US import charges = duty (HTS rate × declared value) plus additional taxes on certain goods. Since 2025 the de minimis exemption has been tightened sharply — most parcels from China now go through formal declaration, so under-declaring is a high-risk game.
What is an HTS code?
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule classifies every product into a 10-digit code (first 6 digits match the international HS code). Each code carries its own duty rate, from 0% (most books) to 30%+ (some textiles). Misclassification can trigger re-classification, back duties and penalties.
How to set declared value
Declare the true transaction price of the goods (excluding international freight in most cases). Keep order screenshots and payment proof on file. If a low declaration is caught in inspection, CBP re-values the goods, collects back duty and may impose penalties of 20%–40% of value; serious cases end in seizure or return.
Where the de minimis rule stands
Packages valued under US$800 once entered duty-free (the T86 channel). In 2025 the US removed that treatment for parcels from mainland China and Hong Kong, and restrictions have since widened — most China-to-US parcels now clear through formal or standard entry processes with duties payable.
Beyond duty: other charges
Customs entry may add broker fees, documentation fees (for FDA/FCC-regulated goods) and duty-advance handling fees. Sea freight carries a Harbor Maintenance Fee; air and express carry a Merchandise Processing Fee. These are itemized on channel quotes — budget beyond the duty itself.
Practical tips for recipients
1) Ask support for an HTS pre-classification and duty estimate before ordering; 2) declare honestly and keep receipts; 3) make sure recipient details match ID documents where required; 4) watch CBP updates — rates change more often than you’d expect.
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