The landscape of international trade policy has dramatically shifted, with Section 321 cargo clearance now becoming a significant casualty of recent legislative changes. This marks the end of an era for duty-free shipping, impacting numerous businesses that relied on this provision.

Effective August 29, 2025, the United States officially rescinded the widely utilized de minimis exemption under Section 321 of the Tariff Act. This pivotal policy previously allowed low-value shipments, specifically those under $800 USD, to enter the USA without incurring customs duties or taxes. The elimination of this exemption is set to redefine import strategies and operational costs for companies engaged in cross-border e-commerce and low-value cargo movements.

De Minimis Cargo Clearance Goes The Way of The Dodo