New import regulations and their impact on webshops
Executive Order 14257
Dated: 22 October 2025
Since 29 August 2025, new U.S. import regulations (Executive Order 14257) have come into effect. This means that customs duties and taxes must now be paid on all shipments to the United States, regardless of the value of the parcel. The current exemption for ‘low-value’ shipments (the de minimis threshold) has been removed.
Background of the decision
The order was signed by President Donald J. Trump and follows earlier measures introduced in response to the influx of illegal drugs. According to the White House, this new regulation is necessary to enhance security and prevent abuse by foreign sellers. The U.S. government has stated that fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are now being imported through multiple countries, making a global approach essential.
The United States will only accept goods from abroad if it is known in advance what is inside the parcel and the applicable import duties have been prepaid.
Import duties are calculated based on the product value (including shipping costs), the country of origin, and the commodity code (HS code).
What is changing?
For many webshops, this marks a significant shift: commercial shipments up to USD 800 are no longer exempt from customs duties. This applies to goods from all countries of origin. For shipments sent through the international postal network, two options currently remain:
- A duty based on a percentage that depends on the country of origin (ad valorem), or
- A fixed fee of between USD 80 and 200 per shipment, valid during the six-month transition period (until 1 March 2026).
What does this mean for you?
If you use Hexspoor E-fulfilment as your global fulfilment partner, Hexspoor will handle all required customs documentation and submit the import declaration for all your shipments outside the EU, including those to the United States.
- It is therefore crucial that we have the correct product data, such as:
- HS code (commodity code)
- Country of Origin
- Customer Price
Currently, express carriers are experiencing major issues at the U.S. border. Parcels are being held due to incomplete or incorrect customs documentation, and some shipments are even being returned or destroyed (status as of 22 October 2025).
Option: Shipping DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)
American consumers are increasingly confronted with unexpected costs upon delivery (in DAP shipments). Many webshop owners report customer complaints, poor reviews, and additional costly returns as a result.
To avoid this, Hexspoor also offers the option to ship DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). In this case, you as the seller cover the customs duties and taxes in advance. Hexspoor will prepay these costs on your behalf and invoice them to you later.
A professional fulfilment partner
With more than 25 years of experience in international shipping, Hexspoor can help you navigate these new challenges for your U.S. shipments.
For more information, please contact us at mail@hexspoor.nl