Think of Europe like a big neighborhood where most houses follow the same rules. Sure, some neighbors might be a bit stricter about their lawn care, but the basic rules are pretty much the same everywhere. When you send a package from the USA to Europe, you’re not dealing with 27 totally different countries – you’re actually dealing with just a few main rule groups.
The best part? Once you know the rules for one country in a group, you know them for all the others too. No more guessing games or pulling your hair out over different requirements for each destination.
Standard Framework Countries
The Main Group – Same Rules for 16 Countries
Great News – One Set of Rules for All!
All these countries follow the exact same shipping rules. Learn it once, use it everywhere! No need to worry about different requirements for each country.
Value Limits & Taxes
Customs Duty Free Limit
Packages worth €150 or less = No customs duty (but you still pay VAT)
Gift Exemption
Gifts between private people worth €45 or less = No taxes at all
Regular Purchases
Under €150: Pay VAT only (17-27% depending on country)
Over €150: Pay VAT + customs duty (varies by product)
All packages: May have handling fees from post office
Personal Gifts
Under €45: Completely free
€45-€150: VAT only
Over €150: VAT + customs duty
Must be: Between private people, not businesses
Important Changes
Starting in 2028, ALL packages will pay customs duty – even small ones. But the system will be simpler with just 4-5 duty rates for most items.
Electronics & Tech Items
Usually Allowed
- Smartphones (up to 2 per package)
- Laptops and tablets
- Headphones and earbuds
- Cameras and accessories
- Gaming consoles (personal use)
- Smart watches and fitness trackers
Restricted or Banned
- Devices without CE marking
- Jamming devices
- Unlicensed radio transmitters
- Counterfeit electronics
- Devices with banned chemicals
- Large quantities (looks like business)
What You Need to Know
CE Marking: Electronics must have CE marking for EU safety standards
Personal Use: Keep quantities small (1-2 items) to avoid business import rules
Batteries: Some shipping restrictions apply – check with your carrier
Warranties: US warranties may not work in Europe
Electronics Tips
- Always include original packaging and manuals
- Declare exact brand and model (not just “phone”)
- Include purchase receipt for customs value
- Check if device works with European power/networks
Food & Dietary Supplements
Usually Allowed
- Vitamins and minerals (up to 2kg)
- Protein powders (personal use)
- Packaged snacks and candy
- Coffee and tea
- Spices and seasonings
- Canned goods (properly labeled)
Strictly Banned
- Fresh meat and poultry
- Fresh dairy products
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Honey and bee products
- Homemade food items
- Products with CBD/THC
Supplement Restrictions
Dietary supplements must be legally sold in the EU. Some US supplements contain ingredients banned in Europe. Check ingredient lists carefully!
Documentation Required
All Food Items: Must have English ingredient labels
Supplements: Need detailed ingredient list and dosage info
Expiry Dates: Must be clearly marked and not expired
Quantity Limits: Keep to personal use amounts (usually 2-3 months supply)
Beauty & Health Products
Usually Allowed
- Makeup and cosmetics
- Skincare products
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Perfumes and colognes
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Dental care products
Restricted Items
- Prescription medications
- Products with banned chemicals
- Aerosols over 100ml
- Products claiming medical benefits
- Unlabeled homemade products
- Items with mercury or lead
Important Rules
Ingredient Labels: Must be in English with full ingredient list
Quantity Limits: Keep to personal use amounts
Liquids: Check shipping restrictions for liquids over 100ml
Expiry Dates: Must be clearly marked and not expired
Medicine Warning
Most prescription drugs are banned. If you need to send medicine, you’ll need a doctor’s prescription and letter explaining medical necessity. Even then, many won’t be allowed.
