Online shopping is about to become more expensive in Ireland – here’s what you need to know

A new EU charge will increase the costs of online shopping for Irish customers.

A new €3 customs duty will apply to small parcels coming into the European Union, in an attempt to tackle the increase in cheap imports coming from online retailers like Shein or Temu.

What will this mean for Irish shoppers?

This is a small change, but it could make a noticeable difference to the way we shop online in Ireland.

Starting next month, on July 1st, a new customs duty will apply to packages valued at less than €150 coming into the country from outside the EU. This will include deliveries from the UK, China and the United States.

The amount doesn't sound like a lot, however, it's not just €3 per parcel. Revenue has confirmed that the extra fees will apply to every separate item in a package.

For example, a delivery containing three different items will now cost €9 extra in tax. However, if the items are identical, you will only be charged €3.

This payment can be completed in two ways. Some stores might collect it while you check out, and if they don't, you will have to pay the charge to the courier before delivery. This could cause unexpected costs and delivery delays after making an online order.

The new charge will also make returning products more complicated. The customs duty will not be refunded during a return unless the product is faulty, according to Revenue.

Why is the EU charging this fee?

This customs charge is part of a wider European response to help decrease the amount of cheap imports from online platforms like Shein.

The European Commission warned that many of the products coming from these retailers do not comply with EU rules and create health and safety risks for consumers in the area.

The charge aims to increase product safety and ensure that Irish and EU retailers are competing on a level playing field.