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OUR GOAL
To provide an A-to-Z e-commerce logistics solution that would complete Amazon fulfillment network in the European Union.
The Regulatory Storm Hitting E-commerce in 2026
2026 brings the biggest wave of regulatory changes for online sellers since GDPR. EU customs reform, carbon border taxes, stricter product liability, and platform transparency rules will add costs, complexity, and compliance burdens—especially for sellers sourcing from China or selling cross-border.
Ignore them → fines, seized shipments, or account suspensions. Prepare now → protect margins and stay competitive.
This guide covers the top changes, their real impact on sellers, and actionable steps.
EU Customs Reform: End of €150 Duty Exemption
What Changes
From early-mid 2026: Removal of €150 customs duty exemption for low-value imports from non-EU countries. All parcels now subject to duties + potential handling fees.
Impact on Sellers
- Higher landed costs (even on $20 items)
- More customs delays
- Temporary mechanism for duty collection starting 2026 (full system 2028)
Sellers shipping direct from China to EU customers face the biggest hit—up to 20% extra on low-value goods.
Action Steps
- Switch to EU consolidation (Poland hubs) for intra-EU duty-free movement
- Price in duties or raise minimum order values
- Use DDP shipping where possible
CBAM: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism Goes Live
What Changes
From January 2026: Importers pay for embedded carbon emissions on covered goods (cement, iron/steel, aluminum, fertilizers, electricity, hydrogen—expanding later).
Impact on Sellers
- Higher costs for carbon-intensive products/supply chains
- Reporting obligations on emissions data from suppliers
- Potential expansion to more categories by 2030
Direct impact limited now, but indirect (steel in electronics packaging) adds up.
Action Steps
- Request emissions data from suppliers
- Shift to low-carbon alternatives where possible
- Factor CBAM into 2026 sourcing decisions
Digital Services Act (DSA): More Traceability for Marketplaces
What Changes
Full enforcement continues: Online marketplaces must verify sellers, trace products, and remove illegal goods faster.
Impact on Sellers
- More KYC checks on platforms
- Random product checks possible
- Higher accountability for non-compliant listings
Amazon/eBay already tightening seller verification.
Action Steps
- Ensure accurate product data and compliance certificates
- Respond faster to platform notices
- Use authorized EU representatives if needed
New EU Product Liability Directive
What Changes
Transposed by December 2026: Easier for consumers to sue over defective products, including software/digital elements.
Impact on Sellers
- Broader liability (importers, fulfillment providers, marketplaces in some cases)
- Covers “substantial modifications” post-sale
Higher risk for electronics, toys, health products.
Action Steps
- Review insurance coverage
- Strengthen supplier quality agreements
- Document compliance thoroughly
US: INFORM Consumers Act Enforcement Ramps Up
What Changes
Ongoing: Marketplaces must verify high-volume sellers and disclose info to combat counterfeits.
Impact on Sellers
- More documentation required on Amazon/Walmart/eBay
- Potential suspensions for non-compliance
Action Steps
- Provide accurate bank/tax info when requested
- Keep records updated
Amazon-Specific Changes Tied to Regulations
- FBA Prep Services End Jan 1, 2026: Sellers/3PLs handle all prep/labeling
- Commingling Ends March 31, 2026: No more mixed inventory → traceability boost (regulatory pressure)
Action Steps
- Partner with certified prep centers
- Switch to seller-specific labeling
How These Changes Affect Your Bottom Line
| Change | Estimated Cost Impact | Who Hit Hardest |
|---|---|---|
| End €150 Exemption + Duties | +5–20% on low-value imports | China → EU direct shippers |
| CBAM | +2–10% on covered materials | Heavy industry suppliers |
| DSA Traceability | Higher verification time/fees | Marketplace-only sellers |
| Product Liability | Increased insurance/legal risk | Electronics/toys/health brands |
| Amazon Prep/Commingling End | +$0.50–$2/unit prep costs | High-volume FBA users |
Combined: Many cross-border sellers face 8–25% higher costs if unprepared.
Preparation Checklist for 2026
- Audit Supply Chain → Identify CBAM-covered materials and low-value shipments
- Update Compliance Docs → HS codes, certificates of origin, emissions data
- Choose Partners Wisely → Forwarders/brokers experienced in new rules
- Review Insurance → Product liability coverage
- Test New Flows → EU consolidation or local warehousing
- Monitor Platforms → Amazon/Walmart policy updates
Conclusion
2026 regulatory changes aren’t optional—they’re the new cost of doing business in e-commerce.
EU customs reform and CBAM hit importers hardest. DSA and product liability raise the bar on compliance. Amazon’s operational shifts align with global traceability push.
The sellers who adapt early—shifting to regional fulfillment, vetting suppliers rigorously, and building compliance into operations—will gain advantage as competitors scramble.
Start your audit today. One delayed container or suspended account in 2026 could erase a year’s profit.
Compliance isn’t a burden—it’s your competitive edge in a regulated future.
Need a logistics partner who understands the importance of getting every detail right? Contact FLEX..
