International Postal Services Halt Certain U.S. Shipments Following End of De Minimis Exemption

U.S. Customs Policy Change

• End of "de minimis" exemption: The U.S. has permanently eliminated the "de minimis" exemption, which previously allowed items valued under $800 to be imported without duties. This change is effective immediately and follows an executive order from President Trump aimed at closing loopholes related to tariff evasion and drug trafficking.

• Transition period: A six-month transition period has been established, allowing postal shippers to pay a flat duty per package as they adjust to the new customs requirements.

Impact on Global Postal Services

• DHL Group's response: DHL has implemented temporary restrictions on business shipments to the U.S. due to uncertainties regarding customs duties and data requirements, although its premium service remains operational.

• Posten Bring's suspension: Norway's Posten Bring paused parcel shipments to the U.S. on August 20, citing a lack of clarity on how U.S. customs will enforce the new rules.

• PostNord's halt: The Swedish-Danish owned PostNord temporarily stopped shipments to the U.S. on August 20, indicating insufficient time to adapt to the new regulations.

• La Poste's actions: France's La Poste suspended standard business parcel shipments to the U.S. on August 22 but continues to ship individual gift parcels valued under $100.

• Austrian Post's challenges: Austrian Post announced a halt to U.S. parcel shipments effective August 26, highlighting significant challenges for global postal services, while still allowing gifts under $100 to be sent.

• Japan Post's limitations: Japan Post suspended the acceptance of certain postal items on August 25, citing unclear compliance procedures, though the Japanese Economy Minister noted the limited impact on users due to alternative shipping options.

• Australia Post's temporary suspension: Australia Post temporarily halted parcel shipments to the U.S. on August 26 and is collaborating with authorities to resume services, with concerns raised about the impact on small Australian businesses facing a 10% tariff on exports like sustainable clothing and cosmetics.