Important Update: Effective August 29th 2025

The United States will remove the $800 duty-free de minimis exemption. This means that all shipments regardless of value or country of origin, will now be subject to duties, taxes, and fees.

For exporters and e-commerce brands, this change marks one of the most significant shifts in U.S. import regulations in recent years.

At Flight Logistics Group Ltd, we combine decades of experience in global freight, customs, and e-commerce fulfilment to guide businesses through compliance changes like this.

See our U.S. Shipping checklist

 

  1. What has changed?

Previously, U.S. imports valued under $800 could enter duty-free under the de minimis rule. From August 29th, 2025, this exemption is ending.

Key impacts for exporters:

  • All imports are taxable regardless of size, value, or country of origin.
  • Applies equally to small e-commerce parcels and large consignments.
  • Customs authorities will increase scrutiny on paperwork, raising the risk of clearance delays if documentation is incomplete or inaccurate.

 

  1. Business impact of removing the de minimis threshold

If you ship goods to the United States, you should plan for:

  • Potential increased costs: Duties and taxes will now apply to every shipment.
  • Clearance delays: Missing or incorrect details can stall goods at customs.
  • Stricter compliance requirements: Particular focus on Incoterms and the Manufacturer Identification Code (MID).
  • Customer expectations: Higher landed costs may affect pricing and delivery promises for U.S. buyers.

 

  1. Compliance checklist: Preparing your U.S. shipments

To minimise delays and avoid penalties, ensure every U.S. shipment includes:

  • A clear and detailed description of goods
  • The correct HS Code and Incoterm
  • The Manufacturer Identification Code (MID)
  • Accurate values, consignee details, and complete commercial invoices / airwaybills

 

  1. How Flight Logistics Group can support you

As an experienced UK-based international logistics and e-commerce partner, Flight Logistics Group Ltd provides expert guidance and hands-on support to help you stay compliant.

Our team can assist with:

  • Reviewing your shipping and customs documentation
  • Advising on the financial impact of new U.S. duties and taxes
  • Helping your teams understand and apply correct Incoterms
  • Providing proactive support to keep goods moving smoothly

 

Conclusion: Stay ahead of U.S. import changes

The removal of the U.S. de minimis exemption is a major regulatory shift, but with accurate paperwork, the right processes, and expert support, your business can continue exporting to the U.S. without disruption.

At Flight Logistics Group Ltd, we combine expertise, technology, and personal service to ensure your shipments clear customs quickly and compliantly.

Talk to our team

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the U.S. de minimis exemption?
    The de minimis exemption allowed shipments valued under $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. From August 29th, 2025, this exemption will be removed. All imports, regardless of value or origin, must now pay duties, taxes, and fees.

 

  1. How will this affect small businesses and e-commerce sellers?
    If you sell low-value items into the U.S., your shipments will now face additional costs. You’ll also need to ensure paperwork is fully compliant to avoid delays. This may impact margins, delivery times, and customer pricing strategies.

 

  1. What paperwork is required for U.S. imports after August 29th, 2025?
    You must include:
    • A full description of goods
    • Correct HS code and Incoterm
    • The Manufacturer Identification Code (MID)
    • Accurate declared values and consignee details

 

  1. Can Flight Logistics help me stay compliant?
    Yes. Flight Logistics provides end-to-end customs support, documentation reviews, and compliance advice. Our specialists help exporters adjust processes, avoid costly mistakes, and maintain smooth U.S. trade operations.