New CBP Rules End $800 Duty-Free Imports: What It Means
For years, millions of low-cost packages from overseas entered the US without paying any import taxes. That loophole is now closed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued new rules that end duty-free treatment for shipments valued at $800 or less — and the change affects anyone who shops online from international sellers.
What Changed and Why
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued new rules that end duty-free treatment for low-value imports. Before this change, packages worth $800 or less could enter the US without paying import taxes — a policy known as de minimis (Latin for "too small to matter"). That policy is now suspended indefinitely. The change follows a presidential executive order that took effect on August 29, 2025.
CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott said the old system allowed "billions of low-value shipments" to enter the US without enough information. The new rules apply the same standards to every package, no matter how it enters the country — by air, sea, or international mail.
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What the New Rules Actually Say
Under the new rules, all shipments valued at $2,500 or less are subject to import duties. There are two exceptions: genuine gifts worth $100 or less (or $200 if sent from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, or American Samoa), and certain personal items that travelers bring with them. Everything else — including the cheap goods many people order from overseas online stores — can now be taxed at the border.
CBP is also testing a new electronic entry process for international mail. Importers and customs brokers who choose to participate must submit extra data, including the recipient's information and postal tracking numbers. CBP says this will help agents spot dangerous, counterfeit, or illegal goods before they reach American homes.
What to Do
- Check if your imports are affected. If you regularly receive packages from international sellers — especially from large overseas e-commerce platforms — your shipments may now be subject to import duties.
- Keep records of all international purchases. Save receipts, invoices, and tracking numbers. CBP may ask for this information to calculate the correct duty.
- Talk to a licensed customs broker. A broker can help you understand what duties apply to your specific goods and how to file the right paperwork.
- Watch for updates from CBP. The agency says it will provide ongoing guidance. Visit CBP's e-Commerce page for the latest rules and frequently asked questions.
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These new CBP rules create real compliance obligations for anyone regularly receiving or sending international shipments. The suspension of de minimis treatment means duties can now be assessed on packages that were previously waved through — and failing to declare or pay could trigger penalties. If you run a small business that imports goods, consult a licensed customs attorney or broker now to review your supply chain before your next shipment arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this affect regular shoppers who buy things online from overseas?
Yes. If you order products from international online stores and the package is shipped directly to you in the US, it may now be subject to import duties — even if it costs less than $800.
Are gifts from family abroad still duty-free?
Only if the gift is a genuine personal gift worth $100 or less. If it is sent from someone in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, or American Samoa, the limit is $200. Commercial goods sent as "gifts" do not qualify.
What is the new electronic entry test, and do I have to join?
CBP is testing a system where importers and brokers voluntarily submit extra shipment data — like recipient details and tracking numbers — through an electronic process. Participation is optional for now, but CBP says it plans to expand the program over time.
What happens if I don't pay the new import duties?
CBP can hold your package at the border until duties are paid. In some cases, repeated non-payment or false declarations can lead to fines or other penalties. Lawyers recommend working with a licensed customs broker to stay compliant.