De Minimis Rule Changes: How They Impact Cross-Border Ecommerce
Understand the de minimis suspension starting August 29, 2025, planning implications for low-value shipments, and how sellers should model new cost exposure.
Quick Answer
As of August 29, 2025, duty-free de minimis treatment for low-value shipments to the U.S. has been broadly suspended. Sellers who relied on duty-free entry for shipments under $800 must now model duty, MPF, and brokerage for every shipment.
Why It Matters
Before the suspension, sellers shipping under $800 bypassed formal customs. Now every shipment faces duty and fixed clearance costs — fundamentally changing unit economics for low-AOV cross-border ecommerce.
Formula / Framework
Example Scenario
$200 shipment that previously entered duty-free.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Previous cost | $200.00 |
| Duty at 8% | $16.00 |
| MPF + Brokerage | $56.67 |
| New Total | $272.67 (+36%) |
Cost Components
| Component | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | 0-25% | Now applies to previously exempt shipments. |
| MPF | $31.67-$614.35 | Minimum $31.67 per formal entry. |
| Brokerage | $25-$125 | Required for formal clearance. |
Common Mistakes
- Continuing to price assuming duty-free entry
- Not accounting for MPF minimum on small shipments
- Assuming suspension is temporary
Seller Checklist
- Re-price all affected products
- Add duty, MPF, brokerage to cost model
- Consolidate small shipments to reduce per-unit fees
- Update checkout messaging
- Monitor CBP for updates
Ready to calculate your costs?
Try De Minimis Impact Calculator →Official Source Note
Effective Aug 29, 2025 per Federal Register. Monitor cbp.gov for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the suspension permanent?
Indefinite with no announced end date. Plan for it to remain.
Does it apply to all countries?
Targets certain countries including China. Check CBP for current list.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-01