Postal Operators Seeking Solutions Before Continuing US Service
On top of the drop in postal traffic, the UPU also reported that 88 postal operators have suspended some or all postal services to the US, until a solution is found for the delivery of parcels valued at $800 or less. This was previously the cutoff for imported goods to escape customs charges.
“The global network saw postal traffic to the US come to a near-halt after the implementation of the new rules on August 29th 2025, which for the first time placed the burden of customs duty collection and remittance on transportation carriers or US Customs and Border Protection agency-approved qualified parties.” – Universal Postal Union, in a statement
Furthermore, the UPU said they have seen “major operational disruptions,” and stated that their members had not been given enough time or guidance to comply with the procedures, outlined in Donald Trump’s July 30th executive order.
De minimis has existed since 1938. Now, purchases that previously entered the US without needing to clear customs are subject to vetting and their origin country’s tariff rate, ranging from 10% to 50%.
