DHL Express has announced a suspension of deliveries to the United States for packages valued over $800 (£603) owing to a significant escalation of customs procedures linked to new tariffs implemented by the Trump administration. The delivery service plans to halt these shipments beginning Monday until further notice, while still permitting business-to-business deliveries which may also experience delays.
Previously, parcels valued at up to $2,500 could enter the U.S. with minimal customs documentation. However, the introduction of stricter customs checks has reduced this threshold, causing an influx in formal customs clearances which DHL is managing continuously. The company indicated that shipments worth over $800 might face delays extending beyond several days.
For packages under the new threshold of $800, DHL confirmed that deliveries would continue with fewer inspections. However, the White House is preparing to tighten regulations on these deliveries as well. Starting May 2, packages from China and Hong Kong under the "de minimis" rule will also face restrictions, a measure aimed at curbing illicit substances, particularly in response to concerns over the synthetic opioid crisis.
Companies such as Shein and Temu, that heavily rely on low-cost imports, have issued warnings that prices for goods will likely rise as a direct result of the new tariffs and trade regulations. The Trump administration has suggested that deceptive shipping practices have facilitated the transport of illegal substances into the U.S., a claim disputed by Beijing, which maintains that it adheres to strict drug enforcement laws.
In a related announcement, Hongkong Post revealed its suspension of packages intended for the U.S. via sea and stated that it will stop accepting any U.S.-bound parcels from April 27 forward, claiming the U.S. is engaging in unreasonable and aggressive tariff practices. As these changes take effect, everyday goods, particularly from Asia, may see rising costs for American consumers.
Previously, parcels valued at up to $2,500 could enter the U.S. with minimal customs documentation. However, the introduction of stricter customs checks has reduced this threshold, causing an influx in formal customs clearances which DHL is managing continuously. The company indicated that shipments worth over $800 might face delays extending beyond several days.
For packages under the new threshold of $800, DHL confirmed that deliveries would continue with fewer inspections. However, the White House is preparing to tighten regulations on these deliveries as well. Starting May 2, packages from China and Hong Kong under the "de minimis" rule will also face restrictions, a measure aimed at curbing illicit substances, particularly in response to concerns over the synthetic opioid crisis.
Companies such as Shein and Temu, that heavily rely on low-cost imports, have issued warnings that prices for goods will likely rise as a direct result of the new tariffs and trade regulations. The Trump administration has suggested that deceptive shipping practices have facilitated the transport of illegal substances into the U.S., a claim disputed by Beijing, which maintains that it adheres to strict drug enforcement laws.
In a related announcement, Hongkong Post revealed its suspension of packages intended for the U.S. via sea and stated that it will stop accepting any U.S.-bound parcels from April 27 forward, claiming the U.S. is engaging in unreasonable and aggressive tariff practices. As these changes take effect, everyday goods, particularly from Asia, may see rising costs for American consumers.
