New rules for small parcels are also being developed in Europe.
The measure in the U.S. follows the withdrawal of the exemption that for years allowed small parcels to enter the country without import duties. This enabled American consumers to order cheaply from foreign webshops.
In practice, the new rule means that small shipments will now be treated in the same way as larger import flows. This applies to 'individual' shipments as well. Both commercial parcel services and postal companies must now pay import duties and administrative fees upon arrival in the U.S. This causes delays, higher prices, and uncertainty about the final delivery.
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The result is that dozens of countries no longer accept parcels destined for the U.S. Postal companies do not want to burden their customers with unclear rates or the risk that parcels are held up in the U.S.
The U.S. Postal Service justifies the new rates by arguing that shipments from abroad for years did not contribute to fees per weight or administrative costs that do apply to domestic shippers and mail order companies.
Plans for a tax on the arrival of small packages are also ready in the European Union. Brussels is considering a uniform surcharge of two euros on all imported parcels, regardless of weight or value. This aims to simplify administration and at the same time prevent massive ordering of cheap goods from outside the Union.
Moreover, Brussels wants to ensure that more imported products from non-EU countries are inspected by Customs Services to verify compliance with all EU requirements. This especially concerns rules regarding used raw materials, environment, and safety. Currently, this is hardly done.
The difference between the American measure and the European plans is clear. In the U.S., it concerns an import tax added on top of the value and weight of the parcel, so costs vary greatly per package and shipment method. The European Union, by contrast, opts for a fixed charge of two euros per parcel, keeping extra costs predictable and limited.
The new approach is causing international tensions. Exporting countries fear their products will face more difficulty accessing the American and European markets. For individual consumers, it may mean that online purchasing of products becomes less attractive.