• Multiple European postal services halt U.S. shipments over new tariff regulations.
• The "de minimis" exemption for low-value packages will end, introducing new compliance challenges.
• Confusion and lack of clarity regarding duties have led to immediate suspensions.

Multiple European postal services, including those from Germany, France, and Italy, announced the suspension of many shipments to the United States due to confusion over new tariff regulations set to take effect on August 29. This change follows a decree by President Trump that abolishes the "de minimis" exemption, allowing packages worth less than $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free, according to Le Monde, CBS News, and South China Morning Post.

Postal operators are halting shipments due to unresolved questions regarding the collection of customs duties and the data transmission to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. DHL, the largest shipping provider in Europe, stated that it would no longer accept business packages destined for the U.S., citing the need for "further clarification" on new rules, according to Los Angeles Times and NPR.

On August 29, most commercial parcels will incur tariffs as well as stricter customs procedures, leading several nations, including Denmark, Austria, and the UK, to make immediate changes to their shipping protocols. The Royal Mail has indicated that it will halt U.S. services, with items over $100 facing a 10% duty, according to India Times, and TRT Global.

Amid fears that confusion will lead to significant delays and increased logistical costs, PostEurop, representing 51 European operators, has warned that these changes may force all members to halt shipments unless clarity is achieved by the end of the month, according to HuffPost, India Times, and Le Monde.