Trump’s new tariff rules bring surprise charges for consumers

New Orleans, Louisiana, A United Parcel Service driver and a helper load packages into a ‘package car’ at the New Orleans Convention Center. The truck is powered by natural gas. (Photo by: Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

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(NewsNation) — President Trump’s new tariff rules are causing chaos for consumers in the United States.

Shoppers are reporting they were hit with surprise charges from international shipping carriers, resulting from the expiration of the exemption on import duties for items under $800.

“It’s maximum chaos,” said Nick Baker, co-lead of the trade and customs practice at Kroll.

At the end of August, de minimis goods (small-dollar items) began facing import duties when being shipped into the U.S., meaning personalized small orders are now facing sizable tariffs from its trading partners.

“We encourage customers to take note of the shipping policies of the brands they shop with and to also remember that tariffs are payable to the U.S. government,” said a DHL representative.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection made it clear that the logistics industry has continued to operate without a problem since the new de minimis rules took effect.

“Foreign carriers and postal operators were given clear timelines, detailed guidance, and multiple options to comply. The only thing ending on August 29 is the pathway that has been used by criminals to exploit America’s borders,” acknowledged Susan S. Thomas, CBP.

The Trump administration has made billions in revenue from the tariff rules implemented in recent months.

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