latest explanation still describes that start date as expected. It specifies €2 per declaration line for qualifying ecommerce imports, including consignments over €150. Recheck commencement before shipping.
It is separate from the €3 duty, VAT and a carrier’s own clearance charges. Do not turn those figures into a universal ‘€5 per parcel’ quote. Ask the declarant how many chargeable lines are involved and how each amount appears in the estimate.
Product information becomes more specific
From 1 November 2026, covered ecommerce declarations require product identifiers. Dutch Customs distinguishes the seller’s M-PID, the manufacturer’s non-standard NS-PID and a standardised S-PID where available. Its product identifier explanation sets out the requirement.
For the buyer, the useful step is to preserve the exact product reference, model, size or variant and any manufacturer code shown. An order number identifies the transaction; do not assume it identifies every product within it.
What to save from the retailer
Keep an invoice showing the purchased items, quantities, prices and currency. Save the product page or order details that distinguish variants. If the invoice uses only an abbreviated description, ask the retailer for clearer product information while the order is still easy to trace.
Do not invent a barcode or copy a code from a similar-looking item. Ask the declarant what information is missing and obtain it from the seller or manufacturer. A screenshot can support an enquiry but does not automatically replace required documents.
Check the transaction and delivery route
These measures concern imports meeting the relevant ecommerce conditions. An independently arranged forwarding purchase needs its own assessment. Ask who submits the declaration, which information they need and whether costs are collected from the sender or recipient.
Before comparing delivery options, check current shipping restrictions. New identifiers do not make a restricted product acceptable and do not guarantee customs release.
Prepare one consistent parcel record
Match the warehouse orders to the final contents before dispatch. Make sure quantities, product references and invoices agree. Use the packed dimensions and weight in the parcel delivery calculator, and keep transport costs separate from import charges.
Send unresolved questions to our support team with the product links, warehouse and EU destination. Confirm requirements before paying for a service that depends on them. Recheck the requirements if your parcel will be declared after the announced start date.
Rules checked on 16 October 2026. Recheck the applicable rules before dispatch.
