In recent months, trade tensions between the United States and the European Union have returned to the spotlight, with significant repercussions for European companies exporting overseas. The new global context, marked by the return of protectionist policies by the USA, has reignited the debate on customs duties, particularly on steel, aluminium, and industrial goods. Following a period of relative calm, 2025 marked a turning point: the US administration announced the reintroduction of duties on European metals, reigniting the trade conflict. The European Union hit back with a €26 billion retaliatory move, introducing tariffs on American goods, including important sectors of the economy. In early April 2025, the European Commission proposed a "zero-zero" agreement to abolish duties on industrial goods mutually. However, Washington has not yet given an official response, leaving businesses and operators in a situation of significant uncertainty.
How Customs Duties Work
Customs duties are taxes applied to goods crossing international borders. Their amount varies based on:
- the value of the goods;
- the customs code (HS code);
- bilateral agreements in force between the involved countries.
The Consequences for European E-commerce
Although digital commerce may seem 'intangible', every online order involves the physical shipment of a product. Customs duties directly influence:
- the final cost of products;
- delivery times;
- customer satisfaction.
For e-commerce operators in Europe, this signifies a need to rethink pricing, delivery systems, and customer service strategies. An increase in duties can reduce competitiveness, pushing consumers towards cheaper and faster alternatives. Furthermore, increased customs checks can lead to delays and temporary blockages, creating greater uncertainty — critical factors for e-commerce, where speed is an essential part of the purchasing experience.
Marketplaces and Dropshipping: The Most Exposed
Those operating in dropshipping or selling through global marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, or Etsy are among the most affected. These business models rely on international shipments with already limited margins: the introduction or increase of duties can make them unsustainable. Difficulties include: unexpected customs clearance costs, packages being blocked or returned, greater complexity in returns management.
How to Prepare: Strategies to Face Uncertainty
In order to mitigate the impact of new trade measures, companies must adopt preventive and flexible strategies:
- Constant Regulatory Monitoring: Following official sources like government bodies and Chambers of Commerce to anticipate tariff changes and adapt your operations.
- Supply Chain Review: Investing in warehouses located within the EU or in logistics partners in countries with favorable agreements can reduce exposure to duties. Logistic triangulation is also an effective option to optimize shipments and costs.
- Transparent Communication with Customers: Informing customers in advance about any changes in costs or delivery times helps maintain trust and customer loyalty, preventing complaints or negative reviews.
Face changes with the right support
In such a dynamic context, it is fundamental to rely on expert partners. Mail Boxes Etc. supports businesses, professionals, and e-commerce with:
- personalised customs consultancy;
- complete management of international shipping procedures,
- logistics optimization according to new regulatory scenarios.
Thanks to its extensive network of Business Solutions Centers and a consolidated experience in the market, Mail Boxes Etc. is the ideal partner to overcome customs and logistical challenges.
