E.O. 14388: Duty-Free Suspension

Summary

Keeps the rule that small packages coming into the country must have taxes paid on them, removing the tax-free exception they used to have.

What problem does this solve?

The U.S. faced security and economic threats from untaxed small imports, and previous rules to fix this were challenged. This order makes sure the tax-free status for these small packages stays suspended and creates a clear system to collect taxes on them.

Who does this affect?

Importers
Online shoppers
International shipping carriers

What does this order do?

Continues suspension of tax-free small shipments

Ends the 'de minimis' rule that allowed small-value shipments to enter the U.S. without paying taxes. All shipments are now subject to duties, regardless of value.

Sets new rules for international mail

Creates a special process for collecting taxes on items sent through the mail. Shipping carriers must collect and send the tax payments to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Applies a temporary import tax

Places a temporary tax on all dutiable postal items. This tax rate is set by a separate order and applies until a new system is ready or the tax expires.

Requires formal entry for non-postal shipments

Requires shipments not sent by mail to be formally filed in the government's Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system, a step that was not needed for small items before.

What is the real world impact?

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Protects U.S. businesses from foreign competition

Removes the tax-free exception for small packages, making foreign goods more expensive. This helps American companies compete on price.

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Addresses national security threats

Responds to national emergencies like the flow of illegal drugs and opioids. These items are often sent in small packages that previously avoided taxes and close inspection.

When does this start?

The rules in this order apply to goods entering the U.S. on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern standard time on February 24, 2026.

New postal duty rate duration

The special duty rate for postal shipments will be in place until a temporary import surcharge expires or CBP creates a new entry process, whichever happens first.

End of simplified postal process

International mail will pass without a formal entry process until CBP establishes and announces a new, official process in the Federal Register.

Continuing the Suspension of Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment for All Countries