DHL Express has temporarily suspended shipments of business-to-consumer (B2C) goods valued over US$800 to the United States, effective Monday, April 21, citing severe customs congestion caused by newly implemented U.S. import regulations. The logistics company attributed the decision to a sudden shift in customs procedures mandated by President Donald Trump's recent executive order, which tightens oversight of imports exceeding US$800 to "strengthen trade enforcement."
The policy reversal replaces the streamlined T86 low-value clearance system-previously used for B2C shipments valued between US$800 and US$2,500-with the more cumbersome T01 and T11 formal entry processes, originally designed for bulk commercial cargo. This abrupt regulatory shift has overwhelmed customs channels, forcing DHL to pause high-value consumer shipments indefinitely to address a massive backlog. Lower-value B2C shipments and all business-to-business (B2B) cargo, regardless of value, remain unaffected.
DHL confirmed that teams are working around the clock to clear delayed shipments but warned customers that all U.S.-bound goods above US$800, regardless of origin, could face "multi-day delays." The company emphasized that the suspension is a temporary measure to prioritize resolving existing bottlenecks, with no timeline for resuming services.
The Trump administration's order targets perceived loopholes in low-value e-commerce imports, accusing foreign sellers of undervaluing goods to evade tariffs. Industry experts criticized the move as disproportionate, warning that applying bulk-trade protocols to retail-level shipments could paralyze cross-border e-commerce.
The suspension has sparked concerns among small businesses and online sellers reliant on expedited shipping. Meanwhile, rivals FedEx and UPS are reportedly adjusting operations but have yet to halt similar services. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has not commented on whether adjustments to the policy are imminent
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