Starting August 29, 2025, the United States will end tax-free import of small commercial shipments valued up to $800. This decision, signed by President Donald J. Trump, affects businesses worldwide that export products to the American market.

Until now, the so-called de minimis exemption allowed shipments under $800 to enter the country without import duties. This exemption will now be eliminated for ALL countries.

Background of the Decision

This measure follows earlier restrictions on specific goods from Canada, Mexico, and China. According to the White House, eliminating the exemption is necessary to prevent abuse by foreign sellers and better control the import of illegal drugs. Currently, fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are being brought into the US through multiple countries. Therefore, the government is opting for a worldwide approach.

What will change?

From late August, commercial shipments up to $800 will no longer be exempt from import duties. This applies to all countries of origin. For shipments through the international postal network, there are two options:

• a duty based on a percentage that depends on the country of origin
• a fixed duty of $80 to $200 per shipment, applicable during a six-month transition period

Personal goods up to $200 carried by travelers remain exempt. Gifts up to $100 can still be imported duty-free under certain conditions.

Impact on E-commerce Businesses

This represents a significant change for many online stores and logistics service providers. Small shipments under $800 are common in international e-commerce. Now that import duties must be paid on these, costs may increase. This affects not only exporters’ margins but potentially also prices for American consumers.

Artificially splitting shipments to stay below the threshold was already prohibited and now offers no advantage either. As a result, companies will need to review their shipping strategies.

Action Required for Exporters

Do you regularly send shipments under $800 to the United States? Then now is the time to revise your logistics approach. Consider optimizing shipping flows, adjusting your customs policy, or restructuring order processing.

Source: evofenedex.nl

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