Is it possible to import with a 0% tariff after the removal of the U.S. minimum tariff? Yes, here’s how we explain it.

The government has issued an executive action suspending the «de minimis» duty-free treatment for low-value shipments. The presidential order was signed in late July 2025, around July 30.

The universal suspension is scheduled to take effect on August 29, 2025, a date confirmed by operational guides and notices from logistics agents for the application of the new rules on low-value shipments. It is important to note that some partial measures against China and Hong Kong had already been implemented on May 2, 2025. In essence, the exemption that allowed shipments under $800 USD to enter without tariffs is being eliminated universally, after initially being applied to specific countries.

This measure has been reported by sources such as Reuters, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the White House, and various logistics companies.

What This Means for Imports: The Concrete Impact

The suspension of the «de minimis» rule means that all low-value shipments will no longer automatically enter duty-free. Previously, many packages under $800 USD avoided tariffs and customs paperwork. Now, they will be subject to ad valorem tariffs, postal fees, or flat rates, along with additional customs requirements. This translates to an increase in unit costs and longer delivery times.

Impact on Imports from China

China and Hong Kong were the initial targets of these measures, with regulations already in effect since May. Therefore, the impact will be particularly significant for low-priced products from these regions (such as fast-fashion, gadgets, and dropshipping items). As these products are already subject to special duties and procedures, they will see a considerable increase in costs.

Impact on Imports from Japan and Other Countries

For countries considered «non-problematic,» such as Japan, low-value shipments will now also be subject to their normal tariff. While they will not necessarily face extraordinary tariffs, each package will require more paperwork and generate fixed costs, such as postal or administrative fees. This means that, while the per-unit cost may not rise as much as for Chinese products, administrative charges will still impact profitability.

Countries Without Preferential Tariffs

Countries that do not have preferential trade agreements or special treatment could face a base rate or ad valorem tariff. Some reports suggest a baseline rate of around 10% for certain unlisted origins, to which postal and administrative fees would be added.

Side Effects

This measure will have multiple side effects, such as an increase in customer complaints, higher logistics costs, and the need to use customs brokers for the formal entry of goods. Furthermore, marketplaces will need to adjust their systems to calculate final prices more complexly, which will affect cost transparency for consumers.

Strategy 1: Consolidate Your Purchases with a Package Forwarding Service

Instead of placing an order and having it shipped directly to your home in the US, which would require you to pay tariffs and fixed fees for each package, the smartest strategy is to consolidate your purchases.

You can do this by using a package forwarding service like Shipito. These services give you a US mailing address where you can send all your purchases from different Japanese stores.

• The process is simple: You place your orders from Japan and have them sent to the address provided by the forwarding service.
• The key benefit: Once all your purchases have arrived at their warehouse, they will consolidate all the packages into one large box. This drastically reduces costs, as you will only pay tariffs and administrative fees once for a single large shipment, instead of many times for each individual package.

Thus, even though tariffs on the value of your products will still apply, you will save money on processing fees and shipping costs for each package, making your total purchase much more affordable.

Strategy 2: Prioritize Countries with Low Tariffs

A smart way to keep saving is to focus your purchases on countries that have lower customs tariffs or preferential trade agreements with the United States. Japan is an excellent example of this, as it is not considered a «problematic» country in terms of trade restrictions.

For your purchases from Japan, it’s crucial to research the tariff applicable to each product’s tariff code. This classification code (also known as an HTS code) is what determines the tariff you’ll have to pay. The good news is that many Japanese products enjoy preferential tariffs, and the average rate for a large number of items, particularly certain electronics, is low or even 0%. Before you buy, take a few minutes to check this code for your specific product; this simple research can mean a considerable saving.

Strategy 3: Hire a Customs Broker

The suspension of the de minimis rule has made the import process more complex for everyone, including individual buyers and small businesses. For this reason, one of the smartest investments you can make is to hire a customs broker. Although it may seem like an additional expense, their expertise can save you much more money and trouble in the long run.

A good customs broker offers key benefits:

• Avoids fines and delays: They handle tariff classification and documentation to prevent errors that could result in costly fines, delays, or the confiscation of your goods.
• Optimizes your costs: They advise you on whether it is better to declare the tariff per package or to consolidate your shipments, helping you make the most economical decision.
• Speeds up the process: They take care of all the documentation and communication with the CBP (Customs and Border Protection), which expedites the import process.

How much does it cost to hire a customs broker in the US?

• Fixed fee per clearance: Most brokers charge a fixed fee that usually ranges between $75 and $150 USD for each shipment they process. This fee covers document review, tariff classification, filing with the CBP, and coordinating the payment of duties.
• Additional costs: Extra fees may exist for specialized advice or complex classifications (approximately $50-$100 USD). Storage fees may also apply if the merchandise is temporarily held in a warehouse.
• Consolidation discounts: Some brokers offer reduced rates if they handle multiple shipments or if the client consolidates packages with them.

Strategy 4: Customs Value and Tariff Classification (HS code)

The New Reality for Personal Imports

With the suspension of the de minimis rule, the landscape for personal imports has changed dramatically. The main advantage is that, while the $800 USD limit for duty-free entry has been eliminated, you can now import products of any value.

However, the disadvantage of this new system is that any personal import now incurs a series of fixed costs, regardless of the product’s tariff value. Below, we will detail these costs that you will need to account for in the final price of your purchase.

Understanding Import Costs: What Fees and Charges Apply When Shipping to the U.S.?

