Global courier and logistics firm DHL has temporarily suspended business-to-consumer (B2C) shipments to individual customers in the United States, citing recent changes to U.S. Customs requirements that lower the threshold for formal customs processing.
The company announced in a notice posted on its official website over the weekend, revealing that from April 5, 2025, any shipment entering the U.S. valued above $800 must now undergo formal customs clearance—a dramatic reduction from the previous $2,500 threshold.
The update, implemented by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), has led to an increase in documentation and inspections, causing significant delivery delays for high-value items.
DHL indicated that the surge in required formal entry procedures is straining its resources and slowing shipment timelines.
“To manage this, starting Monday, April 21, 2025, and until further notice, we will temporarily suspend B2C shipments to private individuals in the U.S. where the declared value exceeds USD 800,” the company stated.
Despite this suspension, DHL clarified that business-to-business (B2B) shipments would continue, although they might experience similar delays due to the added regulatory requirements. Packages valued below $800—regardless of whether they are destined for businesses or individuals—remain unaffected.
“Business-to-business (B2B) shipments to U.S. companies with a declarable value above USD 800 are not affected by the temporary suspension, though they may also face delays.
“This is a temporary measure, and we will share updates as the situation evolves,” DHL stated.
The move poses potential challenges for Nigerian exporters, SMEs, and online retailers who rely on DHL to ship goods to U.S. customers. With the U.S. serving as one of Nigeria’s major trade and remittance destinations, the new policy may interrupt delivery schedules and increase operational hurdles for those engaged in cross-border commerce.
In recent years, there has been a rising demand in North America for African-made goods, particularly through e-commerce platforms. The latest shift in U.S. customs enforcement introduces a fresh compliance barrier for businesses seeking to serve that market.
DHL’s action comes following a broader context of trade tension between the United States and other global economies.
Last week, Hong Kong Post suspended sea mail services to the U.S., accusing American authorities of “bullying” after Washington removed tariff-free status for shipments originating from China and Hong Kong.
The trade standoff continues to intensify, with President Donald Trump recently announcing further tariffs totalling 145% on imports from China and Hong Kong. In response, Beijing imposed counter-tariffs of up to 125% on U.S. goods.
Adding to the upheaval, Hong Kong Post disclosed that it would suspend airmail containing goods to the U.S. from April 27.
Furthermore, beginning May 2, the U.S. government is set to revoke the “de minimis” provision for Chinese and Hong Kong packages, which currently permits tariff-free entry for goods valued under $800. Under the new rules, such packages will face either a 90% duty or a flat fee of $75.
