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Shipping alert: Japan Post suspended services to the US & what to do next?
The U.S. government’s recent changes to import regulations have created major disruptions for international shipping, including services from Japan Post. At Japan Flow, we understand how important smooth and reliable delivery is for our customers. This blog will serve as your central source for the latest updates on U.S. shipping changes, what’s happening, how it affects your orders, and the steps we’re taking to keep your favorite Japanese goods moving safely.
1. September 15, 2025 latest update: Shipping to the U.S. for orders under $150
Good news: orders to the United States can still be shipped if the parcel value is kept under $150 and marked as a gift. These shipments are not subject to U.S. import taxes under the current rules, so your Japanese kitchenware and lifestyle products can continue to reach you without extra fees.
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Epacket Light: available for parcels under $80
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EMS & Registered Small Packet AIR: available for parcels under $150
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Tax refunds: any customs duty charges collected at checkout will be refunded immediately after your order is placed
This adjustment allows Kiichin customers to keep shopping for authentic Japanese tools, ceramics, and lifestyle goods while we await clearer U.S. customs guidelines. Our team will continue monitoring the situation closely and share updates here as soon as anything changes.
2. What is happening with Japan Post suspended services to the US?
On July 30, 2025, the U.S. government issued a new executive order to end the de minimis exemption for low-value international packages. This order ends the long-standing “de minimis” rule that allowed goods under $800 to enter the United States duty-free. Beginning August 29, 2025, all taxable mail shipments will face customs duties and tariffs, regardless of value.
Because the new rules require transport operators and postal services to collect deposits, prepare customs declarations, and comply with stricter procedures, Japan Post announced it will suspend acceptance of certain items bound for the U.S. starting August 27, 2025.
This means small packets, parcels, and EMS shipments containing goods for personal use or resale can no longer be sent by Japan Post to the U.S. Letters, documents, and individual gifts valued under $100 will still be accepted, but goods ordering from Japan will be directly affected.
Japan Post’s move follows similar suspensions from Swiss Post, Australia Post, Royal Mail (UK), India Post, and others as they scramble to adapt to unclear U.S. customs guidelines. DHL also announced it will temporarily stop accepting parcels to the U.S., while FedEx and UPS have confirmed they will continue supporting customers through this transition.
3. What Japan Post officially announced about the suspension?
Japan Post’s official statement clarified:
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Effective date: August 27, 2025.
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Suspended items: small packets, parcels, EMS (goods) containing taxable items or gifts worth over $100.
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Still accepted: letters, postcards, printed matter, EMS (documents), and personal gifts valued under $100.
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Reason: unclear guidelines from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regarding customs deposit payments, data transmission, and tariff collection methods.
This change isn’t just about Japan, it’s global. The elimination of de minimis exemptions is part of a broader effort by the U.S. government to close loopholes that were heavily used by fast-growing cross-border platforms like Temu and Shein. The White House also cited concerns about illegal materials, deceptive shipping practices, and duty evasion.
4. How does this affect shoppers at Kiichin?
If you’re a Kiichin customer in the United States, here’s what you need to know:
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Shipping options like EMS, Registered Small Packet AIR, and Epacket Light are suspended. If you previously chose these services, your orders cannot be shipped with Japan Post until further notice.
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Customs duties will now apply. For example, an $200 order shipped from Japan could face tariffs of 15% or more depending on U.S. trade rates, meaning an extra $30 in import costs.
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Pre-orders and pending shipments may require adjustments. If your order was scheduled to ship after August 27 via Japan Post, our team will contact you to update your shipping method.
At Kiichin, we understand that buying authentic Japanese kitchen tools, stationery, and lifestyle goods isn’t just shopping, it’s about trust, craftsmanship, and enhancing your daily life. That’s why we’re committed to making sure your orders arrive safely, no matter the changes.
5. How are we handling the Japan Post suspension for our customers?
Our team at Kiichin is working closely with alternative couriers to ensure minimal disruption to your shopping experience. Here’s how we’re supporting you:
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Automatic support for affected orders: If your chosen method was EMS, Registered Small Packet AIR, or Epacket Light, we will reach out and help you switch to another service.
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Safer packaging & customs preparation: All orders will be packed with extra protection and the proper documentation to meet U.S. customs requirements.
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Real-time updates: We’ll continue to post updates on website and social channels as soon as Japan Post or CBP releases new guidance.
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Customer care priority: Our support team is ready to answer questions about shipping costs, pre-orders, and customs duties.
6. What are alternative shipping options during the suspension?
While Japan Post suspended services to the US, shoppers at Kiichin still have reliable ways to receive their Japanese goods:
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DHL: DHL Express and commercial imports to the U.S. remain available under the current customs regulations, providing an alternative for Japanese goods shipments.
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FedEx: Fast and reliable, with strong customs handling. FedEx has confirmed it will continue servicing U.S. shipments even after the de minimis rule ends.
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UPS: Another trusted option, with robust tracking and customs clearance support.
Please note that if you choose these alternative shipping options, your order may be subject to higher customs duties and taxes, as required under the new U.S. regulations. The exact amounts are still being clarified and will be updated as soon as more information becomes available. Each option comes with different pricing and transit times, but rest assured, we’ll work with you to select the safest and most cost-efficient method so your products arrive securely.
The suspension of Japan Post services to the U.S. is part of a broader shift in global trade rules, and while it may create new challenges for Japanese product lovers, you can stay confident knowing that Kiichin will continue to ship safely worldwide.
We have already adjusted our logistics network to ensure your orders arrive on time, even with the recent changes. Our team will guide you through updated shipping methods, customs requirements, and any cost considerations that may arise, so you’re never left uncertain about your order. Above all, our mission remains the same: to deliver authentic Japanese products and make every step of your shopping experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.