DHL Express has stopped delivering goods worth more than $800 to private customers in the United States. The global shipping company says the new customs rules under recent tariff reforms are making shipments too difficult and time-consuming to process. The change affects businesses shipping goods to American individuals and is in place until further notice.

Business-to-business shipments will continue. However, DHL warns these may face longer delays due to more customs checks and paperwork.

US Customs Threshold Drops from $2,500 to $800

Previously, international packages under $2,500 could enter the United States with limited inspection. But new trade measures—introduced as part of a broader tariff policy overhaul—lowered that threshold to $800.

DHL explained that the stricter rules caused a surge in paperwork, slowing down deliveries. The company is now working round the clock to meet the demand for formal customs declarations. But it admits that packages above the $800 limit might still face delays of several days, no matter where they come from.

Packages valued under $800 will still benefit from simpler customs processing and fewer checks.

Washington Targets Smaller Packages from China

Further changes are coming. Starting 2 May, the US will close a key import loophole for packages under $800. This new rule applies mainly to shipments from China and Hong Kong. Currently, these packages can enter the country duty-free.

The rule change is expected to impact online retailers like Shein and Temu, who ship large volumes of low-cost goods directly to US shoppers. Both companies have already warned that prices will go up due to new trade regulations.

The US government said the new steps aim to fight the flow of illegal substances, especially synthetic opioids, which often come in small parcels. A recent White House statement linked the policy shift to national drug control efforts.

Officials argue that international smugglers mislabel packages to avoid detection and that this contributes to the ongoing opioid crisis.

China disagrees. Officials in Beijing said fentanyl abuse is a domestic US problem, not one caused by Chinese exports. They also stressed that China’s anti-drug rules meet or exceed global standards.

Hongkong Post Also Suspends US Shipments

DHL isn’t alone in responding to the changing trade environment. Hongkong Post, the region’s official postal service, announced last week that it will stop accepting sea mail to the US. The pause begins on 27 April and includes all parcels sent to American addresses.

A spokesperson for Hongkong Post accused the US of abusing tariffs and using trade policy as an economic weapon. The decision marks another sign of growing tensions in global shipping and trade.

Why It Matters for Shoppers and Retailers

These changes are expected to affect a wide range of people. US customers ordering from global e-commerce platforms may see higher prices, longer shipping times, or complete suspension of delivery. Small businesses that rely on international sales could also face growing costs and delays.

The tightened controls on both large and small shipments show that the US is becoming more aggressive about enforcing customs rules. Experts say this is likely part of a larger strategy to curb unfair trade practices and restrict illegal imports.

Still, logistics experts warn that these new policies could disrupt global shipping networks and raise questions about free trade and open markets.

More Delays, Higher Prices

For now, DHL’s decision affects only deliveries to individuals. However, if the customs backlog continues to grow, other shipping services may also suspend or limit their operations.

Industry analysts say the global trade environment remains uncertain. More rule changes could come in the months ahead, especially as tariff talks and security concerns continue to shape US policy.