DHL Express has restored international shipping services for high-value packages to US customers after adapting to new customs regulations that had temporarily halted deliveries over $800.

At a Glance

• DHL Express has resumed shipments valued over $800 to American consumers after a brief suspension
• The temporary halt began April 21 in response to US customs reducing the formal entry threshold from $2,500 to $800
• Business-to-business deliveries remained unaffected throughout the suspension period
• The resumption follows successful negotiations with US Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Commerce

International Shipping Restored

DHL Express, a division of German logistics giant Deutsche Post, announced Monday that it has resumed global shipments valued over $800 to American consumers. The company had suspended these deliveries on April 21 after US customs authorities implemented regulatory changes that lowered the formal entry threshold from $2,500 to $800 for international shipments. The temporary halt affected only consumer deliveries, as business-to-business shipments continued without interruption throughout the suspension period.

The shipping suspension came in response to new enforcement measures introduced by US Customs under a revised tariffs framework. Under the new regulations, which took effect April 5, any package valued above $800 requires formal entry processing – a more complex customs clearance procedure than previously required. This change significantly impacted international shipping operations by adding additional documentation, processing time, and potentially higher costs for shipments in the $800-$2,500 range.

DHL Express announced it will temporarily stop shipping business-to-consumer packages valued over $800 to individuals in the United States starting April 21. This decision follows recent changes in #US customs regulations that have made the clearance process longer.

Although the… pic.twitter.com/nKqSFA3xMf

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) April 20, 2025

Regulatory Adjustments

The restoration of services follows what DHL described as productive discussions with American authorities. The company worked with US Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Commerce to establish new operational protocols that would allow high-value shipments to resume while meeting the stricter regulatory requirements. These negotiations resulted in adjustments that enabled DHL to adapt its processes while maintaining compliance with the new customs threshold.

DHL’s ability to quickly resolve this operational challenge demonstrates the company’s commitment to maintaining global supply chains despite changing regulatory environments. The suspension had created concerns among international retailers and American consumers who rely on DHL for delivery of higher-value goods from overseas markets. The resumption ensures that American customers can once again receive international shipments of electronics, designer goods, and other premium products through DHL’s express delivery network.

Impact on International Commerce

The temporary disruption highlighted the significant role international shipping companies play in global trade and the impact regulatory changes can have on commerce. During the suspension, consumers seeking international shipments valued between $800 and $2,500 faced limited options, potentially driving business to competitors or forcing retailers to adjust their shipping practices. The swift resolution prevents what could have been more substantial disruptions to international retail operations targeting American consumers.

The company credited “constructive dialogue” with US authorities for enabling the resolution. This cooperation between private logistics providers and government regulatory agencies demonstrates how cross-sector collaboration can address challenges that arise from policy changes. With international shipping services now fully restored, DHL continues its position as a critical link in global commerce, connecting American consumers with products from around the world while ensuring proper customs compliance.