Customs Tests Digital Paperwork for Your International Mail
Published Date: 6/24/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting September 22, 2026, U.S. Customs is testing a new electronic way to handle small packages coming through international mail. This new process, called Informal Mail Entry, affects anyone sending or receiving mail shipments and aims to make customs faster and clearer, especially since duty-free rules for items under $800 are paused. The test will run until further notice, and feedback is welcome throughout.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 1 mixed.
De Minimis Duty-Free Mail Exemption Suspended
CBP has indefinitely suspended the duty-free de minimis administrative exemption for international mail under 19 U.S.C. 1321(a)(2)(C) that previously applied to articles valued at $800 or less. That suspension is in effect pursuant to Executive Orders cited in the notice.
New Electronic Informal Entry (Type 13)
Starting September 22, 2026, CBP will test a new electronic informal entry called Entry Type 13 for international mail shipments valued at $2,500 or less. The test lets owners, purchasers, and properly appointed licensed customs brokers file informal mail entries electronically in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE).
Bond Requirement for Type 13 Filings
To file an Entry Type 13 informal mail entry, the importer of record (owner, purchaser, or appointed licensed broker) must have a basic importation and entry bond (single transaction bond or a continuous bond) as required by 19 CFR 113.62. If a broker is appointed as the importer of record, the broker's bond will be obligated for the entry.
New Data Filing Requirements
Entry Type 13 filers must electronically transmit specific data in ACE, including filer code, IOR number, merchandise description, country of origin, all applicable 10-digit HTSUS classifications (including Chapters 98 and 99), duty rate, value, total duty owed, carrier name, foreign-post tracking number, and arrival port. Shipments subject to Partner Government Agency (PGA) data rules or duties beyond Chapters 1-97 must also transmit required additional data.
Temporary Waivers Let More Low-Value Shipments Use Informal Entry
For test participants, CBP will waive certain formal-entry requirements so some low-value international mail shipments that otherwise would require formal entry (including some shipments subject to PGA rules or duties outside Chapters 1-97) can be filed informally under Entry Type 13. Shipments subject to antidumping/countervailing duties (AD/CVD) or quotas remain ineligible for informal entry.
Carrier Tracking on Manifests (Optional)
Carriers transporting international mail may opt into the test to report the foreign-post tracking number for each arriving mail shipment on their manifest. If both the carrier and the entry filer participate, CBP can match tracking numbers to confirm arrival times and that an entry was timely filed.
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Key Dates
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Related Federal Register Documents
2026-17390, Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Electronic Export Manifest for Rail Cargo
Starting October 26, 2026, all rail cargo leaving the U.S. must have its export info sent electronically through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). This new rule helps Customs keep cargo safe and makes trade smoother for rail exporters. Rail companies and exporters should get ready because enforcement begins a year later, on October 26, 2027.
2026-12669, Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Mail Shipments and New Postal Informal Entry Process
Starting July 24, 2026, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection is stopping the $800 tax-free rule for mail shipments coming into the U.S. Instead, a new process will handle these packages to better track and tax imports. This change affects anyone sending or receiving international mail and aims to protect U.S. revenue from unpaid duties.
2026-12670, Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Merchandise Arriving Through All Modes Other Than the International Postal Network
Starting June 24, 2026, small shipments worth $800 or less arriving by anything but the international postal network will no longer skip customs checks. This means everyone importing these goods must follow formal or informal entry rules, which could mean more paperwork and possible fees. If you’re a shopper, seller, or shipper using other delivery methods, get ready for this change and share your thoughts by July 24, 2026!
2026-19414, Electronic Export Manifest for Truck Cargo Test
Starting October 23, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is launching a fun, voluntary test for truck exporters to submit some export info electronically 24 hours before leaving the U.S., with the full details due 2 hours before reaching the border. This test lasts about two years and is open to nine qualified participants. It’s a smart move to speed up exports and make paperwork easier, with no extra fees involved.
2026-19292, Quarterly IRS Interest Rates Used in Calculating Interest on Overdue Accounts and Refunds of Customs Duties
Starting October 1, 2026, the IRS interest rates for customs duties stay steady: 7% for late payments by everyone, 7% for refunds to non-corporations, and 6% for refunds to corporations. If you import goods or handle customs duties, these rates affect how much interest you pay or get back. No surprises this quarter, just steady rates to keep your calculations clear and simple!
2026-19073, Agency Information Collection Activities; Revision; Exportation of Used Self-Propelled Vehicles
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