EU introduces extra handling fee for orders from Temu, Shein and AliExpress

The European Union will start charging an additional processing fee for online purchases from outside the bloc from 1 November. The measure affects large cross-border retail platforms such as Temu, Shein and AliExpress.

Brussels adopted the so‑called "handling fee" by delegated regulation to help cover the costs borne by customs services in member states. The change is part of a broader customs reform responding to the wave of small parcels arriving daily on the EU market.

How the new charge works

Authorities say the levy is calculated per distinct article inside a delivery, not per parcel. Two identical items in one package count as a single article, while each different product will trigger an additional charge. The fee will also apply to shipments whose value exceeds 150 euros — a threshold that previously triggered standard customs duties but not this extra charge.

Under the new rules, companies that file customs declarations — platforms, sellers or courier firms — are primarily responsible for paying the levy. If sellers choose to pass the cost on, consumers may be billed either at checkout or to the courier before collection.

Officials confirm the handling fee is added on top of existing customs charges that have been applied to deliveries since July. The fee will not be refunded to buyers even when goods are returned or damaged. An exception is made for items that are already located in warehouses within the EU at the time of purchase.

Photo: press material from the event