Australia Post Suspends US Postal Service Amidst Impending Trump Tariff Change
In response to the forthcoming tariff changes introduced by US President Donald Trump, Australia Post has announced the temporary suspension of its postal service to the US and Puerto Rico, effective immediately.
Background to the Suspension
The suspension is a direct result of the Trump administration’s decision to suspend the De Minimis exemption for inbound goods, which previously allowed goods worth under US$800 (AUD$1,233) to enter the US duty-free.
From August 29, these items will be subject to new tariffs, with only parcels worth US$100 (AUD$154) or less exempt from fees.
Australia Post Executive General Manager, Parcel, Post & eCommerce Services, Gary Starr, has expressed disappointment at the necessary suspension, stating that it was essential to develop a workable solution for customers amidst the complex and rapidly evolving situation.
Impact on Australians
The temporary suspension is expected to significantly impact businesses sending parcels to US customers, particularly those using Australia Post’s Business Contract, MyPost Business, and Retail services.
The postal service is currently collaborating with Zonos, an authorised US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) third-party provider, to find a solution to resume postal services to the US as a priority.
Similar suspensions have been announced by postal services in Europe and India, citing insufficient information on customs clearance procedures and the significant challenges posed by the regulatory tightening for all postal companies worldwide when shipping goods to the USA.