DHL suspends global shipments over $800 to U.S. consumers amid new customs rules
As U.S. customs regulations tighten, DHL halts key international shipments—triggering industry-wide disruption, rising costs, and a scramble for alternatives among global retailers like Shein and Temu.
DHL has announced a temporary suspension of international shipments valued over $800 to U.S. consumers, effective April 21, 2025. This decision follows recent changes in U.S. customs regulations that now require formal entry processing for all shipments exceeding $800—a significant shift from the previous $2,500 threshold implemented on April 5. The new rules have overwhelmed DHL's systems, causing widespread delivery delays. While business-to-business shipments will continue, they may encounter delays due to heightened border scrutiny.
The revised customs enforcement has lowered the threshold for simplified import procedures, necessitating additional documentation and customs checks for goods worth more than $800. This change has flooded DHL's systems and slowed deliveries across the board. DHL stated that the delivery suspension is a "temporary measure," and they are working diligently to manage the increase in formal clearances.
U.S. crackdown on import exemptions sparks international backlash and rising shipping costs
Shipments under $800 remain eligible for quicker processing; however, they could be affected by a looming crackdown on the "de minimis" rule, a long-standing exemption that allows low-cost imports to skip duties and inspections. This exemption, which has benefited online retailers such as Shein and Temu. The rollback is expected to increase costs, particularly for goods from China and Hong Kong.
The Trump administration has framed these changes as national security measures aimed at curbing the flow. In response, Hong Kong’s postal service announced a suspension of U.S.-bound shipments, criticizing the new U.S. policy as unfair. This development follows Hongkong Post's suspension of sea mail services to the U.S., citing accusations of "bullying" after Washington revoked tariff-free provisions for packages from China and Hong Kong.
Luxury retailers and shippers scramble as DHL suspension disrupts deliveries and raises costs
The suspension significantly impacts clients, especially in the luxury fashion sector, with rival firms like FedEx and UPS poised to benefit. The new documentation demands and potential removal of the $800 “de minimis” exemption for low-value Chinese goods threaten to further increase costs and processing times for international shippers and retailers like Shein and Temu. Freight brokers are working during holiday periods to assist clients in finding alternatives to DHL’s services amidst the confusion and operational disruptions.
DHL emphasized that the suspension is temporary and promised future updates. They are working to scale up and manage the increase in formal clearances required under the new regulations. The company has assured customers that they will support them in adapting to the new rules, which are expected to evolve by May 2.
