End of the de minimis threshold on shipments to the USA

Until now, shipments valued under 800 USD have been exempt from U.S. customs duties and taxes. But this exemption will now be removed, effective from August 29, 2025. All shipments, even small parcels under 800 USD, will be subject to normal customs requirements and require full customs clearance.

The new rules apply to all countries shipping goods to the USA, not just Denmark. This means that Swedish, Norwegian and other European businesses will be affected in the same way.

What does this mean for us?

It does not mean major changes for the carriers, other than the fact that they will now need more information on all shipments – including those valued under 800 USD.

But it does mean increased costs for you on shipments to the USA under the new customs rules. There will also be more customs procedures, which may mean you need to reconsider your strategy for both logistics and product pricing. In addition, delivery times may be extended, as customs clearance can take longer.

In practice, you need to:

• Ensure that all goods have a correct HS code
• Make sure the invoice contains detailed product description, value, country of origin, etc.
• Prepare for longer delivery times and higher costs

The Confederation of Danish Industry predicts that small parcels, which is the term for most shipments valued under 800 USD, may see a price increase of up to 200–300 percent.

In short: more information must be provided, all parcels must be customs cleared, prices will rise, and delivery times may be extended.

Below you can read our guides on how to complete electronic customs documents.

Why are the rules changing?

The USA is removing the de minimis threshold, so customs duties can now be applied to shipments with goods valued under 800 USD. The stated reason from the USA is an increased focus on national security, partly to prevent the smuggling of illegal goods.

In addition, they want to protect the country’s own businesses from competition from abroad, as it has been an advantage to receive cheap parcels from overseas without duties.

What do the carriers say?

There have been various statements from several carriers. Transport companies such as DSV, DHL, Blue Water Shipping and FedEx have all informed their customers that they will continue to ship parcels to the USA, but that their customers of course must meet the customs requirements now applicable to all shipments.

PostNord Denmark announces suspension of shipments

Updated on October 23, 2025: PostNord has resumed shipments of less than 800 USD to the USA and Puerto Rico as of today.

In contrast, on August 20, 2025, PostNord Denmark announced that they will stop all shipments of goods under 800 USD to both the USA and Puerto Rico for a temporary period, effective from August 29, 2025, when the new rules take effect.

While PostNord Denmark is working on a solution adapted to the new regulations, you can inform your American and Puerto Rican customers about the situation on your website and possibly via email. Also consider informing your customers proactively about possible changes in delivery time or fees, so you avoid misunderstandings.

PostNord Denmark will only resume shipments once their internal procedures have been adapted to the new rules.