Council adopts cross-border parcel delivery rules to boost e-commerce
The EU is bolstering e-commerce by making it easier for consumers and businesses to compare different delivery prices across the Union. Regulators will also have increased powers to monitor this complex market. The new rules were adopted today, April, 12, by the Council, following provisional agreement with the European Parliament on 13 December 2017.
“These rules will make information about different parcel delivery options more readily available – including track and trace services, which are important for e-commerce,” said Ivaylo Moskovski, Bulgarian Minister for Transport, Information Technology and Communications. “The adoption of these rules means that another key element of the EU’s digital single market is in place.”
Tariffs published on a website
Under the reform, delivery tariffs will be published on a website, which will help users choose the best rates. Increased transparency should create competitive pressure, bringing down prices that cannot be justified by objective factors. The new rules are expected to be of particular benefit to consumers and small retailers, who do not have the bargaining power to negotiate better rates.
Today’s vote by the Council concludes the legislative procedure at first reading. The European Parliament voted on 13 March 2018. The regulation will be signed by both institutions and published in the EU Official Journal. It will enter into force 20 days after publication. Click here to access the regulation on cross-border parcel delivery services.
