DHL to suspend global shipments of over $800 to US consumers - Reuters

DHL to suspend global shipments of over $800 to US consumers - Reuters

DHL Express, a division of Germany's Deutsche Post DHL, has announced the suspension of global business-to-consumer (B2C) shipments valued over $800 to the United States. The decision, effective April 21, is a response to recent changes in U.S. customs regulations that have increased the clearance process for such shipments [2].

The new rules, implemented by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), require formal entry processing for all shipments with a value exceeding $800. Previously, the threshold was $2,500. This change, which took effect on April 5, has led to significant delays in customs processing, prompting DHL to temporarily halt shipments to U.S. consumers [1].

DHL has stated that the suspension is a temporary measure and that business-to-business (B2B) shipments will not be affected. Shipments valued under $800 to either businesses or consumers remain unaffected by the changes. The company is working diligently to manage the increased formal entry clearances and expects to resume B2C shipments once the situation improves [2].

The escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China have contributed to the recent regulatory changes. The U.S. has implemented steep tariffs and closed the de minimis provision for China-originated parcels, leading to increased scrutiny and processing times for imports [1].

Hong Kong Post has also responded to these changes by suspending low-value shipments to the U.S. The postal office has accused the U.S. of "bullying" and has refused to collect the new tariffs on behalf of the U.S. [1].

The suspension of DHL's shipments is likely to have a significant impact on e-commerce transactions between the U.S. and global markets. Consumers and businesses will need to adapt to the new rules and may face increased costs and delivery delays [2].

References:
[1] https://sourcingjournal.com/topics/logistics/dhl-delays-suspends-shipments-cbp-customs-clearance-formal-entry-processing-hongkong-post-de-minimis-1234744873/
[2] https://www.tradingview.com/news/reuters.com,2025:newsml_L4N3QY00I:0-dhl-to-suspend-global-shipments-of-over-800-to-us-consumers/