Key facts
- New customs requirements for small international mail shipments delayed until January 20, 2027.
- Rule targets de minimis tariffs exemption for shipments under $800.
- Delay aims to prevent higher prices for imported prescription drugs before November elections.
- Electronic filing and customs bond required for certain postal shipments.
The US government has delayed by 90 days the implementation of new customs requirements for small international mail shipments, a move that is expected to prevent potential price increases for imported prescription drugs and other products. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) pushed the mandatory compliance date for a new mail entry process to January 20, 2027, from October 22. This prior deadline was just 12 days before the November midterm elections, where household affordability is a key issue. The rule targets the de minimis tariffs exemption for shipments under $800 and requires electronic filing and a customs bond for certain postal shipments. Patient advocates and industry groups had warned that the new requirements could cause delays, refusals, or added costs for personal drug orders. The CBP stated the extension gives importers, brokers, and logistics providers more time to update processes and avoid disruptions.