New 125% U.S. Tariff on Chinese Imports: What It Means for You

10th April 2025, 2:02pm in News by Dan Jones

In a major shake-up for global trade, the U.S. Government has announced a steep rise in tariffs on Chinese imports — raising them to 125% as of April 9, 2025. This forms part of a broader effort to bolster U.S. manufacturing and clamp down on trade practices seen as unfair or retaliatory.

While other countries were granted a 90-day pause in tariff hikes, China has been specifically targeted due to ongoing trade tensions and recent countermeasures taken against U.S. imports.

Sections in this guide:

- How will this affect senders to the U.S.?
- What Interparcel customers should do next
- Timeline of Trump Tariffs on China in 2025
- Need help? We're here to assist
- Why use Interparcel to send to the U.S.?
- Ready to ship to the U.S.?

How Will This Affect Senders to the U.S.?

If you're using Interparcel to send parcels to the U.S.—particularly items made in China—this update has some important implications you should be aware of:

1. Higher Costs for Chinese-Origin Products

Goods made in China and shipped to the U.S. will now face a 125% import tariff, regardless of where they're dispatched from, or their age. That means even if you send from the UK, the origin of manufacture determines whether the tariff applies.

2. No More $800 Duty-Free Limit

The U.S. has now scrapped the de minimis rule (which previously allowed shipments under $800 USD to enter tariff-free) for Chinese goods. Now, even low-value shipments are subject to the full 125% duty if they contain items manufactured in China.

3. Increased Customs Scrutiny

With the tariffs in place, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is expected to ramp up inspections. This means there’s a higher risk of delays, especially for shipments with missing or unclear origin information.

What Interparcel Customers Should Do Next

To reduce the risk of shipment delays, unexpected costs, or penalties, here are our key recommendations:

Check Country of Origin Carefully

Make sure the country of manufacture is accurately declared in your customs paperwork. If U.S. Customs determines the actual origin is different from what you’ve declared, your goods could be confiscated, and fines and additional fees may be charged to your account—even on low-value items.

Reassess Product Pricing

If you're regularly sending products made in China to the U.S., now is the time to review your pricing. With the 125% tariff in effect, you'll need to account for this when calculating your landed cost.

Communicate with Your Customers

Shipping costs and timelines may be impacted, so it's a good idea to be upfront with your U.S. customers. Letting them know about changes due to U.S. customs policies can help manage expectations and build trust.

Stay Informed and Compliant

U.S. trade policy can change quickly. Keep an eye on official updates or subscribe to Interparcel newsletters for the latest information affecting international shipping.

Double Check Your Paperwork

Every shipment to the U.S. must include a properly completed commercial invoice with accurate product descriptions and country-of-origin information. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork can cause delays and result in fines.

Timeline of Trump Tariffs on China - 2025

Feb 1, 2025: Trump imposes a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports (effective Feb 4).
Feb 10, 2025: China responds with 10–15% tariffs on U.S. goods like LNG, oil, and machinery.
Mar 4, 2025: U.S. raises tariffs to 20%. China counters with additional agricultural tariffs.
Apr 2, 2025: Trump announces a 34% reciprocal tariff on Chinese goods, increasing the total to 54%.
Apr 4, 2025: China retaliates with 34% tariffs on all U.S. imports and launches further trade actions.
Apr 7, 2025: Trump warns of a 50% additional tariff if China doesn’t withdraw retaliatory measures.
Apr 9, 2025: After China refuses, the U.S. adds the extra 50%, bringing the rate to 104%.
Later on Apr 9, 2025: Trump increases tariffs again — final rate: 125% on all Chinese-origin imports.

Need Help? We're Here To Assist

These new measures have created a compelex and fast-moving situation for businesses shipping internationally. Whether you're a casual sender or run an e-commerce store, our team is here to help you stay complaint and minimise disruption.

Interparcel is committed to supporting you through these changes - offering tools, advice and flexible courier services so that you can continue to ship confidently, even as global trade evolves.

Why Use Interparcel to Send to the U.S.?

Whether you're sending parcels to customers, business partners, or friends in the United States, Interparcel makes international shipping easy, affordable, and reliable—even in the face of changing regulations.

Here’s why thousands of UK senders choose Interparcel for their U.S. deliveries:

Unbeatable Courier Choice

Access a wide range of trusted international carriers—including FedEx, UPS, DHL, and more—at discounted rates. Compare prices and services in seconds to find the best option for your needs.

Simple Booking Process

Sending internationally doesn’t have to be complicated. Our easy-to-use booking system walks you through every step, from selecting your courier to completing customs paperwork—so you can ship with confidence, even with changing U.S. import rules.

Real-Time Tracking & Notifications

Keep tabs on your parcel every step of the way, with full tracking and delivery updates available 24/7.

No Account Needed

Book and send right away—no lengthy sign-up process required. But if you do have an account, you’ll enjoy added features like address books, order history, and multiple time-saving account tools.

Expert Help When You Need It

Our award-nominated customer service team is here to answer your questions, whether it's about documentation, delays, or how the latest tariffs might affect your shipment.