UPU Reports Suspension Of Postal Services To The US By 88 Operators Due To New Customs Regulations

The Universal Postal Union (UPU), a UN agency focused on global postal cooperation, is implementing a solution to assist postal operators in resuming deliveries to the United States. This follows an over 80% drop in postal traffic due to the US ending the duty-free de minimis exemption from 29 August.

"The UPU has in its mission the responsibility to guarantee the free circulation of postal items over a single postal territory. We’re working to uphold that responsibility with the rapid development of a new technical solution that will help get mail moving to the United States again," stated UPU Director General Masahiko Metoki.

Starting 5 September, postal operators can utilise a landed-cost calculator through an application programming interface (API). This tool integrates into their retail and counter systems, allowing posts to calculate and collect necessary duties from customers at the point of origin.

The UPU is committed to assisting postal operators with this comprehensive solution rollout. This includes adapting internal procedures and providing training for postal staff. The aim is to ensure smooth implementation and operation across various regions.

Data exchanged via the UPU’s electronic network indicates that traffic from member countries to the US fell by 81% on Friday, 29 August, compared to the previous Friday, 22 August. This significant decline underscores the impact of the new regulation on international mail services.

A total of 88 postal operators have informed the UPU about suspending some or all services to the US until a viable solution is in place. This highlights how widespread the effects of eliminating the de minimis exemption for low-value goods have been globally.

The UPU's efforts are crucial in restoring normalcy in international mail flow. By addressing these challenges quickly, they aim to support global postal operations and maintain efficient service delivery worldwide.

With inputs from WAM