NZ Post Suspends Most Deliveries to U.S. Over Tariff Changes
New Zealand Post has temporarily suspended most parcel deliveries to the United States, effective from August 21. The action comes ahead of new U.S. tariffs on imported goods that take effect on August 29.
Limited Services Continue
Only essential mail—such as letters, passports, legal documents, and other critical documents—will still be delivered. All other parcel services, including economy, tracked, and courier packages, have been put on hold until further notice.
Drivers Behind the Move
The suspension follows a U.S. decision to eliminate the duty-free threshold of $800 for imports, introducing a flat 15% tariff on all packages. Uncertainty over customs procedures and the cost burden of collecting duties led New Zealand Post and other global carriers to pause shipments while seeking clarity.
Global Postal Response
Postal services in several countries—including India, Germany, France, Belgium, and Austria—have taken similar steps to suspend or limit deliveries to the U.S. These actions reflect the widespread operational challenges posed by the sudden policy change.
