DHL has recently announced the lifting of its suspension on deliveries exceeding $800 (£603) to the United States. This decision comes after successful negotiations that led to adjustments in customs rules. Earlier this month, the delivery giant had halted shipments to US consumers due to an overwhelming increase in regulatory requirements stemming from former President Donald Trump's tariff policies.
At the beginning of this month, DHL took the precautionary measure of stopping shipments valued over $800 until further notice. This action was taken in response to a significant rise in red tape associated with customs checks, which had been tightened alongside the implementation of new tariffs. The delivery service provider stated that this change had resulted in a surge of formal customs clearances, necessitating a 24/7 operational adjustment to manage the increased workload. DHL had expressed concerns that shipments with a value exceeding $800 could face extended delays, affecting delivery timelines for US shoppers.
Following constructive dialogue between DHL and various US government agencies, including US Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Commerce, the suspension has now been lifted. A spokesperson for DHL emphasized the importance of this positive development, recognizing the support received from federal authorities in facilitating these changes. The ongoing discussions aimed to optimize customs regulations, ensuring that critical goods can continue to reach US businesses and consumers efficiently and compliantly.
The recent adjustments to US customs regulations now allow DHL to resume accepting business-to-consumer shipments with a declared value exceeding $800. This decision signifies a noteworthy reversal in the ongoing tension between the delivery industry and the White House regarding US tariff policies. Historically, packages valued up to $2,500 could enter the US with minimal documentation; however, the new regulations have lowered this threshold, making compliance more challenging for delivery services.
In addition to DHL's recent developments, the US government is also taking steps to tighten regulations concerning low-value packages, particularly those shipped from China and Hong Kong. On May 2, the government plans to eliminate a loophole that currently allows low-value items to enter the US duty-free. This change, known as the removal of the de minimis rule, is expected to impact companies like the fast-fashion retailer Shein and the low-cost retail giant Temu. Both companies have already indicated that they may increase prices due to these new global trade rules and tariff changes.
As DHL resumes its operations for high-value shipments, the delivery industry continues to navigate the complexities of US customs regulations, striving to ensure that consumers receive their packages in a timely and efficient manner.
