Germany's BPEX warns against flat-rate EU parcel fee
As the EU discusses a flat-rate parcel fee for shipments from non-EU countries, Marten Bosselmann, chair of Germany’s parcel and express association BPEX, has voiced concerns.
He welcomed efforts to strengthen customs controls and ensure fair competition, but warned that blanket fees could disrupt efficient parcel supply chains and burden logistics firms with additional costs and responsibilities.
“Measures must address concrete problems like customs fraud, not create new trade barriers,” Bosselmann said. A standardised EU-wide approach is essential to avoid market distortion. Any changes must be proportionate, with clear processes, functioning digital systems, and adequate transition periods.
BPEX supports holding e-commerce platforms accountable for non-compliant goods but rejects measures that shift state duties onto logistics firms. The sector enables cross-border trade and should remain a reliable partner for customs and security authorities.