DHL Halts High-Value Deliveries to the U.S. Amid Tariff Changes

Thu Oct 23 2025 23:11:58 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

DHL Express has suspended shipments valued over $800 to the U.S. due to increased customs red tape following new tariffs introduced by the Trump administration.

As stricter customs regulations take effect, DHL has revealed that all international shipments above the $800 mark will be put on hold until further notice, while business-related parcels may also encounter delays.

DHL Express announced today that it is suspending deliveries to the United States that exceed $800 in value, citing a "significant increase" in red tape stemming from the recent changes in U.S. tariff policy. The logistics giant stated that starting Monday, all countries will be affected by this temporary halt in delivering high-value packages to American consumers.

Previously, packages valued up to $2,500 could be sent with minimal paperwork, but the new regulations require stricter customs compliance, enforcing a lower threshold that has led to chaos in shipping logistics. According to DHL, this has resulted in a dramatic uptick in formal customs clearances, which they are currently managing around the clock.

For packages below the $800 threshold, DHL will still process deliveries with reduced checks; however, American consumers will face additional challenges soon as the White House plans to close loopholes for imports under $800 from China and Hong Kong starting May 2. This change targets shipments that previously avoided customs duties, which affects companies like fast-fashion retailer Shein and low-cost giant Temu.

Both companies have indicated that forthcoming price increases are a direct result of these tariff revisions and stricter trade regulations. The Trump administration has justified these measures by claiming that certain shippers in China engage in deceptive practices that facilitate the illicit importation of substances like fentanyl, a major contributor to the U.S. opioid crisis. Meanwhile, China has responded by firmly stating that such issues are a "U.S. problem," emphasizing its stringent drug enforcement laws.

Adding to the shipping interruptions, Hongkong Post announced earlier this week that it will cease accepting parcels destined for the U.S. by sea, denouncing these changes as unreasonable and abusive tariffs. With these adjustments to the trade rules, American consumers may soon face higher prices for everyday goods due to the evolving landscape of international shipping and commerce.