Are gifts subject to EU customs charges?
Gifts can also be subject to customs charges when they’re sent from the UK to the EU.
Under the 2026 changes, gifts valued at less than €45 are not subject to the additional duty described in Evri’s EU customs update. Gifts valued at €45 or more may be subject to additional duty.
It’s still important to provide accurate information about the contents and value of your gift when booking a parcel.
What customs information do I need to provide?
You’ll need to provide accurate details about what you’re sending, including:
- A clear description of the goods
- The value of the goods
- The quantity of each item
- The country of origin where required
- The appropriate HS code
For parcels sent outside the UK, Evri’s booking process provides suggested HS codes based on the description of the goods you enter. You can also search for an HS code manually during the booking process.
What is a HS code?
A HS code is a code used by customs authorities to classify items and goods. HS codes help customs to identify items and determine the appropriate fees.
When you book an international parcel with Evri, you don’t necessarily need to look up the code yourself. Evri’s international booking system gives you HS code suggestions based on the description you enter of your items. You can choose to enter HS codes manually if you prefer.
What is an EORI number?
All businesses that are VAT registered must provide an EORI number when booking international parcel deliveries. The EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) is an identification number which customs will use to identify who has sent their parcels and all their parcels across all EU countries.
You can apply for an EORI number from the links below:
If you are VAT registered, please click here.
If you are not VAT registered, please click here.
How can I avoid delays at customs?
Providing accurate parcel information can help your parcel move through the customs process more smoothly.
Before sending your parcel, make sure:
- Your recipient’s address is correct
- You’ve declared the correct value of your parcel
- Your item descriptions are accurate
- You’ve provided the correct HS codes
- Your customs information is complete
- Your parcel meets Evri’s international sending requirements
Incorrect information can result in your parcel being held at customs, potentially causing delays and additional charges outside of Evri’s control.
What happens if the recipient doesn’t pay the customs charges?
If the recipient does not pay the customs charges, Evri will do its best to return the parcel to the sender.
However, international returns from customs are not guaranteed. Depending on the destination country’s rules, a parcel could potentially be held or disposed of by local authorities.
The original shipping cost cannot be refunded where a parcel is returned because applicable taxes or duties have not been paid. Additional fees may also apply.