Shipping

U.S. Import & Customs Information

Important customs and duty information for U.S. customers ordering from Scatter Instruments.

Last Updated: August 28, 2025

Applies to all U.S. importsDuties-paid shipping availableCustoms documents included

At a glance

The $800 duty-free threshold ended on August 29, 2025
All U.S. shipments are now subject to import duties and taxes
Choose a duties-paid (DDP) option at checkout to pay them up front
With other options, the courier collects duties before delivery

A comprehensive guide for U.S. customers on recent changes to import duties and customs requirements for Scatter Instruments orders.

1 Understanding the De Minimis Rule

The De Minimis Rule previously permitted goods valued at $800 or less to enter the United States without customs duties or taxes. This exemption made international commerce faster and more affordable for U.S. customers.

Key Update: As of August 29, 2025, the U.S. government has abolished the $800 duty-free threshold. All international shipments, regardless of value, are now subject to import duties and taxes. As the buyer, you are responsible for paying these fees upon delivery.

2 Impact on Your Orders

This U.S. government directive applies to imports from all countries. Here is how things have changed:

Before August 29, 2025

Items valued at $800 or less were exempt from duties and taxes, ensuring quick and cost-free entry into the U.S.

After August 29, 2025

All packages, regardless of value, are subject to customs duties, taxes, and regulatory reviews — which may increase costs and cause delays.

What This Means for You

Financial Responsibility: You are responsible for all duties, taxes, and fees required by U.S. Customs — separate from our product prices.
Collection Process: The shipping carrier (e.g., DHL, FedEx, UPS) will collect these fees before finalizing delivery.
Unpredictable Costs: These fees are set by the U.S. government and cannot be predicted or calculated by us in advance.
Potential Delays: Enhanced customs reviews may extend shipping and delivery times.

3 Our Commitment to You

While this policy is beyond our control, Scatter Instruments remains committed to your satisfaction. We provide precise customs documentation with every shipment to streamline processing and are available to support any documentation challenges.

4 Official Government Resources

Presidential DirectiveSuspending Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment for All Countries
U.S. Customs GuidanceBasic Importing and Exporting Information

5 Avoid Surprise Charges: Choose Duties Paid

At checkout, U.S. customers can choose shipping options with duties already included, so there is nothing more to pay on delivery:

UPS Premium Service, duties paid (5–6 days)
DPD Service, duties paid (8–12 days)
UPS Duties Paid Express (12–14 days)
UPS Duties Paid Economy (18–22 days)

If you choose an option marked “custom duties paid by client”, such as DHL Express, the courier will contact you to pay duties before delivering. Availability depends on your order; see Delivery Information.

Need help with your order or customs documentation?