On 23rd August, the Department of Post announced a temporary stoppage of shipment of postal parcels to the United States, starting from August 25. The decision comes after the U.S. government introduced new customs rules that make it difficult for postal services around the world to continue normal deliveries.
The change is linked to Executive Order No. 14324, signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on July 30, 2025. This order removes the duty-free exemption for packages valued up to $800. Until now, individuals and businesses could send low-value goods to the U.S. without paying any customs duty, which made cross-border trade easier and cheaper.
Starting August 29, 2025, however, all packages, regardless of value, will be taxed under a new tariff system. The U.S. government says the measure is meant to improve border security, prevent illegal shipments, and protect American industries from cheap imports. But for sellers and buyers worldwide, it means higher costs and more complicated shipping.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is in charge of implementing the order, including collecting and remitting duties. But postal operators say the agency has not provided clear guidelines. Airlines that carry mail have also said that they are not prepared to handle the changes. Because of this confusion, many countries have decided to suspend shipments to the U.S. until the process becomes clear.
India’s Post Decision
According to the Department of Posts, India will stop accepting most postal articles to the U.S., only letters and documents, and gift items worth up to $100 are exempted. All other parcels, including e-commerce goods and business shipments, will not be accepted as of now. India Post also said that people who have already booked parcels that cannot be delivered will be given refunds.
Global Issue
India is not alone in this move. Postal operators in Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Italy, and several Nordic countries have also announced suspensions or restrictions on packages to the U.S. They explained further that without a clear system from U.S. authorities, they cannot continue services.
This disruption is expected to affect millions of shipments worldwide, especially goods ordered via e-commerce. Many small businesses and artisans who sell products to customers in the U.S. fear losses because of higher costs and delays.
The U.S. government says the new rules are necessary to improve national security and stop illegal goods, such as drugs, from entering the country. But for now, the lack of clarity has confused the international postal system.
India Post said it is in close contact with U.S. officials and international partners to find a solution. “Every effort is being made to restart services at the earliest,” the department stated.
Until then, customers in India who wish to send packages to the U.S. will have to wait or use private courier services, which are not yet affected by the suspension.
