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
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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.
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