DHL suspends standard parcel shipments to US amid new customs rules

German logistics giant DHL announced on Friday that it will halt business shipments of standard parcels to the United States, joining other European postal operators in response to upcoming US customs rule changes.

The move follows Washington’s decision to scrap the “de minimis” exemption—which allows low-value imports under $800 to enter with minimal customs checks—effective August 29. The exemption has long eased cross-border e-commerce, but its suspension is expected to bring higher costs and more paperwork for international shippers.

DHL said August 25 would be the last day it accepts consignments for standard parcels bound for the US, though its premium express delivery service will remain unaffected. The company noted that private customers may continue sending gifts worth up to $100, though these will be subject to tighter scrutiny.

The suspension mirrors similar announcements this week from postal groups in Austria, Belgium, and Scandinavia, all citing the same regulatory shift. On Thursday, Austrian Post said it would stop handling standard US-bound parcels starting Tuesday, highlighting both the end of the exemption and ongoing uncertainty around future customs clearance.

“This tightening poses major challenges for all postal companies worldwide when sending goods to the USA,” Austrian Post said in a statement. Like DHL, it will continue shipping small gifts under $100 and maintain its premium express services.