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Parcel Radar 2025
New US import duties since August 2025

How to prepare your shipments

In recent months, there have been many changes to American import policy. Here you can read about what's new and how you can now successfully ship goods to the US.

Since 7 August 2025, new rates apply to EU goods:

  • 15% import duties for most products from the EU
  • 50% remains applicable for aluminium, copper and steel

This change stems from the trade agreement concluded between the EU and the US on 27 July 2025.

End of the $800 exemption

As of 29 August 2025, the American “de minimis rule” has been terminated.

What does this mean?

  • No more tax benefits for shipments up to $800
  • All parcels are now subject to import duties and taxes
  • Many postal companies are temporarily unable to ship to the US

US Customs has not yet established a clear process, which means that the US Postal Service cannot clear or release the parcels.

How to ensure your parcel arrives

To ensure that shipping runs smoothly and to avoid delays as much as possible, it is important that you prepare your shipment well.

1. Clear and detailed description of goods in English:

A description of the goods, together with the HS code (international number that uniquely identifies each product for customs purposes) and the country of origin, provides the authorities with the information they need to identify the products, calculate VAT and import duties, and determine which import controls are necessary.

Examples of descriptions:

❌: Shirt

✅ : 10 men’s T-shirts, 100% cotton

❌: Tafel

✅ : Coffee table with aluminum base and glass top

Descriptions such as “Sample” or “Gift” are not sufficient. For these shipments, describe the goods as described and state the actual value of the goods on the commercial invoice with “Value for customs purposes only”.

If you are unsure about the correct HS code, please contact customs or visit this European Commission website.

 

 

2. State the correct Incoterm:

Incoterms are standardised delivery terms established by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) that define the rights and obligations of the seller and buyer.

Incoterms determine who pays for what and who bears which risks. The most commonly used options are:

  • DAP (Delivery at Place): Shipper pays for transport, recipient pays import duties
  • DDP (Delivery Duty Paid): Shipper pays for everything, including import duties
  • EXW (Ex Works): Recipient arranges and pays for everything from the shipping location

More information about Incoterms can be found on the website of ICC or evofenedex.

3. Include the MID code on all documents

The Manufacturer's Identification Code (MID code) briefly describes who the manufacturer or supplier of the goods is. This code must appear on all documents for the American authorities (CBP, FDA, USDA).

How to create an MID code:


Example:                 
Ozrock
92, Alice Springs Road
Melbourne,
Victoria, Australia
3001                                                                                                                           

Steps:

  1. Country code (2 letters): AU
  2. First 3 letters of first and last name: OZR
  3. Highest numbers in address (max 4): 92
  4. First 3 letters of place name: MEL

Result: AUOZR92MEL

Check whether you need any additional documents

For some products, you will need additional documents, such as:

  • Certificate of Origin
  • Prior Notice
  • Phytosanitary certificate

Where can you check this?

Are you unsure about your shipment? Then contact customs or a logistics partner such as our Wuunder Solutions department, which has experience with the new regulations.

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