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The End of Duty-Free Holiday Giving
Canadians sending holiday presents to the United States face a significant new challenge this winter. Recent changes to trade policy have created a major US shipping tariff impact on personal packages. In July, President Donald Trump ended the long-standing de minimis exemption for low-value shipments.
Previously, Canadians could send items valued under US$800 without paying any duties. Now, an executive order requires “all applicable duties” on packages entering from outside the U.S. postal network. This shift makes the simple act of mailing a Christmas gift much more complex. Even the smallest items now require formal customs entries and digital prepayments.
Strict New Rules for Every Package
The new regulations affect almost everything you might want to mail south. Logistics experts warn that sending items made in China now requires a formal entry process. Furthermore, the U.S. now prohibits sending any food items through these channels. These restrictions often surprise individuals who just want to send a small care package to loved ones.
Canada Post confirms that these rules apply to everyone. and not just commercial businesses. The US shipping tariff impact means you must pay tariffs on any package exceeding US$100 in value. Even for gifts worth less than US$100, customs must still assess them for potential duties. Without proof of payment, Canada Post will refuse to accept your package at the counter. “Stay connected to every major update — subscribe and follow us on the PhoenixQ website and across our social media platforms.”
How to Pay Your Duties Online
To navigate this new landscape, Canadians must use specific digital tools before heading to the post office. Canada Post has partnered with the Zonos Prepay app to facilitate these payments. Users can upload a photo of their package and pay the required duties in Canadian dollars.
After completing the payment, the app provides a 13-character declaration ID and a QR code. You must present these digital credentials to the postal clerk to ship your items. During the process, ensure you select the “is a gift” option to properly declare your present. This digital trail provides the “proof of payment” that U.S. Customs now demands for every entry.
Limited Options for Cross-Border Shipping
Finding alternatives to Canada Post has become increasingly difficult for average citizens. Many couriers have stopped accepting small personal packages bound for the United States. Only major carriers like FedEx or DHL continue to offer these services, but they often require a dedicated broker.
With the de minimis exemption gone, sending duty-free gifts to friends and family is no longer possible. Canadians must now factor in both high shipping rates and these mandatory new tariffs. Planning ahead and using the required apps is the only way to ensure your gifts arrive on time.
