Explainer: What the End of the ‘De Minimis’ Duty-Free Parcel Rule Means

The administration had ended the $800 ‘de minimis’ exemption, citing security and fairness, in a move set to raise costs for global shippers and consumers.

A delivery person handles a trolley full of packages, in New York City on Dec. 2, 2014. Reuters/Carlo Allegri/File Photo

The Trump administration has ended duty-free treatment for parcels valued at less than $800, closing the “de minimis” exemption that for decades allowed small packages to enter the United States without tariffs.

The change, effective at 12:01 a.m. on Aug. 29, means all global parcel imports will now be subject to standard U.S. customs duties regardless of value or origin. Gifts worth less than $100 sent by individuals remain exempt.