August 29, 2025, will be an important turning point for all e-commerce companies exporting to the US. With the new decree signed by the US President, the De Minimis customs exemption applied to e-commerce shipments under $800 has been suspended worldwide. This change is of critical importance, especially for small and medium-sized e-exporters.
What is De Minimis?
De Minimis was an exemption system in the US that ensured no customs duty was applied to imports under $800. Thanks to this regulation, low-value products, especially from China and other Asian countries, could enter the US duty-free. However, this system has become controversial over the years due to abuse and security concerns.
Why Was This Change Made?
According to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data:
• The number of De Minimis shipments, which was 134 million in 2015,
• Reached 1.36 billion in 2024.
While this dramatic increase exceeded the capacity of the US customs system, illegal products, counterfeiting, and security threats also increased through this route. In addition, the use of this exemption by large e-commerce companies as a tax advantage and cost-cutting tool brought debates about unfairness in the domestic market.
What is Changing? (As of August 29, 2025)
Now all shipments under $800 from all countries will be subject to full customs duties.
New regulations to be applied according to the shipping method;
✉️ Products Arriving via International Post:
• Fixed Tax (6-month temporary implementation):
A tax between $80 and $200 per product will be applied. The tax rate will be determined under the IEEPA based on the country of origin of the product.
• Ad Valorem Tax (after 6 months):
A percentage tax will be applied based on the product value. Rates will again vary depending on the country of origin.
📦 All Other Logistic Routes (Cargo, courier, etc.):
• De Minimis is completely abolished. All shipments are now subject to applicable US customs duties.
Who is Exempt?
Some exceptions remain valid:
• Personal effects of US travelers up to $200,
• Individual gifts under $100.
What Should E-Export Sellers Do?
This decision holds both risks and opportunities for e-exporters selling from Turkey to the US. Here are the recommendations:
🔍 Recalculate Costs:
Review your product prices and profitability according to the new taxation system.
🚛 Create Customs-Compliant Shipping Plans:
Working with logistics partners specialized in customs processes saves time and costs.
🧾 Digitalize ETGB and Customs Documents:
Digital tracking of declarations and shipment documents prevents potential delays.
🗂️ Automate All Processes:
You can increase efficiency by using end-to-end tracking systems from order to shipping.
Conclusion: The Duty-Free Era is Over, Competition Starts Now
The US market is still the world's largest e-commerce arena. The removal of the De Minimis exemption may make competition fairer; but it may also create challenges for small sellers by increasing logistics costs.
As a reliable partner for e-exporters in this new process, digital logistics platforms like Navlungo continue to offer fast, transparent, and customs-compliant shipping solutions.
📢 Are you ready for the new era in your shipments to the US?
By working with Navlungo, you can deliver your products to the US market safely without losing time in customs processes.
