SHIPPING GUIDE

Winning global trade in uncertain times

What’s changing and why it matters

One major shift is happening with EU import rules. Today, the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) helps businesses manage VAT for low-value goods under €150. In the not too distant future, even low-value shipments will require full customs clearance. That’s a big change.

Understandibly, many businesses aren’t ready. If you're relying on simplified setups or haven’t classified your goods correctly, you could face delays, extra costs, or unhappy customers.

It’s not just about compliance. It’s about trust. Nordic shoppers expect clear pricing and no surprises. If they get hit with unexpected duties or fees, they’re likely to cancel.

Demand is high but so are expectations

Despite these changes, the Nordic region remains one of the most open e-commerce markets in Europe. 73 percent of consumers bought something from abroad in the last year. But these shoppers are picky.

• 68 percent say a clear return policy is important.
• 77 percent want to choose how and where they receive their parcels.

That means businesses need logistics setups that are not only compliant but also fast, flexible, and consumer-friendly.

Building resilience in uncertain times

Today, resilience means preparing for all eventualities and being very customer focused. This means you might have to look into adding fulfillment closer to the customer, flexible routes and multiple entry points into Europe. That’s why Poland and Travemünde, Germany are such important parts of the PostNord network. They give businesses options to keep delivery times short and costs under control.

We’re also seeing growing cost sensitivity across markets. Price is now a top-three factor in every Nordic country. That’s pushing more businesses to re-evaluate their logistics setups to find smarter, more scalable ways to deliver.

A survival guide for what’s ahead

To stay competitive and compliant, here’s what I recommend every global seller does now:

• Prepare for EU customs reform
  Read up on the new import rules. Starting in 2028, all parcels imported into the EU, regardless of value, will require full customs clearance. Start adjusting your processes now. Read more here
• Use multiple entry hubs
  Relying on one port or country is risky. Entry points like Nordic airports (CPH – Copenhagen airport, BLL – Billund airport, MMX Malmö airport, OSL – Oslo airport and HEL– Helsinki airport) PostNord sites in Poland and Germany help you stay flexible and avoid delays to your Nordic destinations.
• Get your product data in order
  Ensure correct classification and HS codes. This speeds up customs clearance and prevents errors.
• Focus on customer experience
  No hidden costs. Use DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) or DTP (Duties & Taxes Paid) models so customers know what they’re paying upfront.
• Work with trusted partners
  Partners who understand the Nordic market can help you adjust quickly when regulations or supply chains shift.
• Understand your market
  Look at what others are doing, where they fulfill, and how they deliver. Consolidation in places like Poland is becoming increasingly popular to manage cost.

Final thoughts

Uncertainty isn’t going away, but with the right strategy, it doesn’t have to stop your growth. By preparing for new customs rules, building flexible logistics, and staying close to your customers, you’ll be ready for what’s next.

At PostNord, we’ve built our network to support businesses like yours every step of the way.

Watch the full webinar “Winning global trade in uncertain times” on demand to learn more about how global brands are preparing for what’s ahead.