Clothing & Textiles
Usually Allowed
- Regular clothing items
- Shoes and accessories
- Bedding and linens
- Bags and purses
- Hats and scarves
- Fabric and sewing materials
Watch Out For
- Counterfeit branded items
- Fur from endangered animals
- Items with lead paint
- Flammable materials
- Items without proper labels
- Large commercial quantities
Labeling Requirements
Care Labels: Must show fabric content and care instructions
Size Labels: European sizes are different from US sizes
Origin Labels: Must show country where item was made
Safety Standards: Children’s clothes need extra safety certifications
Clothing Tips
- Include original tags and labels when possible
- Describe items clearly (not just “clothes”)
- Separate new items from used items in customs forms
- Keep quantities reasonable for personal use
Required Documents
| Document Type | When Required | Details |
|---|---|---|
| CN22 Form | Packages under 2kg and €425 | Simple customs declaration with item descriptions and values |
| CN23 Form | Packages over 2kg or €425 | Detailed customs declaration with more information required |
| Commercial Invoice | Most shipments now | Detailed list of items, values, and sender/recipient info |
| Receipt/Proof of Purchase | High-value items | Shows actual purchase price for customs valuation |
What to Include
- Exact item descriptions (not “electronics”)
- True purchase values in USD
- Country where each item was made
- Reason for shipping (gift, personal use, etc.)
- Complete sender and recipient addresses
Common Mistakes
- Vague descriptions like “miscellaneous”
- Undervaluing items to avoid taxes
- Missing or incorrect HS codes
- Incomplete address information
- Not marking gifts as “GIFT”
Accuracy is Critical
Customs officials can seize packages and fine you up to 100% of the declared value if they find false information. Always be honest about values and descriptions!
Completely Banned Items
Never Send These
- Weapons and ammunition
- Illegal drugs and narcotics
- Counterfeit goods
- Endangered species products
- Hazardous chemicals
- Explosive materials
- Radioactive materials
- Biological samples
Heavily Restricted
- Prescription medications
- Fresh food and plants
- Tobacco products
- Alcohol over small amounts
- Cash and valuable papers
- Lithium batteries (shipping rules)
- Aerosols and pressurized items
- Items over certain value limits
How Customs Checks Work
X-ray Screening: All packages go through x-ray machines
Random Inspections: Some packages opened for physical inspection
Value Verification: High-value items may be researched online
Prohibited Item Detection: Advanced scanning looks for banned materials
Penalties for Banned Items
Sending prohibited items can result in package seizure, heavy fines, and even criminal charges. When in doubt, don’t send it!
Pro Shipping Tips
Packaging Tips
- Use sturdy boxes with good padding
- Keep original product packaging when possible
- Separate different types of items
- Include itemized packing list inside box
- Take photos before sealing the package
Documentation Tips
- Be specific in item descriptions
- Include purchase receipts for expensive items
- Use clear, easy-to-read handwriting
- Keep copies of all customs forms
- Include your phone number for customs contact
Money-Saving Tips
- Split large orders into multiple smaller packages under €150
- Use IOSS system when available to pre-pay VAT
- Mark genuine gifts clearly to use €45 exemption
- Consider timing – avoid peak seasons for faster processing
- Compare shipping carriers for best rates and service
Speed Tips
- Use express carriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) for faster customs
- Fill out all forms completely and accurately
- Avoid shipping during EU holidays
- Include recipient’s phone number for delivery
- Track packages and respond to customs requests quickly
Final Reminder
These rules apply to all 16 countries in this group. Once you learn these rules, you can ship confidently to any of these destinations using the same process!
