Hey fam, big news if you love snagging goodies from overseas! The US has just waved goodbye to its $800 tariff-free parcel perk. Yup, that package you’re eyeing—whether it’s a K-beauty haul, the latest smartphone from eBay India, or some Etsy crafting bits—might cost you extra now. 📦💸
Here’s the deal: starting at 12:01 a.m. GMT on Friday, US Customs applies regular duty rates to ALL international parcels—no matter how cheap. Before, any package under $800 slipped through duty-free under a “small shipments exemption.”
During a six-month transition, you can choose to pay a flat fee of $80–$200 per parcel, depending on its origin. After that grace period? Full-on tariffs apply. 😬
This move extends the earlier decision to end the exemption for shipments from the Chinese mainland. And don’t expect a U-turn—officials say the change is permanent and any push to reinstate it for favored trading partners is “dead on arrival.”
Global ripple: The Universal Postal Union notes 25 member countries have paused postal deliveries to the US, citing confusion over the new rules. So that Lazada find from Malaysia or a Tokyo gadget drop via DHL? Might face delays or extra fees. 🌍⏳
Bottom line: Ordering tech gear, fashion hauls, or study supplies from abroad? Stack some cash for surprise duties and brace for possible shipping hiccups. Stay savvy, stay tracking! 👀✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
