Nordic postal groups halt shipments to US as de minimis exemption ends

The de minimis exemption is a US trade rule that allows low-value goods (below $800) to enter the country without paying customs, duties or taxes. It’s designed to simplify and speed up the import process for small shipments.

The change in regulation, effective August 29, will considerably affect international postal services and e-retailers.

PostNord, owned by the Swedish and Danish governments, announced the temporary pause on postal shipments containing goods to the United States and Puerto Rico, effective from August 23.

“This decision is unfortunate, but necessary to ensure full compliance of the newly implemented rules. We are actively working with the relevant international organisations, as well as our U.S. partners, to develop and implement the necessary solution, and remain committed to resuming service for our customers as soon as possible,” says Bjorn Bergman, head of the group’s brand and communication in a statement.

"The details surrounding this have not yet been clarified by the US customs authorities, and no system solutions have been developed that postal companies can use," Posten Bring said in a separate statement. It said postal companies in Europe were working together to gain clarity.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (DS)