DHL Halts High-Value Deliveries to the US Amid New Tariffs

DHL's temporary suspension affects international deliveries following the introduction of new tariffs, further complicating customs processes and leading to potential delays for business shipments.

DHL Express has announced a suspension of deliveries to the United States for packages valued over $800 (£603) due to a "significant increase" in customs regulations linked to the recently introduced tariff regime under former President Donald Trump. Effective from Monday, DHL stated that this measure will remain in place "until further notice." While business-to-business shipments will continue, they may also encounter delays due to the heightened scrutiny at customs.

Previously, international packages valued at up to $2,500 could be shipped to the US with minimal documentation. However, with new customs standards implemented alongside Trump’s tariffs since earlier this month, the threshold for low-value shipments has been drastically lowered. DHL noted that this change has resulted in a considerable rise in formal customs clearances, which the company is managing around the clock.

The logistics provider confirmed that shipments valued at less than $800 will still be processed, as they face fewer customs checks. However, the Biden administration is preparing to tighten regulations on these lower-value deliveries, targeting specifically items shipped from China and Hong Kong. Starting May 2, a loophole that previously allowed low-value packages to enter the US without duties will be closed.

The removal of the "de minimis" rule could have significant financial implications for companies such as Shein and Temu, which have already indicated they will increase prices due to the evolving global trade landscape and tariffs.

The Trump administration justifies the new measures, asserting that "many shippers" in China employ deceptive shipping practices to conceal illicit substances in their packages. Under a new executive order, the White House aims to disrupt the synthetic opioid supply chain, which it claims significantly contributes to the opioid crisis in the US. In response, China has reiterated that fentanyl and opioid-related issues represent a US problem, emphasizing its stringent drug enforcement policies.

Meanwhile, Hongkong Post also announced that it will suspend all sea-bound packages to the US and cease accepting parcels heading there starting April 27. The postal service criticized the US for what it called unreasonable and abusive tariff practices. Both Shein and Temu warn that these new tariffs are likely to lead to higher prices for American consumers, raising concerns about the potential impacts on everyday products.