Australia Post says it has temporarily suspended most parcel deliveries to the United States and Puerto Rico after the US government scrapped duty-free allowances on low-value imports.
Key Takeaways
- From today and “until further notice”, Aus Post will suspend most parcel deliveries to the United States and Puerto Rico from August 26.
- The suspension follows US government changes ending the “de minimis” rule, which previously exempted parcels under US$800 from import duties.
- From August 29, all parcels arriving in the US must have duties and taxes prepaid before shipment.
- The suspension affects Business Contract, MyPost Business and retail customers sending goods, but letters, documents and gifts under US$100 remain unaffected.
- Similar suspensions have been announced by postal operators in Europe and Asia, including in South Korea, Italy and Norway.
Key Background
Australian businesses have been cut off from sending most parcels to the United States after sudden changes to US trade rules forced Australia Post to suspend services.
The government-owned postal service confirmed on Tuesday it has stopped accepting most parcels bound for the US and Puerto Rico, effective immediately. Letters, documents and gifts valued under US$100 are the only exceptions.
The decision comes ahead of August 29, when the US scraps its “de minimis” exemption – a long-standing rule that allowed goods worth up to US$800 to enter tariff-free.
The policy change sits within Donald Trump’s broader push for “reciprocal tariffs.” A 10 per cent levy now applies to Australian goods entering the US, alongside existing 50 per cent tariffs on steel, aluminium and copper
Crucial Quote
“We are disappointed we have had to take this action, however due to the complex and rapidly evolving situation, a temporary partial suspension has been necessary,” said Gary Starr, Executive General Manager, Australia Post.
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