Etsy becomes first online marketplace to offer Royal Mail’s new EU delivery services

Etsy has become the first online marketplace to offer Royal Mail’s new postal delivery duties paid (PDDP) service to send to the European Union, following new customs requirements that came into effect on 1 July.

Royal Mail has launched the solution in response to the new EU customs regime, which on 1 July introduced a flat €3 customs duty on most business-to-consumer parcels valued under €150 entering the EU from outside the bloc.

The service enables duties to be calculated and paid when postage is purchased, providing a smoother experience for customers receiving parcels in Europe and helping them to avoid unexpected charges.

PDDP services are now available directly on the Etsy platform for all sellers.

For consumers and small businesses, such as Etsy Sellers:

• Postage can be purchased directly through the Etsy platform.
• Duties are calculated and collected at the point of buying postage.
• There is a £1 handling fee per parcel (50p for Ireland) to cover the additional costs associated with providing clearance services into the EU.

Iain Johnson, Managing Director for International at Royal Mail, said: “We’re committed to helping UK businesses continue trading with customers across Europe. Our new service makes it easier for sellers to navigate the latest customs changes by collecting duties upfront and helping avoid delays or unexpected charges for customers. Exporting to the EU remains a significant opportunity for UK businesses, and we’re pleased to be working with partners like Etsy to help sellers reach European customers with confidence.”

Roman Sobieri, Head of Global Shipping at Etsy, said: “Cross-border selling is one of the biggest opportunities for Etsy’s creative entrepreneurs, and navigating customs changes shouldn’t be a barrier. Our partnership with Royal Mail makes that easier. With duties calculated and paid directly on the Etsy platform at the point of postage, UK sellers can keep reaching buyers across Europe with confidence, and buyers get a seamless experience without unexpected charges at the door.”