Europe suspends shipments to the U.S. – Ukrposhta keeps delivering

On 29 August, the United States cancel the de minimis exemption that used to allow goods valued under $800 to enter duty-free. For many European postal operators, this change has become a critical barrier—most have already announced a suspension of shipments to the U.S.

Unlike its European counterparts, Ukrposhta, the designated postal operator of Ukraine, has swiftly adapted its processes, ensuring uninterrupted access to the American market for Ukrainian exporters. Ukrposhta extends its gratitude to international partners, especially Zonos, for enabling this transition in record time.

What does this mean for Ukrainian exporters?

To begin with the challenges, Ukrainian goods will become 10% more expensive for U.S. consumers—reflecting the tariff rate set by President Trump for Ukraine. Shipping rates will also increase slightly to cover the costs of qualified agents required to process customs payments—on average, an additional $1.50–$3 depending on the item category and weight.

Here the bad news ends—and the good news begins.

First: Despite the price increase, Ukrainian products may gain a stronger foothold in the U.S. market for two key reasons:

• Over 95% of European countries are suspending shipments to the U.S., creating a gap that Ukrainian exporters can fill—including those who relocated to Europe and now face new barriers.
• Ukraine’s 10% tariff rate is the lowest in the region: EU countries face rates starting at 15%, Moldova at 25%, and Switzerland at 39%.

Therefore, Ukrainian entrepreneurs will have better conditions than their competitors, and thanks to Ukrposhta, they will be able to trade continuously in the U.S. market.

Second: Washington now requires operators to collect customs duties in the country of origin. While many private companies are introducing new brokerage fees or raising existing ones, Ukrposhta has chosen a different path: no new fees will be applied.

“Ukrainian entrepreneurs have already conquered the U.S. market—from jewelry to clothing and handmade goods, our products are wanted and valued. Behind every parcel is not just a business, but a family in Ukraine relying on these sales to live and work during wartime. Ukrposhta cannot leave these people alone to face new customs barriers. That is why we have taken on the role of guarantor and done everything possible to preserve access to this vital market,” —Igor Smelyansky, CEO of Ukrposhta, comments.

The company also emphasizes that all commercial shipments are subject to the new rules. Exceptions apply only to letters, newspapers, postcards, and gift or social parcels valued up to $100. Ukrposhta warns: abusing this rule is dangerous: US customs is tightening inspections, and under-declaring the value may result in delays or even the return of shipments.

The new system takes effect today. Ukrposhta continues working with the Universal Postal Union, the National Bank of Ukraine, the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development, and the Ministry of Economy to establish a sustainable export model in light of the U.S. decision.

ℹ️ All parcels sent before 29 August—even if they arrive to the U.S. later—will be handled under the old rules.

Updated international shipping rates are available on the company’s website.

Ukrposhta has also prepared answers to Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I label goods as gifts to avoid duties?

U.S. law allows duty-free gifts between individuals if valued under $100. However, customs will closely inspect shipments to prevent commercial goods from being disguised as gifts. If you are selling items, do not mark them as gifts. Use customs declaration CN22/23, indicate “sale of goods,” indicate the actual value, and select the correct product code.

Are documents exempt from duties?

Yes. Letters, documents, postcards, and other printed materials are duty-free if sent in ordinary or tracked registered postal items.

Is a commercial invoice required?

Recommended but not mandatory. If available (from a marketplace or your own website), attach it to the outside of the postal item. The declared value in CN22/23 is what matters most, as customs data is transmitted electronically from Ukraine. Always select “sale of goods” and declare the true value.

What country of origin should I list for vintage items made during the Soviet era?

Declare Ukraine as the country of origin. Items shipped from Ukraine must be labeled as Ukrainian-origin goods.

What happens to parcels sent before 29 August that arrive after this date without duty paid?

Ukrposhta guarantees their clearance. During the transition period, the company will work with U.S. authorities to resolve duty payment matters and avoid returns or delays.

Can I ship goods made in other countries?

Currently, tariffs for other countries are significantly higher than the 10% set for Ukraine. Now Ukrposhta can only ensure the delivery of goods if Ukraine is indicated as the country of origin.

Will there be increased inspections?

Yes. The agreement reached by Ukrposhta aims to preserve and develop the business of Ukrainian entrepreneurs who sell goods abroad. But this agreement will work successfully only if all parties comply with the rules. Therefore, taking into account the advantages that Ukrainian exporters have, Ukrposhta will strengthen control over the acceptance of parcels at border offices (in particular, near Poland, Hungary and Moldova) in order to avoid problems with the re-export of goods from countries with higher tariffs.

Ukrposhta works for its clients and is always there for them!