A Major Change for Online Shoppers in the U.S.
If you’ve been ordering products from overseas and enjoying quick, duty-free delivery, there’s an important change on the horizon. The $800 de minimis tax exemption — which allowed low-value orders to enter the U.S. without duties, tariffs, or extended customs checks — is coming to an end.
Starting August 29, 2025, all imported goods, regardless of value, will undergo full customs processing and may be subject to import taxes.
What Is the De Minimis Tax Exemption?
The de minimis exemption has been a key policy for cross-border shopping. It allowed shipments under a certain value (currently $800) to bypass:
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Customs duties and tariffs
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Additional import fees
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Lengthy clearance delays
This policy made it easier and more affordable for shoppers to purchase goods from international sellers — from specialty snacks and beauty products to fashion, tech accessories, and more.
Why Is It Ending?
The U.S. government announced in late July 2025 that the de minimis exemption will be removed for all countries. Officials say the move is intended to close loopholes, improve trade oversight, and ensure fair competition for domestic businesses.
What Changes to Expect After August 29, 2025
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Extra Costs on Smaller Orders
Even shipments worth less than $800 may now face customs duties, tariffs, and handling fees. -
Longer Delivery Times
Every package will require full customs clearance, which could slow down delivery. -
Shift in Shopping Habits
Similar policy changes in the past have led to noticeable increases in product prices, shipping fees, and delivery times — trends likely to continue.
How to Prepare Before the Deadline
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Shop Early: Place international orders before August 29, 2025 to take advantage of the current duty-free allowance.
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Stock Up: Purchase nonperishable items in bulk — such as beauty products, packaged foods, or stationery — to avoid future fees.
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Bundle Purchases: Consolidating orders into fewer shipments can help reduce the impact of added costs.
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Stay Updated: Follow official announcements and shipping updates from retailers to understand how costs and timelines may change.
The Bigger Picture for Global E-Commerce
The end of the de minimis exemption will reshape how cross-border commerce operates. Many sellers may shift toward U.S.-based warehousing, adjust pricing, or change shipping methods to manage new duties and clearance processes.
While international shopping won’t disappear, it will likely require more planning — and possibly a higher budget — moving forward.
Final Thoughts
The end of the $800 de minimis tax exemption is one of the most significant changes to U.S. import rules in years. If you enjoy buying goods from abroad, now is the time to act.
Order before August 29, 2025, to take advantage of duty-free pricing and faster delivery — and be ready for a new era in online shopping once the rules change.
