It’s Your Duty to Pay the Duty: Buyers Hit With Extra Charges on Packages

What’s Changed?

After years of a tariff exemption on imported items valued at $800 or less, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has ended the program. The result? Many shoppers are now seeing an additional fee added to their orders, which must be settled before the package can be delivered.

Why the New Charge Appears

The exemption, originally introduced to simplify cross‑border shopping, allowed low‑value goods to enter the United States duty‑free. With the policy’s termination, any shipment that exceeds the new threshold is subject to the standard customs duty and possible taxes, which are calculated based on the item’s declared value.

Who Is Affected?

All consumers who purchase items from overseas retailers—especially those buying from popular platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and various Asian marketplaces—may encounter the extra charge. Even orders that were previously under the $800 limit can now trigger fees if the combined value of the shipment, including shipping and insurance, surpasses the new benchmark.

How the Fee Is Collected

Most carriers (UPS, FedEx, DHL, and the United States Postal Service) will now request payment at the time of delivery. Some may also send an electronic invoice beforehand, giving buyers a chance to pay online. If the fee is not paid, the package will be held at customs and could be returned to the sender.

Tips to Avoid Unexpected Costs

1. Check the total declared value before finalizing your order. Include shipping, insurance, and any handling fees in the calculation.

2. Use a freight forwarder that offers pre‑payment of duties, so you won’t be surprised at your doorstep.

3. Consolidate purchases into a single shipment when possible; this can sometimes keep the overall value below the duty threshold.

4. Review the retailer’s customs policy—some sellers already factor duties into their listed price.

What to Expect Going Forward

Industry analysts predict that the removal of the exemption will lead to a short‑term dip in low‑value imports, but many shoppers are likely to adapt by planning ahead and budgeting for the extra cost. Retailers, on the other hand, may adjust their pricing structures or offer “duty‑included” options to stay competitive.

Bottom line: The end of the $800 tariff exemption means that U.S. buyers must now be prepared to pay customs duties on many overseas purchases. Being aware of the new rules and taking proactive steps can help prevent unwanted surprises at the door.