Pan-European (EU & EFTA) Rules
- Harmonized Customs Union: All EU member states (plus EFTA: Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein) use the Single Administrative Document (SAD) for customs clearance
Priority Framework Countries
Same Base Rules + Special Requirements
Same as Standard Countries
€150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, same prohibited items list, identical VAT rules
Germany’s Special Rules
Extra Strict Documentation: German customs (Zoll) reviews every detail very carefully
Personal Appearance: May require you to come to customs office for packages over €1,000
Gift Verification: Very strict about proving gifts are between private individuals
Electronics Focus: Extra attention on electronics compliance and CE marking
Same as Standard Countries
€150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, same prohibited items list, identical VAT rules
France’s Special Rules
Electronics Documents: May require additional safety certificates for electronics
DELTA System: Uses special electronic customs system with extra requirements
Tobacco Limits: Temporarily stricter tobacco import limits until July 2025
Cultural Items: Extra scrutiny for artwork and cultural goods
Same as Standard Countries
€150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, same prohibited items list, identical VAT rules
Italy’s Special Rules
Cultural Heritage: Special documentation required for artwork and antiques
Food Products: Extra strict on food labeling and ingredient requirements
Luxury Goods: Enhanced scrutiny for designer items and luxury products
Regional Variations: Some differences for Vatican City and San Marino shipments
Same as Standard Countries
€150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, same prohibited items list, identical VAT rules
Poland’s Special Rules
Food Content Rules: Much stricter requirements for food product contents and labeling
Pharmaceutical Controls: Enhanced screening through Chief Pharmaceutical Inspectorate
PUESC System: Uses Tax and Customs Electronic Services Portal with specific requirements
Language Requirements: Some documents may need Polish translation
Same as Standard Countries
€150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, same prohibited items list, identical VAT rules
Spain’s Special Rules
Category Fees: Charges separate fees for specific categories of goods (€23.22 document fee)
DUA System: Uses Unique Administrative Document system with specific formatting
Digital Certificates: Can reduce fees with Spanish digital certificates
Canary Islands: Different rules apply to Canary Islands (outside EU customs area)
Quick Overview
Same Basic Rules as Standard Countries
All five countries use the same €150 duty-free and €45 gift thresholds
Germany – Documentation King
Extremely strict on paperwork accuracy. Every detail matters. May require personal appearance for high-value items.
France – Electronics Focus
Extra requirements for electronics safety certificates. Uses DELTA electronic system with additional steps.
Italy – Cultural Guardian
Special rules for artwork and cultural items. Enhanced luxury goods screening. Regional variations exist.
Poland – Food Strict
Much stricter food content requirements. Enhanced pharmaceutical controls. May need Polish translations.
Spain – Fee Collector
Charges separate category fees (€23.22). Different rules for Canary Islands. Digital certificates can reduce costs.
Key Difference from Standard Countries
These countries follow all the same base rules but add their own special requirements on top. You need to know both the standard EU rules AND each country’s extras.
Electronics – Country Differences
Germany
- Must have CE marking clearly visible
- Requires German safety documentation for some items
- Very strict on counterfeit detection
- May test devices at customs
France
- Additional safety certificates may be required
- DELTA system requires extra electronic documentation
- Enhanced deforestation compliance checks
- Special screening for high-tech items
Italy
- Standard EU requirements apply
- Extra attention to luxury electronics
- Enhanced brand verification
- Regional customs may have different procedures
Poland
- PUESC system requires detailed electronic info
- Some documentation may need Polish translation
- Enhanced security screening
- Standard EU rules otherwise
Spain Special
Spain charges €23.22 document processing fee for electronics. This can be reduced with Spanish digital certificates. Canary Islands have different import procedures entirely.
Food & Supplements – Country Differences
Poland – Most Strict
- Much stricter ingredient content rules
- Enhanced pharmaceutical inspectorate checks
- Detailed nutritional information required
- Some supplements banned that are OK elsewhere
- May require Polish language labeling
Italy – Label Focused
- Extra strict on food labeling requirements
- Enhanced ingredient verification
- Special attention to traditional food products
- Regional health authority involvement
Poland Food Warning
Poland has the strictest food and supplement rules in the EU. Many US supplements that are fine for other EU countries may be rejected in Poland. Always check ingredients against Polish regulations.
Extra Documentation by Country
Germany – Documentation King
- Extremely detailed item descriptions required
- May require personal customs office visit for €1000+ items
- Gift verification must be very thorough
- All original purchase receipts and certificates
France – DELTA System
- Electronic customs system requires extra data
- Additional safety certificates for electronics
- Enhanced deforestation compliance docs
- Special cultural item documentation
Country-Specific Tips
Germany Tips
- Triple-check all documentation for accuracy
- Include all original certificates and manuals
- Be prepared for possible customs office visit
- Keep gifts clearly marked and documented
France Tips
- Prepare additional safety docs for electronics
- Use DELTA system properly for faster processing
- Check deforestation compliance for certain products
- Be extra careful with cultural items
Poland Tips
- Double-check food and supplement ingredients
- Consider Polish translations for key documents
- Use PUESC system correctly
- Allow extra time for pharmaceutical checks
Italy Tips
- Extra documentation for artwork and antiques
- Be careful with luxury brand items
- Check regional customs variations
- Enhanced food labeling requirements
Spain Tips
- Factor in €23.22 processing fees
- Consider getting Spanish digital certificate
- Canary Islands have different rules entirely
- Use DUA system formatting correctly
Remember
All these countries follow the same basic EU rules as the Standard Framework Countries, but with these extra requirements on top. Learn both sets of rules for success!
