You may have heard about some changes to customs requirements for goods being imported to the USA, including that goods valued at $800 or less will no longer be exempt from import duties and taxes from Friday 29 August 2025.
On 30th July 2025, the United States Government announced an Executive Order which outlined significant changes to the customs requirements and processes for goods being imported into the USA from 29th August 2025. These changes affect goods entering the USA from any country in the world, including the UK.
Removal of duty-free for low value items – previously, items valued at less than $800 could enter the USA without having to pay customs duties. That’s changing and from 29th August, goods, regardless of value, may now be subject to import tariffs (duties), however, gifts valued at $100 or less, do not attract duties.
Cards or letters (including printed certificates, which don’t require a customs declaration, do not attract customs duties and we can continue to send these items to the USA without additional charges.
What does this mean for SOTA awards and merchandise (excluding certificates)?
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The $100 limit converts to about 70 UK Pounds so orders must be restricted to this maximum amount.
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All purchases (except certificates) will be sent using a Tracked postal service
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A small surcharge will be incorporated into the shipping charge to cover additional handling fees charged by Royal Mail and USPS. This will be reviewed to ensure it only covers the actual costs – excess payment will be refunded.
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All items are sent as “Gifts”, however SOTA are now obliged to state the country of origin of all goods and this may result in tariffs being applied; under these circumstances the item will not be shipped and the purchaser asked if they are willing to cover any additional import costs.
Barry GM4TOE
SOTA Awards Manager