A new US tariff on low-value packages (under $800) is causing major disruptions. The "de minimis" exemption, allowing duty-free imports, expired, impacting 1.36 billion packages in 2024. Many European postal services, including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, France, Austria, and the UK, are temporarily suspending shipments to the US due to confusion over the new rules and lack of clarity on customs procedures. The situation stems from a lack of US systems to collect these new tariffs and insufficient time for European postal services to adapt. DHL and other major shipping providers are also affected. The issue highlights significant challenges in international trade and logistics.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.