New EU & National Handling Fees(Upcoming 2026 November)

1.   The European Union is planning to introduce a regulatory EU handling fee for low-value shipments (goods value under €150) imported into the EU.

·         The proposed EU handling fee is €2 per item

·         Expected implementation: November 2026 (exact date and rules are still under discussion)

2.   In addition, some EU countries plan to introduce their own national handling fees earlier, before the EU-wide fee takes effect.

·         Countries currently proposing national handling fees include:
France, Romania, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, and Luxembourg

·         France is expected to implement its national fee starting January 1, 2026

·         National handling fees may vary by country, typically €2–€5 per item or shipment

Important:
These handling fees are mandatory regulatory fees imposed by customs authorities, not charges set by DHL or any shipping carrier.

Further updates will be shared as official details are confirmed.