UK fashion and textile exporters now face new customs and duty requirements after the United States (US) removed its $800 de minimis threshold for commercial shipments. Here, UKFT outlines the latest support from Royal Mail, guidance from the UK Government and a UKFT Guide to the End of the US De Minimis.
The US removed the $800 de minimis threshold for commercial shipments from the UK on 29 August 2025. This means all UK exports to the US, regardless of value, are now subject to duties, tariffs and full customs clearance. The change affects ecommerce and low-value shipments, and businesses must now provide complete and accurate customs data, including origin and HS codes.
To support UK exporters, Royal Mail has launched a new service to help businesses navigate these changes. This includes:
- Customs data support
- Delivery Duties Paid (DDP) options
- Royal Mail postal shipments are not subject to the $80–$200 fixed customs tariff referenced in US Customs guidance as that tariff applies to express courier services, not standard postal channels.
Please note: the current postal exemption is expected to expire in February 2026. After this date, standard customs duties may apply to all shipments, including those sent via Royal Mail. UKFT will continue to monitor developments and update members accordingly.
Find more information on the new Royal Mail service here and the UK Government update here.
UKFT members: A UKFT Guide to the End of the US De Minimis is available to UKFT members on request and outlines what these changes mean for your business. Please contact the UKFT team if you need help reviewing your exports to the US or accessing the member guide by emailing info@ukft.org
Not yet a member?
UKFT MEMBERSHIP
