Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Merchandise Arriving Through All Modes Other Than the International Postal Network
CBP indefinitely suspends the de minimis exemption for merchandise arriving through all modes except the international postal network, meaning low-value shipments (under $800) will now be subject to formal entry, duties, and taxes.
Aforeworn detected this change in the International Trade & Tariffs (ITC / CBP / USTR) space on July 29, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated High urgency. Importers, customs brokers, and e-commerce businesses that rely on the de minimis exemption (Section 321) for shipments arriving via air, sea, truck, or rail (non-postal). should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: Effective immediately upon publication in the Federal Register (June 24, 2026). No grace period is specified.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors International Trade & Tariffs (ITC / CBP / USTR) continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
The de minimis exemption (19 U.S.C. 1321(a)(2)(C)) is indefinitely suspended for merchandise arriving through all modes other than the international postal network. These shipments must now be entered under formal or informal entry procedures and are subject to applicable duties, taxes, and fees.
Who it affects
Importers, customs brokers, and e-commerce businesses that rely on the de minimis exemption (Section 321) for shipments arriving via air, sea, truck, or rail (non-postal).
What you must do
Stop using the de minimis exemption for non-postal shipments. File formal or informal entries for all low-value commercial shipments arriving via non-postal modes, and pay any applicable duties and taxes.
Deadline
Effective immediately upon publication in the Federal Register (June 24, 2026). No grace period is specified.
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