What is the $800 rule?

Is the U.S. eliminate $800 tariff exemption on international packages?

The US tariff exemption for package shipments valued under $800 officially ended on Friday, raising costs and disrupting supply chain models for a range of businesses, with Trump administration officials saying the change would be permanent.

Do you pay tariffs under $800?

Yes, as of August 29, 2025, the U.S. has ended the "de minimis" exemption that previously allowed most imported items valued under $800 to enter duty-free. Nearly all shipments, regardless of value, are now subject to tariffs, taxes, and fees, with rates often ranging from 10% to 50% depending on the country of origin.

Do tariffs apply to goods under 800 dollars?

Key Takeaways. The de minimis policy exempted imported packages worth less than $800 from U.S. taxes, duties, and tariffs. The Trump administration eliminated the exemption in 2025. Packages are subject to a minimum 10% surcharge, while those from high-tariff countries like China may be charged more.

Are Chinese goods under 800 tariffs?

U.S. suspended the de minimis exemption for China and Hong Kong effective May 2, 2025. Goods from China and Hong Kong valued at or under $800 became subject to an ad valorem rate of duty or a postal fee starting May 2, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. ET.

How much can I bring into U.S. without declaring?

You can bring an unlimited amount of money into the U.S., but you must declare any amount over $𝟏𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎. This limit applies to the total of all cash, traveler's checks, and monetary instruments across your entire group or family.

How do I avoid customs fees?

Here are 7 of the best ways to do just that—and start taking control of your importing expenses.

1. Use the Correct HTS Codes. ...
2. Leverage Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) ...
3. Apply the First Sale Rule. ...
4. Claim Duty Drawback. ...
5. Consider Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs) ...
6. Implement Tariff Engineering. ...
7. Maintain Strict Compliance to Avoid Penalties.

Can I pack food in my suitcase to the USA?

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible.

Do I need to declare duty-free items at US customs?

You must declare all items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States, including gifts for other people as well as items you bought for yourself. This includes duty-free items purchased in foreign countries, as well as any merchandise you intend to sell or use in your business.

Can I take alcohol in my suitcase to the USA?

Alcohol or liquor is permitted if it's in your checked baggage or purchased after the security checkpoint for your carry-on, as long as it meets carry-on guidelines and the following: Alcohol content may not exceed 140 proof. Up to 5 liters of alcohol per person between 48 and 140 proof is permitted.

Which goods are exempted from customs duty?

2. Exemptions from Customs Duty in India

• Nature of Goods (e.g., essential commodities, medical supplies, capital goods)
• User-Specific Exemptions (e.g., government agencies, SEZ units, R&D institutions)
• Purpose-Specific Exemptions (e.g., project imports, duty-free schemes)

What items will be scarce due to China tariffs?

Footwear: The U.S. is highly reliant on China for shoes. It imports $9.8 billion's worth, or 36% of footwear sold stateside. Sportswear giant Adidas for one, has warned that it expects to raise prices for U.S. customers because of tariffs. Cutlery: Dinner utensils manufactured in China could also start becoming scarce.

Will I have to pay tariffs if I order something from China?

Yes, as of 2026, you will likely pay duties, taxes, or fees on items ordered from China. The "de minimis" exemption, which previously allowed duty-free entry for items under $800, was suspended for shipments from China and Hong Kong in May 2025 and for all countries in August 2025.

What to stick up on before tariffs?

Tariffs or not, buying foods that you regularly consume in bulk is a smart cost-saving plan when done correctly. Stick with purchasing things that you use regularly, whether it's a particular cut of meat you use in a favorite weeknight dinner or some frozen fruit that's key to your morning smoothie.

What happens if I don't pay import duties?

If you do not pay import fees, your package will be held by customs. Ultimately, your order will either be destroyed, auctioned, or returned to the sender. You will also face several financial and logistical consequences.

Do consumers really pay for tariffs?

Yes, consumers ultimately pay for most of the cost of tariffs.

How do I know if I need to pay tariffs?

You will owe a tariff if you are importing goods into the United States, as all incoming shipments are now subject to duties. Whether you pay it upfront or upon delivery depends on how your purchase is processed.

How do I know if I have to pay import duty?

You generally have to pay import duties if the goods entering the country exceed the "de minimis" threshold or if your item is subject to special tariffs. For the U.S., most imported items valued over $𝟖𝟎𝟎 are subject to duties, taxes, and a merchandise processing fee.

What items can be exempted from import duty?

Duty/tax exemption is given only for raw materials/components and machinery/equipment used directly in manufacturing activities of the company.