The United States is tightening the rules on small, low-value imports and tech companies and online retailers need to pay attention. A new Customs and Border Protection (CBP) guidance issued on 2 April 2025 outlines how Executive Order 14256 (and its amendments) will change the game for “de minimis” shipments (packages under $800).
Below, we break down what this means, why it’s happening, and how tech and e-commerce businesses should prepare in practical ways.
Why Low-Value Shipments Are Under Scrutiny
For years, the U.S. has allowed imports valued at $800 or less to enter without duties or extensive customs paperwork under the so-called de minimis rule (19 U.S.C. §1321). This threshold has been a boon for cross-border e-commerce, letting overseas sellers ship directly to U.S. customers with minimal friction.
However, it also created a loophole that illicit actors have exploited.