Update 2/7/25 

President Trump has reinstated the de minimis exemption for Chinese imports—at least temporarily. The exemption, which allows duty-free entry for shipments valued under $800, was previously revoked as part of a broader tariff package. However, following significant industry pushback and concerns over customs processing delays, the administration has reinstated de minimis eligibility until the Department of Commerce determines that Customs’ systems can effectively process and collect tariff revenue on these shipments.

Under the revised rule, duty-free de minimis treatment will remain in place for qualifying imports from China, but will be revoked once the Secretary of Commerce notifies the President that CBP has the infrastructure in place to efficiently manage the processing and duty collection for these goods. This means that while importers have a temporary reprieve, the policy is subject to change once enforcement capabilities catch up. For logistics companies, the uncertainty surrounding de minimis underscores the need for strong contingency plans, bulk import strategies, and partnerships with freight service providers to navigate shifting trade policies.

The global trade landscape is changing fast, and businesses that move freight—whether by land, sea, or air—need to stay ahead. The latest round of U.S. tariff adjustments, along with the removal of the de minimis exemption, is already creating challenges for importers, exporters, and logistics professionals alike. These shifts mean higher costs, longer processing times, and more pressure on supply chains.

As of February 4, 2025, the United States has imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, prompting China to announce retaliatory tariffs set to take effect on February 10. Meanwhile, the de minimis exemption, which allowed duty-free imports under $800, has been removed—a major change impacting businesses relying on small parcel shipments. Companies moving e-commerce orders, consolidated freight, and direct-to-consumer imports must rethink their supply chain strategies.

What the End of De Minimis Means for You

For years, the de minimis exemption helped keep low-value shipments moving quickly through U.S. customs with minimal red tape. By eliminating this exemption, every import—no matter how small—will now be subject to duties, taxes, and full customs processing. This means:

• Higher landed costs for businesses relying on international direct fulfillment.

• Longer clearance times due to increased customs inspections.

• More paperwork and compliance hurdles for freight forwarders, truckers, and warehouse operators handling small parcel imports.

If you’ve been relying on the de minimis exemption to avoid duties, now is the time to rework your import strategy. Consolidated shipments, bonded warehousing, and alternative distribution hubs may become necessary to offset new costs and delays.

A Logistics Partner Who’s Got Your Back

With these regulatory shifts in motion, companies moving freight need a forwarder who understands the impact of these changes and knows how to work through them. Whether you’re an importer trying to control costs, a trucker looking at increased border wait times, or a warehouse operator preparing for higher storage demands, having the right logistics team in your corner is critical.

At JA Group, we’re tracking these changes and working with our clients to adjust freight strategies in real-time. From customs brokerage and warehousing to drayage and long-haul trucking, we ensure your shipments move efficiently—even when the rules shift overnight.

With shifting trade policies and rising costs, having the right logistics team in your corner is more important than ever. Contact JA Group today to discuss how removing the de minimis exemption and new tariffs could impact your freight and how to keep your shipments moving efficiently.