The European Union has taken a further step towards modernising its customs system. On Monday 21 September, the regulatory reform came into force, with the aim of adapting controls to the growth of e-commerce and improving the management of imports from third countries.

For companies such as Stock Logistic, a freight forwarder and full-service logistics operator, the reform represents a significant change in information management, controls and obligations relating to the entry of goods into the EU.

Stronger control over e-commerce

One of the main changes brought about by this customs reform concerns low-value e-commerce. Third-country platforms that sell directly to EU consumers will now be regarded as importers. As such, they will be required to complete customs formalities, pay the relevant duties and comply with European regulations.

The reform also introduces an administrative fee for small consignments originating from outside the EU. This is due to come into force by 1 November 2026 at the latest. The amount will be set by the European Commission. This fee will be separate from the transitional tariff of €3 that already applies to certain imports worth up to €150 and which will remain in force until July 2028.

The aim is to tackle the significant increase in small parcels entering the European market. In 2025, EU customs authorities processed nearly 6 billion e-commerce parcels, over 90 per cent of which came from China.

A more digital and coordinated European customs system

The reform provides for the creation of the European Union Customs Authority and a new Customs Data Centre. This platform will centralise information on importers and exporters and facilitate risk analysis and the coordination of controls between Member States.

The centre will be mandatory for e-commerce from July 2028 and, subsequently, for all other operators. The ‘Trust and Check’ status is also being introduced – a higher category of trusted operator that will coexist with the current AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) scheme. Companies offering a high level of transparency and compliance will be able to access simplified customs procedures.

At Stock Logistic, as specialists in customs procedures and e-commerce solutions, we help companies manage their international trade operations securely, efficiently and in compliance with regulations.