If you shop from Korea and live in the U.S., you may have noticed something has changed.
Starting in August 2025, the U.S. government ended the long-standing “de minimis” duty exemption for many types of international parcels. That, combined with reciprocal tariffs and tightened customs clearance procedures, has created delays, higher costs, and fewer shipping options for many American shoppers ordering from Korea.
But don’t worry—there’s a solution.
Let’s walk through what’s changed, how it affects your shopping experience, and how Delivered Korea is making it easier.
What’s Changed? New Rules at U.S. Customs
No More Duty-Free Threshold
Previously, if your package was under $800, it could often enter the U.S. without duties. That rule is now gone for most shipments.
Reciprocal Tariffs on Korean Imports
The U.S. imposed a 15% reciprocal tariff rate on goods from Korea, in addition to standard HS code-based duties.
Korea Post Suspends Parcel Shipping to the U.S.
To comply with new customs procedures, Korea Post has temporarily halted most U.S.-bound parcels (except documents), removing affordable EMS and airmail options.
Customs Clearance is Stricter
More detailed invoices, HS codes, and origin documents are required. Without accurate info, shipments can be delayed or even rejected by U.S. Customs.
Challenges for U.S. Shoppers
These changes have created several new pain points for U.S. customers ordering from Korea:
- Higher Final Cost: Duties and taxes now apply even to small orders.
- Shipping Option Limitations: Many affordable options (like EMS) are suspended.
- Surprise Charges on Delivery: Carriers may collect unexpected duties/taxes.
- Delays in Delivery: Packages are getting stuck at customs for clearance issues.
- Lack of Transparency: Many shoppers don’t know what they owe until the package arrives.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Delivered Korea’s Solution: Two Clear Shipping Options
To make things easier, Delivered Korea introduced a new shipping option for the U.S.-bound packages—Prepaid All Duties & Taxes.
- All duties and taxes are estimated and included in your shipping fee.
- Delivered Korea handles customs clearance on your behalf.
- Your package arrives hassle-free, with no surprise fees at the door.
The estimated tariff calculation includes HS code duties (~5%), reciprocal tariffs (~15%), and carrier fees.
Available by Carrier:
Conclusion
At Delivered Korea, we know how frustrating customs changes can be—especially when they impact your shopping experience. That’s why we’re committed to:
- Transparency in fees and options
- Support throughout the shipping process
- Flexible services that adapt to global changes
Ready to experience easier U.S. shipping? Sign up and get your free Korean Address.
