UK Mail Madness: Royal Mail and DHL Pause US Deliveries

[webfact]

File photo

 

Chaos hits global postal services as the Royal Mail and DHL suspend some US-bound deliveries amid a storm of confusion over new tax rules. Starting 29 August, US President Donald Trump's new regulations will yank away the import tax exemption for low-value parcels, causing havoc for businesses worldwide.

 

Royal Mail has temporarily suspended its US export services, promising to resolve the issue with a new system soon. The postal giant guarantees the safety of cards and letters. Meanwhile, DHL delays business package deliveries, citing unresolved questions on tax payments.

 

Sweeping Changes Hit Shops Hard

 

For years, import duties were waived for parcels under $800, making it easy to secure affordable purchases from platforms such as Shein and Temu. No more! All packages, aside from gifts under $100, will now face tariffs based on their country of origin. The rules shift aims to curb deceptive shipping and illegal imports.

 

China loses its exclusive duty-free benefit from 2 May, with the US casting its net over global shippers. The surge in de minimis shipments—from 115 million to 309 million in just over a year—has put the spotlight on Canada and Mexico, alongside China, as significant contributors.

 

Postal Giants in a Tangle

 

DHL remains silent, closely monitoring the unfolding events and maintaining communication with US authorities. Its DHL Express services can still ship to the US, but parcel delivery for business clients is on pause. Similarly, PostNord has halted operations, citing the decision as a "necessary" compliance measure following US rule updates.

 

The ripples reach the online marketplace Etsy, which tells users to pause on certain shipping labels while couriers scramble to adapt. Sellers should prepare for a challenging journey and remain vigilant for any updates on shipping procedures.

 

The de minimis adjustment—meant for 1 July 2027—has landed early thanks to Trump’s executive decision. While personal items under $200 and gifts under $100 are exempt from duty, businesses face new challenges.

 

The move aims to tackle "escalating deceptive shipping practices" but leaves postal services worldwide in flux. Stay tuned as Royal Mail, DHL, and others tighten their delivery game in response to these sweeping US changes.

 

Commerce Update

 

Amidst the chaos, online sellers and shippers brace for the impact as they await further clarity. Global trade and postal operations now face a tax terrain dramatically altered by the US, promising shifts in international shipping dynamics.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-23

 

[stevenl]

Also NL post has suspended shipping to the US, I'm sure there are many more.