Where they get low-value shipments to the European Union
From information published by European Commission and quoted by Reuters, it follows that the vast majority of consignments of low value imported into the EU come from China. This is the consequence of the improvement of cross-border sales by non-European platforms based on a very low unit price of the product and shipping straight to the consumer.
The import scale accelerated especially in 2025. According to the Commission, the number of specified packages increased by 26% compared to the erstwhile year. Experts point out that part of this increase is overtaking and is the sellers' consequence to the announcement of abolishing a customs exemption for consignments of little than EUR 150.
An additional origin was the U.S. trade policy return. Following the withdrawal in 2024 of duty-free import possibilities for parcels worth up to $800, part of exports from Asia were redirected to Europe.
Where the influx of inexpensive packages is cumulative in the EU
Although the European Commission does not print a full breakdown of volumes by country, customs data and observations by logistics operators indicate that the highest volume of imports of low value shipments concerns countries which are the main points of entry of goods into the EU.
These are primarily countries with large logistics hubs and airports serving cross-border e-commerce. There are millions of individual packages that are then distributed to consumers throughout the Union. This creates an uneven burden on customs administrations and logistics infrastructure across countries.
Why the import structure accelerated the fee decision
The fast increase in parcels and their geographical concentration were 1 of the key arguments for speeding up customs reform. It was initially planned to introduce low-value shipments charges since 2028, but in 2025 it was decided to postpone the deadline to 2026.
As of 1 July 2026, any abroad shipment of low value will be subject to a fixed fee of EUR 3 per unit. This is intended to reduce the mass inflow of inexpensive packages, improve import control and reduce force on the countries serving the largest volume of clearance. From a European e-commerce perspective, it is besides a step towards a more level playing field between EU sellers and non-Community consignors.
Read the article: Logistics e-commerce 2026. Delivery, returns and CX as a real competitive advantage?
FAQ. Directions for importing low value consignments
- Which country does most low value shipments in the EU come from?
According to the European Commission, China is the dominant destination. - Are all EU countries equally burdened with imports?
Nope. The largest volumes go to countries that are the main points of logistics entry into the EU. - Why did the number of packages increase so fast in 2025?
Growth is due to the announcement of customs improvement in the EU and the redirection of parts of exports from Asia following changes in US policy. - Will the fee of EUR 3 change import directions?
It may reduce the most massive imports of ultra-cost products, but it will not completely destruct cross-border sales outside the EU.
