Small Imports Lose Duty-Free Status Across All Transport Modes
Published Date: 6/24/2026
Rule
Summary
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!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
De Minimis Exemption Suspended (Non‑Postal)
Starting June 24, 2026, shipments of merchandise valued at $800 or less that arrive by any method other than the international postal network will no longer qualify for the de minimis duty exemption. Those shipments must use formal or informal entry procedures, which can mean more paperwork and possible duties, taxes, fees, or other charges when you import or sell goods using non‑postal carriers.
Concurrent Rulemaking for Postal Shipments
CBP is publishing a separate, concurrent rulemaking that announces an indefinite suspension of the de minimis exemption for merchandise valued at $800 or less arriving through the international postal network. That separate action indicates similar entry and data requirements may soon apply to postal deliveries as well.
Traveler and Gift Exemptions Preserved
This rule does not change the law that keeps bona fide gifts and personal or household articles that travel with a person exempt. Gifts valued at $100 or less (or $200 from certain island possessions) and personal or household articles accompanying travelers valued at $200 or less remain unaffected by this suspension.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12668 — Test of the New Electronic Informal Entry Process for Mail
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.
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.
2026-11563 — Accreditation and Approval of AmSpec, LLC (Signal Hill, CA) as a Commercial Gauger and Laboratory
AmSpec, LLC in Signal Hill, CA, just got the green light to measure and test petroleum products for U.S. Customs starting November 20, 2025. This approval lasts three years, helping importers and exporters trust their fuel checks are spot-on. No extra costs or changes for businesses, but keep an eye out for the next inspection in November 2028!
2026-11566 — Accreditation and Approval of AmSpec, LLC (South Portland, ME) as a Commercial Gauger and Laboratory
AmSpec, LLC in South Portland, ME, is officially approved to measure and test petroleum products for U.S. Customs starting September 10, 2025. This means businesses dealing with petroleum can trust AmSpec’s work for the next three years, with the next check-up scheduled for 2028. No extra costs or changes for customers are expected—just reliable, official testing and gauging services.
2026-11565 — Notice of Revocation of Customs Brokers' Licenses
Customs brokers who didn’t file their required status reports by February 29, 2024, had their licenses canceled automatically. This affects brokers across various U.S. ports, meaning they can’t legally work until they fix this. If you’re one of them, act fast to avoid losing business and money!
2026-11564 — Accreditation and Approval of AmSpec, LLC (Mickleton, NJ) as a Commercial Gauger and Laboratory
AmSpec, LLC in Mickleton, NJ, just got the green light to measure and test petroleum products for U.S. Customs starting September 29, 2025. This approval lasts three years, helping ensure accurate fuel checks and smooth trade. Businesses dealing with petroleum can trust AmSpec’s certified skills, with the next review set for September 2028—no extra costs announced.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 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.
Next: 2026-12673 — Modification of Class E Airspace, Omak Airport, Omak, WA
The FAA fixed some confusing wording about the airspace rules near Omak Airport, WA, to make them easier to understand. This change doesn’t affect pilots or costs but helps everyone get a clearer picture of the airspace starting 700 feet above the ground. The updated rules kick in on September 3, 2026, just like before.