Effective April 21, 2025, DHL Express has temporarily suspended global business-to-consumer (B2C) shipments exceeding $800 to the United States. This decision is a direct response to new US customs regulations that have lowered the threshold for formal entry processing, creating delays and increased workloads for the logistics giant.

New customs rules trigger DHL suspension

Updated US customs rules, which President Trump implemented on April 5, 2025, now require formal entry processing for all shipments valued over $800. The previous threshold was just $2,500. This change has led to a surge in shipments requiring more complex customs clearance procedures, overwhelming DHL's processing capacity.

Formal entry processing involves more extensive paperwork, duties, and inspections than simplified processes for lower-value shipments. The increased scrutiny and documentation requirements have resulted in multi-day delays for shipments exceeding the $800 limit, prompting DHL to take action to manage the situation.

Who does the suspension affect?

While the suspension primarily affects B2C shipments, businesses are not entirely immune. Business-to-business (B2B) shipments to US companies with a declared value above $800 aren't included in the suspension but will likely face delays. This suspension does not affect B2B and B2C shipments with declared values under $800.

How long will this suspension last?

DHL has stated that this is a temporary measure and that they are working to scale up their clearance capacity to handle the increased workload. However, the DHL website lists the suspension as "until further notice," with no estimated end date.

Now what?

Given these developments, businesses must proactively manage their shipping costs and logistics. Here are some recommendations:

●       Negotiation: Now is a great time to review and renegotiate shipping contracts (ShipRx can help!) Explore options for optimizing costs while minimizing potential disruptions.
●       Diversify shipping options: Use multiple carriers to reduce reliance on any individual provider and mitigate the impact of any single carrier's disruptions.
●       Utilize UPS Global Checkout: The new UPS Global Checkout offers near-real-time updates to its system for policy changes, international tax laws, and duties and tariffs— giving shippers real-time insights into fees owed.
●       Proactive communication: Keep customers informed about potential delays and any changes to shipping procedures.
●       Stay informed: Monitor changes in customs regulations and trade policies that may affect your business.
●       Seek expert advice: Consult with logistics professionals (like ShipRx) to diversify your shipping strategies and customs brokers to ensure compliance and navigate the complexities of international shipping.

Now is the time for negotiations

The current situation underscores the importance of having flexible and well-negotiated shipping contracts. ShipRx can help you proactively manage your shipping arrangements by negotiating contracts with the carriers, minimizing disruptions, and maintaining business as usual— no matter what new taxes and tariffs arise.

Contact us today for a free Savings Analysis and discover how the experts at ShipRx can help you save money on shipping through contract negotiations and parcel audits. Trade regulations haven't seen their last evolution. Get ahead with ShipRx.