Global shipping and logistics giant DHL has been the first to announce a halt to its business-to-consumer shipments of items valued at more than $800 to the United States. This decision is a direct response to the recently announced tariffs by the U.S. government. These relatively small tariffs have led to catastrophically delayed customs clearings as they… Beginning Monday, shipments above the new exemption threshold will no longer be accepted or processed, but shipments below this threshold are largely unaffected.
Former President Donald Trump imposed tariffs that disrupted the status quo of consumer shipments. Now, the exemption limit for these shipments coming over the border has decreased from $2,500 to $800. This increase, along with the 10-day customs clearance in China, has led to a bottleneck of customs clearances. As a result, DHL is re-evaluating its shipping of items beyond the new threshold. The firm explained that it is important to ensure this growth is managed in a smart way.
DHL further explained that its action only applies to business-to-consumer (B2C) shipments. Business-to-business shipments, as well as separate individual shipments valued at less than $800, will not be affected. This measure is intended to ensure that the firm is capable of staying efficient despite the new and increasing volume of customs clearances.
“While we are working diligently to scale up and manage this increase, shipments over USD 800 — regardless of origin — may experience multi-day delays,” – DHL statement
The announcement was framed by the logistics company as strictly a temporary suspension. Their goal is to ensure customers are aware of significant changes as the situation continues to develop. DHL has an extensive process to proactively provide reliable service. As ever, they carefully handle the intricacies of the new and confusing tariff regulations.