1. Customs Broker Fee (Fixed)

A customs broker is a licensed professional or company that helps manage the import process with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The broker ensures correct classification of goods, prepares documentation, and handles clearance. Their fee is a fixed amount per shipment, typically ranging from $75 to $150. This fee is separate from official government fees and shipping charges.

2. Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)

The MPF is an official federal fee charged by CBP for processing imports. It is calculated as 0.3464% of the declared shipment value, with a minimum fee of $27.23 and a maximum of $528.33 per shipment. This fee applies to almost all shipments entering the U.S., regardless of shipment size or value.

3. Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)

The HMF applies only to shipments entering the U.S. via maritime transport (by sea). It funds the maintenance and operation of U.S. ports and is calculated as 0.125% of the declared shipment value. This fee does not apply to air or postal shipments.

4. Courier Handling Fee

Courier companies such as FedEx, DHL, or UPS charge a handling fee for managing customs clearance and final delivery. This fee typically ranges from $20 to $50 per shipment, but can vary based on the courier and shipment size. This charge is separate from customs broker fees and government fees.

The Most Important Step: Understanding HS Codes for a 0% Tariff

Now that you know the fixed costs, the most important step to reduce your import expenses is to understand how tariff codes work. The HS code (Harmonized System) is an international classification system that organizes goods traded around the world.

In the United States, this code is extended to 10 digits and is known as the HTSUS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States). It is this very code that determines the tariff you’ll need to pay on your product. All official information on tariffs can be found in the HTS guide, published by the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC). Mastering this concept is the key to finding out if your purchase from Japan can have a low or even 0% tariff.

The Secret to Low Tariffs: The U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement

The secret to drastically reducing tariffs on your purchases from Japan lies in a key agreement. Many Japanese products benefit from reduced or zero tariffs under the bilateral trade agreement signed between the United States and Japan in 2019.

To take advantage of this benefit, you must follow these two steps:

1. Identify the correct HS code: This is your product’s classification code. You can use an online HTS search tool, like Flexport’s: https://tariffs.flexport.com/.
2. Verify the tariff rate: Once you have the code, check the exact rate that applies to your product. Be sure to check both the general tariff rate and the preferential rate under the bilateral agreement. The difference between the two can mean a considerable saving, so it is vital that you ensure the preferential rate is the one that applies.

What to Do If Your Product Has No Preferential Tariff: The «Used» Strategy

When a product does not benefit from a reduced or zero tariff, there is a legal strategy to pay less. The secret lies in the crucial distinction between a «used» product and a «refurbished» one.

Why «Used» Is Key (and Why «Refurbished» Is Not)

For Customs (CBP), a refurbished (renewed, remanufactured) item is a used product that has been repaired or restored to a like-new condition. This causes it to be classified with the same tariff as a new item, as it competes with new products in the market.

Conversely, a used item is one that has been owned by a consumer and has visible physical or functional wear. Some products in this category have a specific tariff subheading that allows them to enjoy a reduced or even 0% tariff. This is the key to saving money.

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing «Used» Products

To apply this strategy correctly and avoid problems with customs, follow these steps:

1. Verify the HTSUS subheading: Use the official search tool (https://hts.usitc.gov) to find your product’s HS code. Check if there is a specific subheading for «used» or «second-hand» with a lower tariff.
2. Comply with the customs definition of «used»: The item must have been used by an end-consumer and have obvious signs of use. It must not have gone through a remanufacturing process that returns it to a factory-new state.
3. Prepare the necessary documentation: For customs to accept the classification, ensure your shipment includes:
   • A commercial invoice with the word «Used» in the product description.
   • A declaration from the seller confirming the item was used by a final consumer.
   • Photos showing signs of use (if requested by CBP).
   • A declared value that reflects the actual, depreciated market price of a used item.
4. Consider the risks: Declaring a product as used when it is not is customs fraud, which can result in serious fines or confiscation. Work with a customs broker who knows how to handle «used» classifications to avoid errors.

Japan has the largest market for used products in the world. Due to the high turnover of new items, it is possible to get authentic used products at much lower prices. This not only allows you to buy more within your budget but also gives you the opportunity to legitimately declare a depreciated purchase value, which reduces the amount on which tariffs are applied.

Does it Matter if the Shipment is «Personal» or «Commercial»?

The status of an import as personal or commercial depends on other factors, such as the quantity, frequency, and declared purpose of the product, not just its value.

• Personal imports are usually for personal use and not for resale. While tariffs still apply, the process and documentation can be less strict.
• Even small, high-value shipments can still be considered personal, but there is no longer an automatic tariff exemption.

What is the limit for personal imports in the US?

Updated Answer as of August 29, 2025: There is no minimum value limit for personal imports that are exempt from tariffs. This means that any shipment arriving in the U.S. may be subject to tariffs and customs fees, regardless of its value.

Conclusion: Strategic Importing from Japan to the U.S. after August 29, 2025

The recent elimination of the de minimis exemption marks a significant change in the import landscape. This change means that all shipments, regardless of their value, are now subject to tariffs, fees, and stricter clearance processes.

However, thanks to guides like this one, the new reality does not have to be a barrier. Tariff rates on many Japanese technology and consumer products remain very low or even zero, which mitigates the financial impact.

To navigate this new environment effectively, importers must:

• Understand and accurately classify products using HS codes to ensure the correct application of tariffs.
• Account for all fixed and variable costs.
• Leverage the benefits of trade agreements and exemptions for «used» products.
• Consider partnering with a trusted customs broker to avoid costly errors and expedite clearance.

This emerging environment presents both challenges and opportunities. Those who adopt a well-informed, strategic approach will gain a competitive advantage by optimizing costs and ensuring smooth import operations.