India Post has temporarily suspended postal services to the United States due to a new U.S. customs rule that has created confusion and delays. The suspension, which began on August 25, 2025, affects most shipments but allows for some exceptions.
What’s Causing the Suspension?
On July 30, 2025, the U.S. administration issued an executive order to end the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed goods valued up to $800 to enter the country duty-free. Starting August 29, all goods valued above $100 will be subject to customs duties.
The new rule requires carriers to collect these duties and transfer them to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). However, CBP has yet to provide clear instructions on how this system will work. Due to this lack of clarity, airlines have refused to accept most postal consignments from India.
What You Can and Can’t Send
- Allowed: You can still send letters, documents, and gift items worth up to $100.
- Suspended: All other shipments, including parcels and packages valued over $100, are currently on hold.
Impact and Next Steps
This disruption is not unique to India; postal services in several other countries have also suspended shipments to the U.S. India Post stated that the suspension will remain in effect until the U.S. provides further instructions. Customers who have already booked affected shipments can apply for a postage refund.