Parcel being shipped from Canada to the U.S. with "$800 de minimis rule" text overlay

What is the US$800 De Minimis Rule? How It Helps You Save on Imports

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Parcel being shipped from Canada to the U.S. with "$800 de minimis rule" text overlay

Looking to save on import duties when shipping to the U.S.? The $800 de minimis rule might be your new best friend. Whether you’re shopping for personal items, tech gadgets, or bulk deals under $800, this powerful exemption allows U.S. shoppers to bypass duties and taxes entirely—legally.

In this blog, we’ll break down what the de minimis threshold means, how to take advantage of it, and how ShipByMail, a trusted Canadian parcel forwarder, helps you stay compliant while saving money.

What Is the $800 De Minimis Rule?

The U.S. de minimis rule is a customs regulation that allows duty-free and tax-free importation of goods with a total declared value of $800 USD or less per shipment per day per person. This exemption was introduced to streamline cross-border commerce and make it easier for individuals to receive low-value packages without unnecessary delays or paperwork.

Key Highlights:

  • Applies to most imported goods (with some exceptions).
  • Limit is $800 per shipment, not per item.
  • No customs duties or import taxes required under the threshold.
  • Applies once per day per recipient.

Why This Matters to U.S. Shoppers

Many Americans are turning to international retailers to find better prices or access products not available in local stores. But high import duties and shipping costs can wipe out those savings.

That’s where the de minimis rule becomes a game-changer. By breaking up orders into smaller, under-$800 shipments, shoppers can:

  • Avoid paying import taxes
  • Receive packages faster through simplified customs clearance
  • Save significantly on total costs

How ShipByMail Helps You Stay Within the Limit

At ShipByMail, we specialize in parcel forwarding from Canada to the USA. We help you take full advantage of the $800 rule with these smart solutions:

✔️ Repackaging & Consolidation

Want to split a large order into multiple smaller parcels? We’ll repackage your items into customized shipments under $800, maximizing savings while remaining compliant.

✔️ Transparent Customs Declarations

We ensure that all shipments are accurately declared and stay below the $800 limit, protecting you from surprise duties at the border.

✔️ Daily Shipments, Daily Savings

You can ship one package per day per recipient. With 30 days of free storage, you can strategically schedule shipments to avoid breaching the threshold.

✔️ Real-Time Tracking & Shipping Options

Choose your preferred courier (postal or express), track your packages, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your parcels are compliant and protected.

Examples of Items That Qualify

Wondering what you can ship under $800? Here are common examples our U.S. customers love:

  • Electronics like smartwatches, earbuds, tablets
  • Supplements and health products
  • Designer fashion and accessories
  • Beauty and skincare items
  • Kitchen gadgets or small appliances

A Word of Caution

Some goods—like alcohol, tobacco, and certain electronics—may not qualify under the de minimis rule or might still trigger inspections. Always double-check with your parcel forwarder if unsure.

Final Thoughts: Use the Rule to Your Advantage

The $800 de minimis threshold empowers savvy U.S. shoppers to import smartly and save big. With ShipByMail as your Canadian parcel forwarder, you can legally optimize your shipments and avoid extra costs while accessing top products from Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I receive multiple shipments in one day under $800?
A: No. The $800 exemption applies once per person per day. Additional shipments may be combined and taxed.

Q: What if my order is worth $900?
A: You can split it into two shipments, spaced over separate days, to stay under the threshold.

Q: Is the de minimis rule available for business imports?
A: Yes, as long as the shipment is addressed to a business and stays under $800, it qualifies.

Q: What shipping method works best for de minimis shipments?
A: Postal and express courier services both qualify. ShipByMail helps you choose the best option based on speed and value.

Ready to Ship Duty-Free from Canada?

Join thousands of smart U.S. shoppers who are using ShipByMail to take full advantage of the $800 de minimis rule.
✅ Save on duties
✅ Access top Canadian retailers
✅ Enjoy fast, reliable shipping to the USA

👉 Get Started with ShipByMail Today