Discover why U.S. warehouses are essential for international sellers after the elimination of the $800 duty-free exemption in 2025
Starting August 29, 2025, the United States is ending the long-standing de minimis exemption that allowed goods valued under $800 to enter duty-free. This change will affect millions of international e-commerce shipments, making cross-border shopping more expensive and logistically complex.
For online sellers and global brands, one of the most effective ways to adapt to this new reality is by leveraging U.S.-based warehouses and fulfillment centers. Here’s why.
1. Shifting Customs Duties Away From Shoppers
Bulk importing into a U.S. warehouse allows duties to be paid upfront, so customers avoid surprise fees at checkout. This prevents abandoned carts and improves satisfaction.
2. Lower Logistics Costs per Unit
Importing containers or consolidated freight spreads shipping and customs costs across thousands of units, lowering the landed cost per product.
3. Faster Delivery Times
Stocking products in the U.S. cuts delivery time from 7–30 days to just 1–3 days — meeting customer expectations and competing with Amazon Prime.
4. Simplified Returns and Exchanges
U.S. warehouses make returns local and hassle-free, increasing trust and encouraging repeat purchases.
5. Access to U.S. Marketplaces
Having inventory in the U.S. allows sellers to join Amazon FBA, Walmart Fulfillment Services, and other marketplaces that require domestic stock.
The end of the $800 duty-free threshold marks a significant shift in global e-commerce. Sellers who continue shipping directly from overseas will face higher costs, slower deliveries, and unhappy customers.
By moving inventory into U.S. warehouses and fulfillment centers, businesses can absorb duties upfront, reduce logistics costs, deliver faster, handle returns locally, and scale on major American platforms. What seems like a regulatory challenge can be turned into a competitive advantage.
How We Can Help
At SalesinUSA, we specialize in helping international brands seamlessly transition into the U.S. market — and now is the time to act.
- Bulk import and customs clearance to handle duties upfront
- U.S.-based warehousing and nationwide fulfillment
- Fast, reliable domestic shipping for your customers
- Hassle-free returns management
- Marketplace onboarding (Amazon, Walmart, eBay, and more)
⚡ Don’t wait until the new rules disrupt your sales. Move your inventory to the U.S. now and stay competitive.