New regulations, same rules: private packages from the U.S. to the EU remain unchanged

In recent days, there has been a lot of information circulating about new customs rules for shipments coming from outside the European Union. As a result, many customers have started to wonder whether sending packages from the USA to Poland and other EU countries is still possible and cost-effective.

We would like to reassure our customers: packages from the USA can still be shipped to European Union countries with confidence. The new regulations do not prohibit private shipments, gifts, or personal belongings from being sent.

The changes primarily apply to e-commerce shipments, meaning online purchases shipped from outside the European Union. This mainly concerns goods purchased directly from sales platforms, online stores, and marketplaces operating outside the EU.

This distinction is very important. A private package, a gift from family or friends, or personal belongings are not treated in the same way as a typical online store order. These types of shipments can still be sent to EU countries, provided they are properly described, declared, and compliant with the applicable customs regulations.

For Polonez Shopping customers, purchasing from the USA remains possible. We make every effort to ensure that shipments are prepared in accordance with current regulations and, where the nature of the package allows, may be sent as gifts. This helps our customers continue shopping in the USA without unnecessary stress or concerns caused by alarming media headlines.

It is worth noting, however, that the new rule for e-commerce shipments is only seemingly simple. It is not a single fee applied to the entire package, but rather a charge of EUR 3 for each customs item listed in the customs declaration. A customs item refers to a group of products of the same type, classified according to customs regulations.

For gifts sent from one private individual to another, separate rules apply. It is important that the package is occasional in nature, intended for the recipient’s personal use, and not connected with a sale or payment.

For this reason, we encourage our customers not to give up on shipping because of media headlines. The new regulations are aimed mainly at the e-commerce market, not at regular family packages, gifts, or personal belongings sent from the USA to loved ones in Europe.

To avoid unnecessary issues during customs clearance, it is important to follow a few basic rules: describe the contents of the package accurately, provide the actual value of the items, and clearly indicate the nature of the shipment, such as a gift, personal belongings, or a private package.

Our team assists customers with the proper preparation of packages and shipping documents. This allows each shipment to reach its recipient smoothly, without unnecessary stress or misunderstandings.

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