US President Donald Trump has temporarily reinstated the de minimis rule exemption, but only until a new system is put in place to collect tariffs on packages under $800. This move comes as a shock to consumers, with many facing unexpected import fees and confusion among shipping providers.
The reversal of the exemption, which allowed US consumers to receive foreign packages valued under $800 duty-free, has disrupted cross-border e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein. The sudden imposition of tariffs on previously exempt low-value packages has led to increased costs for consumers and challenges for shipping providers.
Many have taken to social media to express their frustration with the new charges, which include a DHL notice demanding an extra $115.91 for package delivery. Shipping providers such as UPS and USPS are working to adapt to the new regulations, but some have struggled to adjust.
The policy shift has also led to increased costs for e-commerce platforms specializing in direct-from-China shopping. Temu and Shein now require Chinese merchants to pay an additional 30 percent levy on all retail goods sold through their platforms – a cost that will likely be passed on to consumers.
While the intention of the original exemption was to curb the flow of fentanyl and precursor chemicals into the US, its consequences extend beyond its intended purpose. American consumers may soon face higher prices for low-cost items like $5 shirts, $10 lamps, and $20 shoes from Chinese platforms.
As the situation continues to evolve, online shopping from China is undergoing a dramatic shift. Consumers, shipping providers, and e-commerce platforms must now navigate an uncertain landscape, marking the end of the era of effortless, ultra-cheap imports from China.
Source: https://www.techspot.com/news/106703-unexpected-fees-shock-us-consumers-trump-ends-800.html