DHL Suspends High-Value Deliveries to US Amid Tariff Regime
Delivery giant halts shipments over $800 due to increased customs red tape, while White House prepares to clamp down on low-value deliveries from China and Hong Kong
DHL Express has announced the suspension of deliveries to the US worth more than $800 due to a significant increase in customs paperwork following the introduction of new tariffs.
The company will temporarily stop shipments from companies worldwide to American consumers, while business-to-business shipments will continue but may face delays.
Previously, packages valued up to $2,500 could enter the US with minimal checks, but tighter customs regulations have lowered this threshold.
As a result, DHL is experiencing a surge in formal customs clearances, leading to potential multi-day delays for shipments over $800, regardless of origin.
Deliveries worth less than $800 will still be processed with minimal checks.
However, the White House plans to close a loophole allowing low-value packages from China and Hong Kong to enter the US duty-free on May 2, which may impact companies such as Shein and Temu.
These firms have warned of potential price increases due to changes in global trade rules and tariffs.
The Trump administration has cited concerns over deceptive shipping practices and the synthetic opioid supply chain as reasons for the new measures, while Beijing maintains that the issue is a US problem and China has strict drug policies in place.
Meanwhile, Hongkong Post has suspended packages sent to the US by sea and will stop accepting parcels destined for America from April 27.