Postal Service Decline: A 81% Drop in US Mail Deliveries Recorded

The introduction of new U.S. customs regulations has led to a significant decrease in international mail traffic to the United States. According to the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in Bern, there has been an 81% decrease in international mail traffic following the abolition of the duty-free status for imports valued under $800, which took effect on August 29.

The UPU compared data from August 29 with the value from a week prior to establish the decrease. The specific identities of the 87 other postal service providers worldwide that have partially or fully ceased operations for shipping to the USA following the new customs regulations are not publicly listed. However, it is known that the changes primarily affected international postal shipments subject to new customs duties, leading many providers to suspend or adjust services temporarily.

One of the providers that have suspended service is DHL, which operates under the Deutsche Post brand. This suspension has led to a decline in mail traffic to the U.S. that is expected to continue, according to a spokesperson for the UPU.

The decline in mail traffic is a result of U.S. President Donald Trump's justification for the customs change, citing the large-scale smuggling of dangerous drugs in duty-free packages. In recent years, duty-free package deliveries have increased, in part due to Chinese platforms like Temu and Shein.

However, as of Friday, service providers have access to a program that allows them to calculate and pay the necessary duties for sending mail to the U.S. The UPU is also working on technical solutions to resume postal traffic with the U.S.

In conclusion, the new customs regulations have had a significant impact on international mail traffic to the U.S., with many postal service providers suspending or adjusting their services. The UPU is working to find solutions to resume postal traffic and allow for the continued flow of international mail.