DHL Express is stopping business-to-consumer (B2C) shipments over $800 headed to the U.S. starting Monday. The company announced the change in an email to customers, pointing to delays caused by new trade regulations that took effect earlier this month.
The rules, introduced by the U.S. government, lower the threshold for formal customs processing from $2,500 to $800. That means any shipment over $800 now requires more paperwork, including detailed documentation, tax ID numbers, and proof of origin.
DHL said it is suspending B2C shipments “until further notice” to manage the backlog. “The changes outlined above have caused a significant increase in formal customs clearances, which we are handling around the clock,” the company told customers. “While we are working diligently to scale up and manage this increase, we are experiencing multi-day transit delays to the U.S. from any origin for shipments with a declared customs value exceeding USD 800.”
Shipments under $800 are not affected. Business-to-business (B2B) shipments over $800 can still be shipped through DHL, but they may experience similar delays.
The policy shift is tied to executive orders signed by President Biden, which also end de minimis treatment—duty-free entry—for goods made in China, Hong Kong, and Macau. These changes fall under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
FedEx, UPS, and other carriers are also making adjustments to comply with the new rules. The Hongkong Post said it will stop sending any items to the U.S. by April 27.
DHL said it’s “actively monitoring the situation” and promised updates as things develop.