Archive · 22 Aug 2025
Postal Services Suspend US Deliveries Amidst Rule Changes
The US is changing its rules for small packages coming from other countries.
Starting August 29th, packages worth less than $800 will no longer be exempt from extra fees.
Because of this, many postal services around the world are pausing their deliveries to the US.
They are unsure how to handle the new rules and collect the necessary fees.
This means it will be harder and more expensive to send packages to the US from other countries.
Some companies, like Etsy, are also stopping certain shipping services because of these changes.
Postal services worldwide are halting parcel deliveries to the US due to changes in customs rules.
The US is ending the 'de minimis' exemption for low-value packages on August 29th.
Many postal services, including those in the Czech Republic, Austria, and Belgium, are temporarily suspending shipments.
The changes require duties to be assessed on imports based on country of origin, causing confusion.
Etsy will suspend its shipping label service for US-bound packages from select countries.
- Who
- Postal services, US Customs and Border Protection, online marketplaces like Etsy.
- What
- Multiple postal services are temporarily halting parcel shipments to the US.
- When
- Starting as early as this week, August 2025.
- Where
- Worldwide to the United States.
- Why
- Due to the end of the 'de minimis' exemption and uncertainty regarding new customs rules.
US Stance
Postal Service and Business Stance
Impact of New Tariffs
US Stance
Enforcement of tariffs and duties on low-value packages
Postal Service and Business Stance
Increased costs and logistical complexities for postal services and businesses.
Benefits and Drawbacks
US Stance
Eliminating the de minimis loophole to stop tax evasion and illegal drug imports
Postal Service and Business Stance
Businesses and consumers facing added costs and complications in sending and receiving packages.
- Policy Change
- Ending of the 'de minimis' exemption
- Effective Date
- August 29, 2025
- Affected Services
- International parcel shipments via postal services
- Impact
- Delays, suspensions, and increased costs for shippers
- Key Players
- US Customs, postal services (Czech Republic, Austria, Belgium, etc.)
- Online Marketplaces Affected
- Etsy
