What Happened?

If you import goods through international mail, the deadline to meet new customs entry requirements has been pushed back from October 22 to January 20, 2027. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the extension in a final rule, according to a Legis1 review of federal customs regulations. ​

The underlying rule, issued June 24 as an interim final rule, indefinitely suspended the de minimis administrative exemption for merchandise arriving through the international postal network and created a new postal informal entry process.

Three categories of shipments are affected:

  • Partner agency requirements: Merchandise subject to requirements from partner government agencies.
  • Tariff chapter duties: Merchandise subject to duties under Chapter 98 or Chapter 99 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
  • Duty-free claims: Merchandise claiming duty-free treatment under Chapter 98 of the HTSUS or under a Free Trade Agreement.

Why Does it Matter to Me?

Importers, brokers, and logistics providers in the international postal network now have until January 20 to meet formal-entry requirements for certain merchandise. CBP said the extra time was needed because importers and logistics providers must update internal systems and build the technology infrastructure the new requirements demand. The agency also warned that skipping the extension "could lead to disruptions in the flow of important international postal shipments destined to Americans."

Both Sides, Now

Reuters reported in October 2026 that the rule had "raised alarm" over potential higher prices and reduced access to imported prescription drugs. USA TODAY reported that the change could block.

The June 24 rule was adopted consistent with two executive orders: one issued July 30, 2025, titled "Suspending Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment For All Countries," as modified by a February 20 order. CBP issued the compliance extension without a public comment period, invoking a good-cause exception on the ground that a comment period would have run past the October 22 deadline.

What Happens Next?

An optional electronic filing process called Entry Type 13, for eligible shipments valued at $2,500 or less, has been available since September 22 and remains open during the extended window as an alternative to full formal entry.

The indefinite suspension of the de minimis exemption for postal merchandise took effect on June 24, and importers, brokers, and logistics providers in the international postal network have until January 20, 2027, to comply with formal-entry requirements for certain merchandise.

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