De Minimis Cargo Clearance Goes The Way of The Dodo
**The End of an Era for Duty-Free Shipping: Section 321 Cargo Clearance Eliminated**
A significant shift in trade policy has brought an end to an important era for businesses engaging in cross-border commerce. As of August 29, 2025, the United States has officially eliminated the widely utilized de minimis exemption under Section 321 of the Tariff Act.
This policy previously allowed low-value shipments, specifically those valued under $800 USD, to enter the U.S. without incurring duties or taxes. Its removal marks a pivotal change, impacting how many businesses manage their international logistics and pricing strategies, effectively concluding a long-standing practice of duty-free clearance for such goods.