How the New U.S. Import Rules Affect UK Exporters, and How Cargo Dynamic Keeps Your Business Moving

If your business exports to the United States, you’ll already know how valuable that market is, and how fast it’s changing. The U.S. is the UK’s largest export destination, accounting for over £200 billion annually and nearly a quarter of all UK exports. Yet as of 29 August 2025, new import rules have reshaped trade for British exporters.

The U.S. government has removed the $800 de minimis exemption, which previously allowed low-value goods to enter the country duty-free. Now, every commercial shipment, regardless of value, must undergo full customs clearance and may be subject to tariffs and duties.

For UK exporters, this means higher costs, additional paperwork, and potential delivery delays. But with the right logistics partner, it doesn’t have to disrupt your business. At Cargo Dynamic, we’re helping our clients stay compliant, cost-efficient, and confident as they navigate this new trade environment.

What’s Changed, and Why It Matters

Under the old system, goods valued under $800 (around £590) could enter the U.S. without a formal customs entry. A full import clearance requirement for every shipment has now replaced that process. Exporters must now provide:

• Complete customs declarations for each item.
• Accurate HS codes, detailed product descriptions, and country-of-origin data.
• Payment of applicable duties and tariffs before release.

Depending on product type, tariffs may include Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rates, reciprocal tariffs (currently 10% under IEEPA), or Section 232 tariffs on metals and regulated goods. These may combine, increasing total landed costs. Customs and carriers are also facing higher data compliance requirements, which may lead to short-term delays as systems adjust.

The Impact on UK Exporters

This change has significant implications across key UK export sectors, including technology, food & drink, automotive, and life sciences. Even small businesses selling directly to U.S. customers will feel the impact. Without preparation, exporters could face:

• Unexpected customs charges and duty payments.
• Longer clearance times and delivery delays.
• Rejected entries due to incomplete documentation.
• Cashflow strain from advance duty payments.

Compliance is now non-negotiable, but with expert planning, exporters can stay competitive and even find opportunities within these new regulations.

Turning Change into Opportunity with Cargo Dynamic

At Cargo Dynamic, we see logistics challenges as opportunities to add value and resilience to your business. Our expertise in project logistics, customs brokerage, and multimodal freight ensures that your shipments continue to move seamlessly, whatever changes the trade landscape brings.

1. Seamless Customs Brokerage

Our in-house customs team handles every aspect of compliance, from tariff classification to electronic filing. We verify every entry for accuracy and ensure your shipments meet all U.S. Customs and Border Protection and UK export standards. Where possible, we identify preferential rates under the UK–U.S. Economic Prosperity Deal to reduce costs.

2. Flexible Multimodal Freight Solutions

We provide tailored transport across sea, air, and road, optimising each mode for cost and speed. Whether it’s FCL containers, out-of-gauge equipment, or time-critical air freight, we create bespoke routing strategies to match your project’s priorities. Our First Flight and Charter Air Freight services guarantee capacity and reliability for urgent shipments.

3. Real-Time Visibility and Control

Our advanced digital platform offers full shipment visibility. You can monitor every movement, receive automated alerts, and access documents instantly. That transparency allows you to manage costs, anticipate issues, and deliver on customer promises with confidence.

4. Risk Management and Contingency Planning

A detailed risk assessment and contingency plan support every shipment. We evaluate potential disruptions , from customs delays to weather events , and prepare alternative transport options to keep your supply chain resilient.

5. Strategic Trade Advisory

We act as an extension of your logistics team, advising on tariff strategy, Incoterms, and landed-cost optimisation. We’ll help you decide whether Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) or Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) best suits your operations, protecting your margins and your customer relationships.

Preparing for the New Era of Transatlantic Trade

The removal of the de minimis threshold reflects a wider global trend, increased regulation and transparency in international logistics. Businesses that adapt early will lead the pack. Here’s how to prepare:

• Audit your product classifications and HS codes for accuracy.
• Include tariffs and fees in your export pricing models.
• Reassess your Incoterms and delivery structures.
• Adopt technology for real-time shipment tracking and documentation.
• Partner with a logistics provider experienced in U.S. customs procedures.

With Cargo Dynamic by your side, compliance becomes an advantage, helping you move faster, smarter, and more competitively in the U.S. market.