Japan to USA eBay Purchases – New Customs Duties Tariffs Effective August 29
The U.S. government has recently announced a presidential order titled “Termination of De Minimis Treatment for All Countries” regarding imports into the United States.
According to this order, beginning on August 29, 2025, postal shipments containing goods imported for personal use will no longer qualify for duty-free treatment. Instead, they will be subject to U.S. customs duties.
This change directly impacts eBay buyers in the United States who purchase products from Japan-based sellers. Starting August 29, many customers are wondering how these new customs duty rules will affect their eBay purchases from Japan.
To help clarify, we have summarized the latest news and updates regarding the upcoming customs duty changes for eBay imports from Japan.
Japan Post Issues Warning Ahead of U.S. Tariff Changes
On August 19, 2025, Japan Post announced a caution regarding shipments to the United States.
The carrier noted that the operational details of the new customs duty payments remain unclear, and therefore shipments could face delays or even returns.
As of now, the Japanese government has not released an official statement explaining how the new U.S. tariff system will be implemented.
https://www.post.japanpost.jp/int/information/2025/0819_01.html
What U.S. Buyers of Japan eBay Items Should Expect After August 29
According to information circulating on Japanese social media, the upcoming tariff rules for Japan-to-USA eBay purchases appear to follow one of two models:
15% customs duty
or
a flat fee of USD $80 per item
Which option applies will depend on the delivery carrier. For Japan Post shipments, the decision will likely fall under USPS once the package enters the United States.
Analysts predict that the 15% duty rate is more likely, since widespread application of the $80 fee could result in mass delivery refusals, creating bottlenecks in international logistics.
* If charged 15%, the safest option is to pay directly.
* If charged $80, buyers may want to call their local customs office or consult the eBay seller before proceeding.
Important:
・With Japan Post (EMS or Small Packet), refused shipments are automatically returned free of charge.
・With FedEx or DHL, refused shipments may result in high return shipping fees, increasing the risk of disputes.
Shipping Insights from Reddit and Buyer Communities
Reports on Reddit suggest that:
* FedEx, DHL, and UPS typically collect duties upon delivery or via later invoice.
* DHL is often associated with higher customs charges, which may discourage some U.S. buyers.
* Many community members recommend choosing EMS or Japan Post Small Packet shipments to minimize duty risks and costs.
How Sellers in Japan Are Responding
Our store and many other Japanese eBay sellers rely mainly on Japan Post for overseas shipping.
* For large parcels over 90 cm total dimensions
or
* For heavy items above 2 kg,
or
* For expensive items over USD $200
we occasionally use FedEx. However, this represents only 2–3 shipments out of 250 per month.
For U.S. buyers concerned about customs duties, it is advisable to request Japan Post shipping from your seller whenever possible.
Conclusion – What This Means for eBay Buyers and Sellers
The removal of the de minimis exemption and the start of new U.S. tariffs effective August 29, 2025, represent a major change for international e-commerce.
For those purchasing Japan-to-USA eBay items, customs duties will now apply to virtually all imports.
* Stay informed about whether your package will be subject to 15% duty or a flat $80 fee.
* Choose shipping carriers wisely, with Japan Post EMS or Small Packet recommended for most buyers.
* Communicate with sellers in advance to avoid unnecessary risks or disputes.
This situation remains fluid, and both governments are expected to release more detailed guidelines in the coming weeks. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.
