As a small business owner, shipping worldwide has always been a source of joy and pride for me. I love knowing my creations find homes across the globe, including the beautiful regions of Europe and Northern Ireland. However, starting December 10th, I’ll need to temporarily pause shipping to these areas.
Why, you ask? It’s all about safety—specifically, changes to the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), which governs how products are sold within Europe and Northern Ireland. While the GPSR’s aim is to protect consumers with updated safety standards and product compliance requirements, it’s proving to be a complex challenge for micro-businesses like mine.
What’s Changing with the GPSR?
The new rules place an increased emphasis on product traceability, labelling, and ensuring that all goods meet stringent safety criteria. While these are excellent steps toward safer shopping, implementing the required changes involves navigating legalities, paperwork, and supply chain adjustments—all of which can be daunting for a small, independent seller.
Why Does This Impact My Shop?
To comply with the GPSR, businesses must ensure products meet specific standards before they can enter European markets. For a micro-business like mine, meeting these standards involves:
- Understanding the new rules in detail.
- Adjusting product documentation and packaging.
- Potentially working with representatives in Europe.
This process takes time and resources. As much as I want to continue shipping without interruption, I need to hit pause to sort everything out.
What’s Next?
Here’s the plan:
- Temporary Closure: From December 10th, I’ll no longer ship to Europe or Northern Ireland.
- Behind-the-Scenes Work: During this time, I’ll be doing everything possible to make my shop compliant with the new regulations.
- Reopening ASAP: As soon as I’ve navigated the requirements, shipping will reopen to these regions.
Why It Matters to Me
Shipping worldwide has always been a key part of my business. I deeply value my customers in Europe and Northern Ireland, and I’m committed to finding a solution. This isn’t just about logistics; it’s about continuing to bring my products to the people who love them.
A Message to My European and Northern Irish Customers
Thank you for your understanding and support during this transition. I’m working hard to ensure that this pause is only temporary. Your enthusiasm for my shop inspires me every day, and I’m eager to resume shipping to you as soon as I can.
In the meantime, my shop remains open for all other regions, and I’ll keep you updated on my progress. Stay tuned, and thank you for being part of my journey!
With love and gratitude,
Ferne
