What is de minimis?
It is the value below which imported goods are exempt from duty or go through simplified customs procedures. For more on taxes, see our article on DDP and IOSS.
Key points
- De minimis thresholds can change as policies change from year to year, so always check for updates.
- The US suspended its USD 800 de minimis exemption for goods from all countries on 29 August 2025: small orders also pay import duty.
- The EU charges VAT even on low-value orders (through IOSS), which is not the same as "duty-free". From 1 November 2026, parcels to the EU are also charged €5 per HS code (€3 customs duty + €2 handling fee).
- Declare the true value so the right threshold is applied.
Our advice
Because these rules change often, confirm the current threshold with your carrier before quoting a buyer. Contact VIO ePacket for advice on your route.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the de minimis threshold fixed?
- No. Countries adjust their thresholds as their policies change, so check the latest figures.
- Does the EU have a de minimis threshold for VAT?
- The EU charges VAT on low-value orders too (through IOSS), so there is no VAT exemption in the way de minimis works for import duty.
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