EU Small Parcel Levy Information

The European Union is introducing a new Small Parcel Levy on low-value goods imported into EU member states from outside the EU.

From 1st July 2026, an additional €3 charge will apply to qualifying parcels entering the EU. A further handling fee is also expected to be introduced later in the year as part of wider EU customs reforms.

What does this mean for Unique Magazines customers?

We have updated our EU pricing to include these additional charges.

This means:

• There will be no unexpected charges upon delivery for orders placed through Unique Magazines.

• The cost of the levy has already been included within the price shown on our website.

• Orders already placed before these changes were introduced are covered by us and will not receive any additional charges.

Why have subscription prices increased?

Magazine subscriptions are dispatched issue-by-issue as each new edition is published.

As the levy applies to each shipment entering the EU, the charge must be applied to every issue sent within a subscription rather than once at the point of purchase.

For example:

• A monthly subscription containing 12 issues will incur the levy on each of the 12 shipments.

• A weekly subscription will incur the levy on each issue dispatched throughout the subscription period.

To ensure customers are not faced with additional customs charges when their magazines arrive, we have incorporated these costs into our pricing upfront.

What is changing?

Current guidance indicates:

• The EU will remove the €150 duty-free threshold for low-value imports.

• An additional €3 charge will apply per HS code, per parcel entering the EU.

• The classification of goods will be based on the first six digits of the HS code.

• These changes form part of wider EU customs reforms due to be implemented by 2028.

As the legislation is still evolving, further guidance is expected from the EU and we will continue to monitor developments closely.

Should any significant changes be announced, we will update this page accordingly.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

 

 

New USA Import Rules – What You Need to Know

 As of 29th August 2025, the United States has removed the $800 de minimis exemption for imported goods. This means all goods entering the USA may now be subject to duty.

What Does This Mean for Your Magazine Orders?

• Printed Matter (e.g., standard magazines without attached gifts) is currently exempt from US duty and tax.
• Non-Printed Matter (magazines that include free gifts, toys, crafting extras, etc.) is now subject to a 10% duty.

Already Placed an Order?

Don’t worry — all existing USA orders in our system will be upgraded to a Tracked Delivery Duty Paid service. This ensures:

• No additional cost to you
• Smooth delivery without delays
• For any non-printed matter orders, Unique Magazines will cover the 10% duty on your behalf.

Placing a New Order?

• Ordering Printed Matter?
  No additional charges apply at this time. This may change only if the printed matter exemption is removed in future legislation.
• Ordering Non-Printed Matter?
  You will be charged an additional 10% at checkout to cover US duty. This will be prepaid to ensure your order continues to ship smoothly.

 

Please note: There may be some initial delays as the US Postal Service adjusts to the new regulations. If you experience any issues with your delivery, our customer service team is here to help – just email enquiries@uniquemagazines.co.uk and we’ll be happy to assist.

 

 

Navigating VAT Rules for European Deliveries

As of 1st July 2021, changes to EU VAT regulations affect how Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied to imported goods. The previous exemption for goods valued under €22 has been removed, meaning VAT is now charged on all orders delivered to the EU from our website.

Making It Easy for You with IOSS

Simplified Ordering Process
Unique Magazines is registered with the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS), streamlining your shopping experience. We calculate and collect the VAT due on your order at checkout, so you won’t face any surprise charges on delivery.

Seamless Delivery

• Digital Customs Declaration: Each order includes a digital customs declaration with our IOSS number, confirming VAT has already been paid.
• Clear Labelling: Our IOSS number is also printed on the dispatch label to help speed your parcel through customs with no additional costs.

Understanding Your VAT Rates

 

VAT is charged at the rate applicable in the destination country. Here's a summary of VAT rates across the EU:

Country	Vat Rate
Austria	10
Belgium	6
Bulgaria	20
Croatia	13
Cyprus	5
Czech Republic	10
Denmark	0
Estonia	9
Finland	10
France	2.1
Germany	7
Greece	6
Hungary	5
Ireland	9
Italy	4
Latvia	12
Lithuania	5
Luxembourg	3
Malta	5
Netherlands	9
Norway	25
Poland	23
Portugal	6
Romania	5
Slovakia	20
Slovenia	9.5
Spain	4
Sweden	6

 

Italy

 

The Italian Government have introduced a customs handling fee of €2 to all parcels customs cleared in Italy with a value equal to or below €150, this will need to be paid by the recipient. This is effective from 01/01/26 and will apply regardless if the shipment is covered by IOSS or not. Items not cleared in Italy will remain unaffected.

 

Romania

 Romania have introduced a customs handling fee of 25 RON (around €5) for parcels under €150 effective from 01/01/26 which will need to be paid by the recipient. 

 

We're Here to Help

We always aim to provide the best experience possible. If you're ever asked to pay unexpected VAT or duty, please get in touch with us right away. We're committed to resolving any issues promptly and ensuring your experience with Unique Magazines remains hassle-free.