Price transparency cross-border parcel delivery

Want to order something from across the border? Soon you’ll know exactly what the delivery costs are. A new European law will obligate parcel delivery companies to make their tariffs for domestic and cross-border parcel delivery known.

A smiling delivery man wearing a cap holds two cardboard boxes, one on his shoulder and the other in his hand, conveying readiness and friendliness.

Excessive transportation costs

The reason for this new legislation is the excessively high shipping costs for cross-border parcel delivery. These can be up to five times higher than for a domestic delivery, even when distances are comparable. The high prices are a considerable barrier for consumers and entrepreneurs wanting to sell and buy cross-border goods.

New legislation benefits

Consumers and entrepreneurs can soon compare rates on a website established by the European Commission. This should lead to more competition and lower prices in the transport sector. In addition, the legislation makes sure that:

  • Parcel delivery companies are transparent about the supply conditions;
  • Member states can set rates if the costs are “unreasonably” high;
  • National consumer authorities get more power.