🚨 The End of Section 321 Is Here: Key Updates & How 3DM Keeps You Ahead
> Update (late August 25, 2025):
> - CBP already enforces the $800/day de minimis limit via ACE (since August 12).
> - Fully suspended starting August 29, 2025.
> - Postal carriers must choose value-based or flat-fee ($80–$200) duties until February 28, 2026.
> - After that: ad valorem only.
🔄 What’s Changing With Section 321?
For years, Section 321 let low-value (≤ $800) shipments into the U.S. duty-free. This was a cornerstone for:
- 🛒 E-commerce sellers shipping from overseas suppliers
- 🇨🇦 Canadian exporters serving U.S. customers
- 🧪 Brands testing new markets without big import commitments
Now:
- ❌ No more duty-free imports across the board
- 🧾 More customs processing and oversight
- 💸 Rising landed costs, for even small parcels
- 🔧 Urgent need to rethink supply chains
---
🛂 Enforcement Is Already in Motion
- As of August 12, 2025, CBP’s ACE is withholding parcels exceeding $800 per consignee per day unless formally entered or returned.
- The full de minimis rule ends on August 29, 2025.
---
📮 Postal Shipments: A Temporary Exception
- From Aug 29, 2025 to Feb 28, 2026, postal carriers may choose:
- Ad valorem duty (based on value), or
- Flat-fee ($80–$200 per item)
- Duty methodology must remain consistent for the month, with 24-hour CBP notice for changes.
- After Feb 28, 2026 — ad valorem only.
---
⚠️ The Challenge Ahead
The window for duty-free shipping is closed. Now:
- ⏳ Shipments may face slower delivery
- 💥 Unexpected duties could shrink margins
- 🇨🇦 Canadian brands may see low-cost items jump up 60%+ in landed cost
- 🤯 Compliance complexity is soaring
---
🧭 How 3DM Helps You Stay Compliant & Competitive
At 3DM, we build scalable, easy-to-implement supply chain solutions reflecting today’s new customs reality:
📦 Warehousing & Fulfillment
Three strategically located Quebec facilities help you position inventory smartly and reduce cross-border delays.
🚚 Cross-Border Logistics
Formal entry workflows and routing strategies to prevent withheld shipments and penalties.
🏷 Value-Added Services
Compliance labeling, kitting, documentation support — ensuring shipments are customs-ready.
💻 Tech & Integrations
Visibility into inventory, orders, and costs via integrated systems — vital for navigating these changes.
🧠 Consultative Support
We guide duty methodology choices, help plan for February 2026, and redesign workflows for long-term resilience.
---
⭐ Why 3DM Stands Out
- 🧩 Tailored solutions — no one-size-fits all
- 🔍 Proactive services — built for today’s tight compliance environment
- 🤝 Canadian-focused — optimized for cross-border impacts
---
📣 Let’s Talk
With Section 321 ending and enforcement live, the time to act is now.
Reach out to 3DM to build a seamless post-321 strategy.
📧 info@3-dm.com | 🌐 3-dm.com
---
❓ FAQ
When did enforcement begin?
CBP’s ACE has enforced the $800 threshold since August 12, 2025.
When does Section 321 end?
It ends fully on August 29, 2025.
What about postal shipments?
From Aug 29, 2025 — Feb 28, 2026, carriers choose between ad valorem or $80–$200 flat fees. After that, only ad valorem applies.
How will this affect costs?
Even low-cost goods face duty, tariffs, and processing fees — some may see 60%+ cost increases.
What should I do now?
- 🗺️ Rework cross-border distribution
- 📍 Place inventory strategically in Canada/U.S.
- 🤝 Partner with 3DM for compliant, cost-effective logistics
