Global logistics giant DHL has announced it will temporarily suspend deliveries of high-value packages to the United States, citing overwhelming delays triggered by the recent tightening of U.S. customs regulations. The move comes after the U.S. government, under the Trump administration, implemented stricter checks in conjunction with new tariffs, significantly impacting the flow of international goods.
Previously, items valued at up to $2,500 could enter the U.S. with minimal paperwork under what is known as the “de minimis” rule. However, new enforcement measures have lowered the threshold, prompting a sharp rise in formal customs clearances. DHL stated that this surge has overwhelmed operations, despite the company working “around the clock” to manage the influx.
“Shipments worth over $800, regardless of origin, may experience multi-day delays,” DHL warned, highlighting that while efforts are underway to scale operations, service disruptions are likely to persist.
The situation is expected to escalate further on May 2, when the U.S. plans to close a key loophole that allowed packages under $800 to bypass tariffs particularly those originating from China and Hong Kong. The clampdown aims to target what the White House calls deceptive shipping practices that facilitate the entry of illicit goods, including synthetic opioids.
In an executive order, the Trump administration stated that the new measures are part of efforts to combat the synthetic opioid crisis, blaming many Chinese shippers for concealing illegal substances in small parcels. China, however, has rebuffed the claims, labeling the crisis a domestic U.S. issue and asserting that it enforces some of the strictest anti-drug policies globally.
The new policies are already rippling across global e-commerce. Chinese fast-fashion retailers Shein and Temu have warned of impending price hikes due to the tightened trade rules and tariffs.
In response to the growing challenges, Hongkong Post also announced a suspension of sea-bound shipments to the U.S. and will halt all parcel acceptance from April 27, calling the U.S. actions “unreasonable” and “bullying.”
While DHL will continue to process low-value shipments under $800, the broader logistics and retail sectors are bracing for prolonged disruptions in transpacific trade.
