Jersey and Guernsey Post Halt Shipments to US After Tax Exemption Scrapped

Channel Islands Halt US Parcel Deliveries After Trump Ends Tax Exemption

Postal services in Jersey and Guernsey have suspended parcel deliveries to the United States following a decision by President Donald Trump’s administration to remove a long-standing import tax exemption.

Until now, the “de minimis” rule allowed goods worth under $800 to enter the US without customs duties. But from 29 August, the exemption will end, meaning goods shipped from abroad could face higher costs and delays.

Both postal services said the suspension only applies to parcels containing goods, while letters, paperwork and personal correspondence will continue as normal. Customers are being advised that FedEx remains an option, though at higher prices.

The Channel Islands join several European operators – including La Poste in France, Deutsche Post in Germany and Poste Italiane – in pausing US shipments.

For small businesses, the impact could be severe. Jersey entrepreneur Kate Sloan, who runs lingerie label Hidden Beneath Underwear, said most of her sales come from American customers.

“Probably about 80% of my orders were going to the US,” she said. “This effectively puts a full stop to what I’m doing. FedEx is simply too expensive for a business of my size.”

Jersey Post said US parcels make up only 2% of its shipments but that the change in American customs rules requires a “fundamental adjustment” to mail handling. Guernsey Post cited similar concerns over uncertainty and said the suspension was a precaution to protect customers.

Both services stressed they are working on technical solutions in the hope of restoring parcel deliveries as soon as possible.