- IOSS (Import One‑Stop‑Shop): For shipments under €150, sellers can register for IOSS to collect VAT at checkout—avoiding fees/handling at customs
Higher Threshold Countries
Same Rules + Higher Duty-Free Limits
Higher Duty-Free Threshold
Much higher than the standard €150 – save more money on customs duties!
Everything Else Same as Standard
€45 gift exemption, same prohibited items, identical documentation, same VAT rules
Transport-Based Thresholds
Air & Sea: €430 duty-free
Land Transport: €300 duty-free
Everything Else Same as Standard
€45 gift exemption, same prohibited items, identical documentation, same VAT rules
Swedish Krona Threshold
Approximately €170 equivalent – slightly higher than standard €150
Everything Else Same as Standard
€45 gift exemption, same prohibited items, identical documentation, same VAT rules
Duty-Free Threshold Comparison
| Country | Duty-Free Threshold | Transport Method | Savings vs Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netherlands |
€430 | All methods | €280 more duty-free |
| Estonia |
€430 / €300 | Air & Sea / Land | €280 or €150 more |
| Sweden |
~€170 | All methods | €20 more duty-free |
| Standard Countries | €150 | All methods | Base comparison |
Netherlands – Best Deal
€430 duty-free threshold
Nearly 3x higher than standard countries. Great for electronics, clothing, and higher-value items.
Estonia – Transport Matters
€430 air/sea, €300 land
Choose air or sea shipping for maximum savings. Land shipping still better than standard.
How Much You Save
Real Money Examples
$500 Electronics Package:
• Standard Countries: Pay customs duty + VAT
• Netherlands: Pay VAT only (save ~€50-80 in duties)
• Estonia: Pay VAT only (save ~€50-80 in duties)
Sweet Spot for Savings
Items in this range benefit most from higher thresholds
Identical Rules (Except Thresholds)
100% Same as Standard Framework Countries
These countries follow exactly the same rules as the 16 Standard Framework Countries, just with higher duty-free thresholds
Same Documentation
- CN22/CN23 forms required
- Commercial invoices needed
- Same item description requirements
- Identical customs procedures
Same Prohibited Items
- Weapons and dangerous goods
- Fresh food and meat products
- Counterfeit branded items
- Prescription medications
Smart Shipping Strategies
Netherlands Strategy
- Perfect for high-value electronics and designer items
- Combine multiple items up to €430 in one package
- Great for camera gear, gaming systems, luxury items
- Use this destination for your most expensive shipments
Estonia Strategy
- Choose air or sea shipping for €430 threshold
- Avoid land transport if package is €300-430
- Perfect backup option when Netherlands isn’t available
- Consider shipping method in your planning
Package Splitting Strategy
Smart Approach: Instead of splitting packages to stay under €150 (standard countries), you can send larger consolidated packages to these countries and save on shipping costs while still avoiding duties.
Nordic & Special Territory Countries
Unique Rules & Special Considerations
NOT in EU Customs Union
Norway is EEA member but has separate customs rules. Much stricter than EU countries!
Norway’s Special Rules
Very Low Threshold: Only ~€18 duty-free!
High Taxes: 25% VAT + customs duties
Strict Controls: Even small packages get taxed
NOT in EU Customs Union
Iceland is EEA member but has separate customs rules. Different from EU!
Iceland’s Special Rules
Medium Threshold: ~€40 duty-free
High VAT: 24% VAT rate
Alcohol/Tobacco: Extremely strict restrictions
NOT in EU at All
Switzerland has completely separate customs system. Very different rules!
