Customs Tweaks Electronic Paperwork for Small International Mail Packages
Published Date: 10/22/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting October 22, 2026, U.S. Customs is tweaking its test for a new electronic way to handle small international mail shipments worth $2,500 or less. Now, you can send your entry with or without extra government agency info, making the process smoother for folks importing low-value goods. This change helps speed up mail processing without adding extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Informal mail entry for shipments ≤ $2,500
Starting October 22, 2026, CBP’s Entry Type 13 test creates an informal electronic entry path for international mail shipments valued at $2,500 or less. This pathway applies to low-value mail that includes shipments that previously qualified for the de minimis duty exemption and to shipments that were ineligible under the prior interim process.
Temporary acceptance without full PGA data
Effective October 22, 2026, CBP will temporarily accept Entry Type 13 filings that are not accompanied by complete electronic Partner Government Agency (PGA) data so filers can begin using the new informal entry while they work to submit full PGA information electronically. CBP will announce when this temporary acceptance ends in a future Federal Register notice.
Electronic ACE filing required for IOR
To participate in the Entry Type 13 test, the importer of record (IOR) — including the owner, purchaser, or a properly appointed licensed broker acting as IOR — must file the required Entry Type 13 data electronically in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE).
Extra data for Chapter 98/99 or duty-free claims
Merchandise subject to duties under Chapter 98 or Chapter 99 of the HTSUS, or for which duty-free treatment is claimed under Chapter 98 or a Free Trade Agreement, must transmit the additional data that those requirements mandate when filing Entry Type 13 electronically in ACE.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20884, Advance Traveler Information for Rail
U.S. Customs and Border Protection wants train companies to send traveler info ahead of time for anyone coming into or leaving the U.S. by rail. This helps keep travel safe and smooth for passengers and crew. The rule is open for comments until December 14, 2026, and could mean new tech or process updates for rail carriers.
2026-20650, Low-Value Shipments
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proposing new rules to make importing low-value goods (under $2,500) easier and more electronic, especially for mail shipments. They want to add new data requirements for carriers and require bonds for some shipments to keep things safe and smooth. If you’re involved in shipping or receiving small packages, get ready to adapt by December 7, 2026, when comments on these changes close.
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!
2026-21406, Accreditation and Approval of AmSpec, LLC (La Porte, TX), as a Commercial Gauger and Laboratory
Great news for businesses dealing with petroleum! AmSpec, LLC in La Porte, TX, is officially approved to measure and test petroleum products for customs starting July 7, 2026. This approval lasts three years, helping speed up customs checks without extra costs or delays.
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