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New EUDR Rules & V5 FAQ

🆓 Get the latest V5 EUDR FAQ scoop. Avoid the bureaucratic madness and keep your supply chain squeaky clean in 2026.

EUDR Version 5: The Bureaucratic Boogie

Summary: The European Commission just dropped the Version 5 FAQs for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Spoiler alert: the timeline holds! Large operators face the music in December 2026, while small guys get until June 2027. We break down the new scope, traceability rules, and why your mass balance approach might be giving authorities a collective headache.

What on Earth is new in EUDR Version 5?

Ah, the European Union (EU) loves a bit of Ordnung (order), and the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) Version 5 FAQs are no exception. The new rules bring clarity to products, processes, and a few minor headaches for supply chain managers.

For starters, we finally know that mass balance chains of custody are basically a no-go for this regulation. Why? Because the rules require you to know exactly which plot of land the commodity came from. If you mix the "clean" stuff with the "mystery" stuff, the authorities are going to have a bad time—and so will you.


EUDR 2027 Explained: Why Missing GPS Data Can Shut Down Your EU Shipments



How do you track down every single tree?

Let's face it: getting your supply chain data together feels a bit like herding cats in a rainstorm while doing your taxes. Here is precisely how to keep your supply chain squeaky clean and compliant without losing your mind:

  • Geolocation and Polygons: For plots over 4 hectares, you need coordinates. Provide latitude and longitude to six decimal places, presented as a polygon. For under 4 hectares, a single point will do (thank goodness for small mercies).

  • Scientific Names: Only required for timber, people! Stop panicking about coffee and palm oil. The EPPO (European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization) Global Database is there if you are feeling extra keen.

  • The 25 MB Rule: Your Due Diligence Statement (DDS) has a 25 MB limit. That means no War and Peace-length documents. Keep it punchy!

Compliance Topic

EUDR Rule

Mass Balance

Not allowed; requires specific plot origin tracking.

Due Diligence Statement Size

Maximum of 25 MB per statement in the system.

Satellite Imagery

Not mandated, but highly recommended for risk assessment.


When does EUDR finally start?

We know you are just dying to know when this all kicks off. The main text of the EUDR is not being changed again, so get your spreadsheets ready for these key dates:

Company Type

Entry into Application Date

Large and Medium-sized Enterprises

30 December 2026

Micro and Small Enterprises (SMEs)

30 June 2027


Large operators will also need to report on their due diligence systems every single year. If you can't get the required information from your supplier, you simply cannot sell the products. It is as simple (and annoying) as that!


Downloads & More Information





How Customs Manager Ltd Can Support You


Expert Consultancy & Advice: Discuss the matters in this blog for your context. Schedule a free 1-hour consultancy call. Book at www.customsmanager.org → Book Expert Call.


Specialized Training: Get training on the European Union Deforestation Regulation with live, on-demand (pre-recorded), and in-house options for you and your team. Visit www.customsmanager.org ⇾ Events to see what’s coming up.


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Information and Updates

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Author: Dr. Arne Mielken | Managing Director at Customs Manager Ltd, Trade Compliance Expert, and Keynote Speaker | Updated: May 2026




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