Switzerland’s Special Rules
Low Threshold: ~€60 duty-free
Complex System: Different rates for different items
Expensive: High processing fees and taxes
Same as Standard EU Countries
€150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, standard EU rules
Cyprus Special Notes
Island Delays: Longer shipping times due to location
Northern Cyprus: Different rules for Turkish-controlled area
Military Items: Extra restrictions due to UN buffer zone
Same as Standard EU Countries
€150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, standard EU rules
Malta Special Notes
Island Delays: Longer shipping times due to location
Size Limits: Restrictions on large packages due to small size
Language: Maltese and English official languages
Nordic & Special Territory Overview
Norway – Most Expensive
200 NOK (~€18) threshold
Extremely low duty-free limit. High taxes on everything. Avoid for expensive items.
Iceland – Medium Strict
6,000 ISK (~€40) threshold
Better than Norway but still strict. Very tough on alcohol and tobacco.
Switzerland – Complex
65 CHF (~€60) threshold
Completely different system. High processing fees. Complex rules.
Cyprus – Standard EU
€150 threshold (EU rules)
Follows standard EU rules but longer shipping times due to island location.
Malta – Standard EU
€150 threshold (EU rules)
Standard EU rules but package size restrictions due to small country size.
Critical Distinction
EU Countries: Cyprus, Malta (follow standard EU rules)
Non-EU Countries: Norway, Iceland, Switzerland (completely different rules)
Non-EU Countries – Different Rules
Important: These Are NOT EU Countries
Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland are not in the EU customs union. They have completely different shipping rules from all previous groups!
Norway Specifics
- Only 200 NOK (~€18) duty-free
- 25% VAT on almost everything
- High customs duties (up to 25%)
- Processing fees on all packages
- Very strict food restrictions
Iceland Specifics
- 6,000 ISK (~€40) duty-free
- 24% VAT rate
- Moderate customs duties
- Strict alcohol/tobacco rules
- Limited food imports allowed
Switzerland Specifics
- 65 CHF (~€60) duty-free threshold
- 7.7% VAT plus customs duties
- High processing fees (up to 30 CHF)
- Complex duty calculation system
- Different rates for different product categories
- Requires detailed customs declarations
Non-EU Shipping Strategy
- Keep packages very small and low-value
- Expect high taxes and fees on everything
- Consider if shipping is worth the cost
- Use express carriers for better customs handling
- Always declare accurate values – penalties are severe
Island Nations – Special Considerations
Cyprus & Malta Follow Standard EU Rules
Both countries use €150 duty-free threshold, €45 gift exemption, and all standard EU prohibited items lists
Cyprus Challenges
- Longer shipping times (7-14 days extra)
- Limited carrier options
- Northern Cyprus has different rules
- Military/security items heavily restricted
- Some carriers don’t deliver to all areas
Malta Challenges
- Package size restrictions (country is tiny!)
- Longer shipping times due to limited flights
- Higher shipping costs due to island location
- Limited local postal infrastructure
- Some large items may be rejected
Island Shipping Tips
- Allow extra time for delivery (add 1-2 weeks)
- Use tracked shipping methods
- Keep packages reasonably sized
- Confirm delivery address accessibility
- Consider higher shipping costs in your budget
Good News for Islands
Cyprus and Malta use standard EU thresholds – much better than Nordic countries!
Critical Warnings
Don’t Confuse EU with Non-EU!
This is the biggest mistake people make. Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland are NOT in the EU and have completely different rules from all other European countries.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming Norway follows EU rules (it doesn’t!)
- Thinking Iceland has €150 threshold (it’s €40!)
- Not budgeting for Switzerland’s high fees
- Sending restricted items to Nordic countries
- Not checking island delivery restrictions
Cost Warnings
- Norway: Can cost 50%+ of item value in taxes
- Iceland: 24% VAT plus duties on most items
- Switzerland: High processing fees plus duties
- Islands: Higher shipping costs due to location
- All: Express shipping often required
When NOT to Ship
