DHL Express has announced a pause on shipments to US customers worth over $800 (£603), citing growing customs complications caused by a wave of new trade measures introduced by former President Donald Trump. The international courier confirmed the suspension begins on Monday and applies to all consumer deliveries globally bound for the US.

The move follows a tightening of customs procedures, which accompanied a revised tariff policy implemented earlier this month. Previously, goods valued up to $2,500 could enter the US with limited formalities, but the threshold has now been reduced, leading to an overwhelming increase in customs processing. DHL said business-to-business deliveries will continue, although they too may face hold-ups.

The company acknowledged that it is working around the clock to manage the spike in formal clearances. While packages valued under $800 will still be delivered as usual, higher-value items are likely to encounter significant delays. The situation is expected to worsen from 2 May when the US government plans to close a key loophole that currently allows many low-cost imports from countries like China and Hong Kong to bypass duties.

Retail giants Shein and Temu, reliant on this exemption, have already warned of incoming price hikes. Meanwhile, China has criticised the US’s approach as heavy-handed and politically motivated.