How to move a UK parcel to another European country

How to move a UK parcel to another European country ?

If you’ve thought about shipping to other countries in Europe but need some guidance, we’re here to help.

If you’re an international business or a one-off seller – or you have family and friends in Europe – you’ll need to know the rules around shipping goods to European countries.

And with 43% of all UK exports heading to the EU – and over half of UK imports coming from EU nations – it’s important all shipments meet the guidelines, to avoid delays

Shipping from the UK to EU countries post-Brexit

Since 1st January 2021, parcels to Europe are subject to customs and duty fees. This means that goods shipped between EU countries, UK mainland and Northern Ireland have to clear customs and require a commercial invoice and other export documentation. You also need to apply for an EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number) which is a unique ID that tracks and registers customs information in the EU. You can also refer to the EU Trade Helpdesk as your guide to import rules and taxes in European markets.

Which countries are part of the European Union?

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden

Moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Since Brexit, Northern Ireland has left the European Union and the EU Customs Union along with the rest of the UK. However, Northern Ireland will remain aligned with some aspects of the Single Market policy of the EU, e.g. applying EU law on VAT rules. Whilst a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland does not exist, custom checks will be carried out for shipments moving between the UK and Northern Ireland.

Important information about clearing customs and required export documents

Since 1st January 2021, shipments to EU member states are treated the same way as international shipments and therefore have to clear customs. This means that a commercial invoice and other export documentation are required for every shipment.