New US rules for low-value parcels: what is in force and what is only proposed?
Answer
Two separate things. In force: de minimis is suspended; postal parcels use a new postal informal entry that needs a bond and can be filed only by the owner, purchaser or a licensed broker (since July 24, 2026). Mail subject to extra tariffs or partner-agency rules must use Entry Type 13 or a formal entry, now required from January 20, 2027. Proposed only: filing all entries up to $2,500 on or before arrival; comments close December 7, 2026 and no effective date is set.
- Applies to
- Parcels up to $2,500 shipped from China to the US by mail or express; buyers, sellers and forwarders.
In force
| Item | What it says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| De minimis | $800 exemption suspended for mail and all other modes | FR 2026-12669, FR 2026-12670 |
| Postal informal entry | New process for mail up to $2,500 from 2026-07-24 | FR 2026-12669 |
| Who may file | Owner or purchaser, or a licensed broker they appoint; a basic importation bond is required | CBP e-commerce FAQ |
| Entry Type 13 | Mail subject to Section 301/232 duties or partner-agency rules must use Type 13 or formal entry; moved from 2026-10-22 to 2027-01-20 | FR 2026-21600, CBP release |
Proposed only
| Item | Proposal | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Informal entries up to $2,500 filed on or before the date of importation, instead of within 15 days after arrival | FR 2026-20650 |
| Bond | Bond for informal entries (CBP page says all; FR summary says certain; check the full text) | Same |
| Penalty | Minimum $1,000 per violation (proposed) | Same |
| Timeline | Comments close 2026-12-07; final rule and date not set | Same |
What you can do now
- Ask your forwarder: mail or express, who is importer of record, whose bond is used.
- Most Chinese goods carry Section 301 duty, so confirm your forwarder can file Type 13 or formal entries before January 20, 2027.
- Keep accurate description, 10-digit HTS code, quantity, unit value and origin for every shipment.
Still uncertain
- Whether the proposal changes and when it takes effect.
- Bond amount and whether all or only some informal entries need one.