Global Postal Services Suspend U.S. Deliveries Amid New Import Duties

International postal services are suspending shipments to the United States in response to new import duties set to take effect on August 29, 2025. This follows President Donald Trump's executive order ending the "de minimis" exemption, which previously allowed goods valued up to $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. The exemption's removal aims to combat deceptive shipping practices and the influx of illicit materials.

Postal operators in countries including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, France, Austria, and the United Kingdom have announced temporary halts on parcel shipments to the U.S., citing a lack of clarity on the new customs procedures. For instance, France's La Poste stated that the U.S. did not provide full details or sufficient time to prepare for the new requirements. Similarly, New Zealand's postal service indicated that parcel deliveries to all U.S. states and territories would be "temporarily unavailable until further notice" while systems are updated to meet new U.S. customs requirements.

The policy change is expected to significantly impact global e-commerce, particularly affecting platforms like Shein and Temu, which have benefited from the de minimis exemption. Between 2015 and 2024, the volume of de minimis shipments to the U.S. increased tenfold, from 134 million to over 1.36 billion. The White House cited concerns over the exploitation of the exemption, leading to the smuggling of illicit drugs and other contraband into the United States.

Under the new rules, personal gifts valued under $100 will remain duty-free, but all other packages will be subject to tariffs based on their country of origin. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has indicated that duties will be assessed according to the effective tariff rates applicable to the country of origin of the product.

The suspension of the de minimis exemption is part of broader tariff measures implemented by the Trump administration, which have been impacting global financial markets. Postal services and courier companies are working to adapt to the new regulations, but the lack of clear guidance has led to temporary suspensions and potential disruptions in international mail services.