CBP is rolling out an automated capability to enforce the de minimis threshold that allows for the duty and tax-free entry of shipments with an aggregate value of US$800 or less per person, per day. FedEx customers are reminded that if a recipient’s aggregated imported shipments exceed the US$800 de minimis daily threshold, then informal or formal entries may be required — including payment of all applicable duties, taxes, and fees — and may be subject to delays as a result.

While the “per person, per day” de minimis provision is already actively enforced by CBP, we anticipate that automated enforcement of this provision will lead to more consistent and comprehensive treatment by CBP.

How to stay compliant and avoid delays

To help ensure your shipments clear smoothly, we recommend the following best practices:
 

Monitor recipients’ orders

Factor the US$800 per person, per day limit into your order fulfillment timeline and processes, and do not send more than US$800 of goods to a person on a single day without accounting for necessary duties, taxes, and fees.
 

Get guidelines for shipments to fulfillment centres

If you’re sending shipments to fulfillment centers, be sure to follow CBP’s guidance during shipment creation. This includes listing the consignee as ‘[Merchandise Owner Name] c/o [Fulfillment Centre Name]’. For example, ‘Company ABC c/o Amazon Fulfillment Centre’.

Provide precise cargo descriptions

When creating shipments with FedEx, include detailed product descriptions, the exact monetary value and currency, shipper and recipient details, as well as an HS code (where required). Vague descriptions can delay clearance.

Use the latest version of FedEx shipping tools

Ensure you're using the latest version of FedEx Ship Manager™ at fedex.ca or your preferred FedEx shipping software to help avoid any errors during the shipping process. To get started, search shipping tools on fedex.ca.