In a bid to stem the huge influx of cheap imports from companies such as Temu and Shein, the EU is introducing new legislation and fees affecting direct to consumer orders sent from the UK (and all non-EU countries) to EU countries, including the Republic of Ireland but NOT Northern Ireland.
From 3 July, all small parcels under €150 will incur a €3 fee for each product category or HS code. The Harmonized System is a universal numbering code for products. So at Miss Milly, for example, we have:
* imitation jewellery made of base metal
* scarves made with majority cotton
* scarves made with majority synthetic fibres
* handmade leather bags
* handmade leather purses
* keyrings
If you order one leather bag, you will be charged €3. If you order two leather bags, you will be charged €3. If you order one leather bag and one leather purse, you will be charged €6.
We understand that this fee will be charged directly to the recipient when the shipment reaches the destination EU country in the same way as current import duties.
So please be aware of this. We are currently looking at how to add a reminder message about this during the checkout process.
This fee is called the €3 Temporary Customs Duty or EU Small Parcel Levy. It is the first stage of a major multi-tier customs reform due for implementation in 2028.
We absolutely applaud the EU for this move as copycat and cheap products from Alibaba, Temu and Shein are hugely detrimental to small businesses from both copyright and sales perspectives. But it is also another barrier to the UK doing business with its closest neighbours and a continuation of the damage that Brexit has delivered.
Whilst we openly admit that we manufacture in China, we are incredibly proud of our recognisable brand, and the product designs and quality we offer, always striving to be different from our competitors.
5 days ago
