If you’re a US customer who shops with us, you may have noticed some changes (and frustrations!) when trying to place an order. We want to take a moment to explain what’s going on with US customs, what “de minimis” means, and how it affects your orders from Canada.
What is “De Minimis”?
The de minimis rule has been in place for years, making cross-border shopping easier for US customers. It allowed you to receive up to $800 USD worth of goods per day, duty- and tariff-free. This meant many of you could order from Canadian (and other international) shops without worrying about surprise fees at the border.
What’s Changing?
As of August 29, 2025, the US is changing how this rule applies. The de minimis exemption is being suspended for low-value shipments (the kinds of everyday packages you might order from small businesses like ours).
What that means:
- Stricter enforcement at the border. This will involve package inspection and tariff processing. Additionally carriers are being turned away if even one customer on the truck has already exceeded their daily $800 allowance of imported goods.
- More delays. Since August 10, several of our shipments have already been denied and sent back. And with additional processing and duty collection, this will cause longer delivery times. How much longer? -- only time will tell.
- Tariffs are coming. Once the suspension takes effect, US customers will need to pay extra duties or tariffs on international purchases.
How This Affects Your Orders with Us
Because of these changes:
- We’ve had to temporarily suspend US shipping until at least August 29, 2025.
- Any parcels already in transit may be delayed if they were caught in these new enforcement measures.
- Once tariffs are in effect, we’ll need to determine the costs and (hopefully!) set up prepaid options so you can see the final price upfront.
- If prepaid options are not available, you will be required to pay the tariff before or at delivery.
What You Can Do as a Shopper
Here are a few tips if you love ordering from Canadian shops like ours:
- Be mindful of the $800 daily limit. If you’re buying from multiple international sellers in the same day, try to keep the combined value under $800. A good rule of thumb is to wait until you see via your tracking link that the goods are already in the US before ordering more.
- Look for prepaid tariff options. Once available, this will make things much smoother and avoid surprise fees at delivery. Just understand that this may mean we need to build the tariff fees into our shipping prices, which will make our shipping prices look abnormally expensive.
- Stay connected. Revisit this blog regularly so we can update you as soon as shipping reopens.
- Be patient with delays. This is a brand-new change that’s affecting every small business shipping into the US. We’re navigating it right alongside you.
Thank You for Your Support
We know this is frustrating — and we’re just as disappointed as you are. For over 13 years, we’ve loved shipping our creations to our US customers, and we’re committed to finding the best way forward. Thank you for your patience, kindness, and ongoing support while we work through this change. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
💕 Nicole