Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Mail Shipments and New Postal Informal Entry Process
What happened
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has indefinitely suspended the de minimis administrative exemption for imports valued at $800 or less arriving through the international postal network. This action also establishes a new postal informal entry process for specific goods entering the U.S. by mail. The interim final rule was signed by Donald Trump and is effective on July 24, 2026, with compliance for some parts by October 22, 2026.
Why it matters
The change means that many low-value items previously imported duty-free through the mail will now be subject to customs processes and potentially duties. This aims to address concerns about increased package volumes, unlawful importations, and uncollected duties from international e-commerce.
Who it affects
- ›Importers of goods via international mail
- ›Individuals receiving international mail packages
- ›U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- ›Businesses involved in international e-commerce
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