We recognize that shifts in trade policy often raise questions. Please know that our team is here to keep you informed and support you in navigating any impact these changes may bring. If you have any questions or concerns about the new tariff program and what it means for your business, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help. All countries listed in Annex I of the reciprocal duty tariffs, except for China & Hong Kong, are no longer subject to the reciprocal duty tariff amounts listed in Annex I during the 90-day pause but are subject to a base duty tariff of 10%. The 90-day pause ended on July 9, 2025, at which time the reciprocal duty tariffs will be reinstated for countries that have not negotiated a deal with the U.S. Administration.
China and Hong Kong manufactured products continue to be subject to the 20% additional tariff when applicable to the HTS codes involved and all products unless exempt are subject to the 125% duty tariff. To access the HTSUS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States) go to the U.S. International Trade Commission HTSUS Tool website at Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Additionally, effective August 29th, the De Minimis exemption for low-value imports was eliminated. Previously, import shipments valued at $800 or less did not incur duties, resulting in a significant adjustment for those now required to comply with new regulations. To assist all customers in navigating these changes, regardless of shipment value, we have developed some U.S. import duty FAQs and a resource list to provide clarity and support:
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Informal Entry?
- An informal entry is a simplified customs clearance process for lower-value shipments of $800.01 to $2,500.00 USD with lower-risk goods that do not require a surety bond or power of attorney paperwork. With the elimination of de minimis, shipments valued up to $2,500.00 will enter into the U.S. via informal entry and may be subject to duties and taxes.
What is Formal Entry?
- A formal entry is the full customs clearance procedure required for higher-value imports of $2,500.01 or greater or goods subject to special import restrictions, quotas, or licensing. It involves a surety bond, detailed documentation, and power of attorney paperwork.
What is Tariff Stacking?
- Tariff stacking happens when multiple layers of import duties or taxes are applied to the same product, often because of overlapping trade rules, country-of-origin requirements, or changes in trade agreements.
Here are some additional resources to assist you:
- MyGTS Tariff Code Lookup & Estimated Landed Cost Calculator | DHL Group
- Navigating the End of U.S. De Minimis | DHL Group
- Current Status of U. S. Tariffs (September 2025) | DHL Group
- How do I pay my US customs and duty taxes on imports? | Preferred Shipping
- DHL MyBill Overview | Preferred Shipping
- Disputing Duty and Tax Charges | Preferred Shipping
- Adjusted Reciprocal Tariff Percentage for Country of Manufacture Origin | Annex I
- Modified Chapter 99 Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) | Annex II
- Suspending Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment for All Countries | The White House
- Additional Duties on Products of China and Hong Kong
- Amendment to Reciprocal Tariffs and Updated Duties
- Annex I- Country Duty Tariff Listing
- Annex II-HTS Code Listing of Products Subject to the Duty Tariff
- Annex III- Chapter 99 HTS Codes
- Further Amendment to Duties on China for Low-Value Imports
- Regulating Imports with a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Deficits
- Additional Tariffs for Imports from Canada & Mexico
- New Requirement for Imports from China or Hong Kong
- DHL Express 2025 US Regulatory Changes Overview
If you have questions, you can contact your sales representative or our Customer Service Team at customerservice@preferredship.com or 1-800-827-7987.
