Sending Gifts to the USA After August 29, 2025: What Changed and How Ukrainians Should Act

As of August 29, 2025, the $800 de minimis threshold in the USA has been eliminated. Every parcel now requires customs clearance, and most shipments are subject to duties and taxes. For Ukrainians sending gifts to relatives in the USA, a limited exemption still applies. For Etsy and Amazon sellers, however, the rules have become much stricter.

When a parcel qualifies as a “gift”

• From individual to individual — if the sender is a company or store, the exemption does not apply.
• Value not exceeding $100 — if even one item is above this amount, the exemption is lost.
• No payment involved — a gift must be free of charge, not something purchased by the recipient.
• Proper declaration — on CN22/CN23 forms, select “Gift” and describe the contents clearly, without invoices or promotional materials.

When a “gift” does not work

• The sender is a company or e-commerce warehouse.
• The box contains multiple identical new items.
• Invoices, receipts, or store business cards are included.
• The declared value exceeds $100.
• Frequent “gifts” are sent to the same recipient address.

Etsy and Amazon sellers: why it is risky to ship orders as “gifts”

Technically, an order can be marked as a Gift, but this comes with significant risks:

• Seizure and fines — up to $10,000 for false declarations.
• Loss of customer trust — buyers in the USA may refuse the parcel.
• Blacklisting — repeat violations lead to stricter inspections of all shipments.

A safer alternative is shipping under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), where duties and taxes are prepaid, ensuring the buyer receives the order without extra charges. Learn more: business solutions.

When a real gift is duty-free

• A relative from Ukraine sends handmade items or sweets to a family member in the USA worth under $100.
• Parents send books or toys to a child within the limit.
• Consolidated gifts for multiple people in one box, each valued under $100.

Practical tips for Ukrainian senders

• Fill out customs forms honestly and in detail.
• Do not include invoices, receipts, or price tags.
• Avoid bulk or identical product shipments.
• Declare realistic values in the $20–80 range.
• For regular sales, consider DDP shipping for business.

Conclusion

The elimination of the de minimis threshold has completely changed the rules. Genuine gifts from relatives are still exempt up to $100, but commercial shipments now face strict requirements. For Etsy and Amazon sellers, the risks of misdeclaring parcels outweigh the short-term savings.

With its expertise, GlobalPost helps clients choose the right shipping method, understand customs requirements, and find optimal delivery options — from personal gifts to large commercial shipments.

Parcel and cargo shipping from Ukraine — for private clients.
Business logistics solutions — calculation and consultation.