USPS Temporally Suspends Services for Incoming Chinese Packages

Temu Fan? Prepare for Higher Prices

February 5, 2025 – The United States Postal Service (USPS) announced a temporary suspension of incoming parcels from China and Hong Kong. This decision coincided with escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China, marked by the imposition of retaliatory tariffs by both nations.

The suspension has significant implications for the e-commerce sector, particularly for companies like Shein and Temu, which rely on shipping low-value packages directly to U.S. consumers. These businesses have benefited from the de minimis rule, which exempts packages valued under $800 from import duties. However, recent policy changes have eliminated this exemption for Chinese-origin packages, introducing additional tariffs and processing fees.

The USPS has not provided a specific reason for the suspension, but it is widely believed to be linked to these recent policy changes and the broader context of U.S.-China trade relations. The halt in package acceptance has caused disruptions in the e-commerce industry, with companies scrambling to adjust their logistics and supply chains.

This development underscores the complex interplay between international trade policies and global commerce, highlighting the need for businesses to remain adaptable in the face of evolving geopolitical landscapes.