A surge in customs red tape has forced DHL Express to suspend high-value deliveries to the US due to new tariffs, while a loophole closure will impact businesses like Shein and Temu.
High-Value Deliveries Suspended Due to US Tariffs
DHL Express has announced that it will temporarily suspend DHL Express‘s deliveries of packages worth over $800 to the United States due to the introduction of Donald Trump‘s new tariff regime. The delivery giant cited a ‘significant increase’ in red tape at customs as the reason for the suspension, which will take effect on Monday.
DHL Express is a German logistics company specializing in express mail and package services.
Founded in 1969, it has grown to become one of the world's leading logistics providers, with operations in over 220 countries.
DHL Express offers a range of services, including same-day delivery, time-definite delivery, and customs clearance.
The company operates a vast network of airports, hubs, and sorting facilities, ensuring fast and reliable transportation of goods worldwide.
Impact on Businesses and Consumers
The change has caused a surge in formal customs clearances, with DHL Express handling these around the clock. While business-to-business shipments will still be processed, they may face delays. The company has assured that packages worth less than $800 can still be sent to the US with minimal checks.
Loophole Closure and Its Consequences
The White House is set to close a loophole allowing low-value packages (under $800) from China and Hong Kong to enter the US without incurring any duties on May 2. This change will impact companies like Shein and Temu, which have warned that they will increase prices due to recent changes in global trade rules and tariffs.
Shein and Temu have previously stated that they will be affected by the removal of the ‘de minimis’ rule, which allowed low-value packages to enter the US without duties. The Trump administration has claimed that this loophole was being used to hide illicit substances and conceal the true contents of shipments sent to the US.
Shein is a Chinese e-commerce company that specializes in fast-fashion online retail.
Founded in 2008, the company has rapidly expanded its global presence with over 36 million active users across 220 countries.
Shein offers affordable clothing and accessories for men and women, often replicating high-end designer styles at significantly lower prices.
Global Reaction
Beijing has denied that China is responsible for the synthetic opioid crisis in the US, stating that it is a ‘US problem’ with strictest drug policies in the world. Hong Kong Post has also suspended packages sent to the US by sea and will stop accepting parcels destined for America from April 27.
The suspension of high-value deliveries highlights the growing complexity and challenges faced by logistics companies due to changing global trade rules and tariffs.
