The U.S. is eliminating the "de minimis" exemption, which allowed imports under $800 to bypass customs duties.
Now, every package will face:
A tariff ranging from 10% to 50% based on origin, or
A flat fee of $80–$200, whichever applies.
This policy shift is set to raise costs and increase shipping delays as carriers and sellers adjust—especially small businesses on Etsy or eBay.
Why This Matters
Painful for small sellers. Hobbyists and microbrands often relied on the exemption to stay affordable. Passing on higher costs may no longer be an option.
Shipping chaos incoming. Multiple postal services worldwide have paused U.S. deliveries in response to the confusion, with custom backlogs expected.
Not-so-silent hit to consumers. Even if you're ordering a cheap trinket or gift, you're about to get tagged for taxes—suddenly your "free shipping" comes with a surcharge.
Not Just A Fee—It’s A Price Check
Your next online impulse buy might come with a surprise—and it’s not a pop-up discount. Get ready to pay up, or maybe just think twice before clicking “order.”
