DHL Blocks $800+ U.S. Deliveries Over New Customs Rules

DHL, one of the world’s leading international courier services, has temporarily paused deliveries of packages valued over $800 from businesses to individual customers in the United States. The decision is made in response to significant transit delays resulting from recent updates to U.S. customs regulations.

In an official update, DHL explained that new rules introduced on April 5 have triggered multi-day delays for shipments with a value exceeding $800, regardless of their origin. Previously, only packages valued at above $2,500 required formal customs clearance; however, the lowered threshold has led to a sharp increase in clearance volume and processing times.

Shipments valued at $800 or less remain unaffected, whether they are addressed to individuals or businesses. Business-to-business deliveries above that threshold will still be processed, although they may encounter delays as well.

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DHL clarified that this service suspension is temporary and aimed at helping the company navigate the surge in customs processing. Efforts are underway to streamline operations and reduce the backlog.

The policy change is part of a larger trade initiative launched during Donald Trump’s presidency. Among other changes, it removes duty-free privileges for smaller parcels arriving from China—measures widely interpreted as targeting low-cost international e-commerce platforms, such as Shein and Temu, which frequently ship inexpensive goods directly to U.S. consumers.