26.10.2026 Regulation #USA #Import #E-commerce #Duties

CBP delays formal entry rule for mail shipments to 20 January 2027

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has moved the compliance date for formal entry of certain international mail shipments from 22 October 2026 to 20 January 2027. The final rule was published in the Federal Register on 22 October 2026 (91 FR 66638). A notice modifying the Entry Type 13 test appeared the same day and takes effect on 22 October 2026.

Which shipments are affected

The interim final rule of 24 June 2026 (91 FR 37801) indefinitely suspended the de minimis exemption for mail shipments and created an informal entry process for mail valued at $2,500 or less. The suspension has applied since 24 June 2026; the rest of the rule took effect on 24 July 2026 (final rule).

The following are excluded from the informal postal process and require formal entry (or, for eligible shipments, an Entry Type 13 filing under the test) — 19 CFR 145.12(a)(2)(v) and (vi):

The compliance date for these provisions had earlier been delayed to 22 October 2026; it is now 20 January 2027 (final rule).

Why CBP granted more time, and what stays the same

CBP says importers, brokers and logistics providers need time to update internal systems, develop procedures for submitting the relevant data and build the required technology. Without it, the agency says, the flow of international postal shipments could be disrupted. The rule was issued without prior notice and comment under the APA good cause exception (5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B)): a comment period would have run past the existing compliance date, and the rule imposes no new requirements.

Until 20 January 2027 the existing informal mail entry process does not change. Parties whose processes are already in place may comply earlier (final rule).

Entry Type 13 test: filing without complete PGA data

The Entry Type 13 ("Informal Mail Entry") test in ACE began on 22 September 2026. It covers mail shipments valued at $2,500 or less and offers an electronic alternative to formal entry for parcels subject to PGA requirements or to duties outside Chapters 1–97 of the HTSUS, such as Section 232, 201 or 301 duties. The importer of record, meaning the owner or purchaser of the goods or a licensed broker appointed by them, files the data.

Under the 22 October 2026 modification, CBP will temporarily accept an entry type 13 transmitted without complete electronic PGA data. This lets filers begin using the new entry type while they prepare to submit all required PGA data. CBP will announce the end of this temporary acceptance in a separate Federal Register notice (notice).

What this means for importers and brokers

According to the CBP news release of 14 October, the extension is 90 days. From 20 January 2027, informal entry of postal shipments subject to Section 201, 232 or 301 duties or PGA jurisdiction must go through Entry Type 13 in ACE; otherwise formal entry is required. CBP encourages filers to begin using Entry Type 13 voluntarily during the transition.

CBP Office of Trade Executive Assistant Commissioner Susan S. Thomas said: "These requirements will close gaps that have been exploited by criminals to smuggle contraband sent through international mail" (CBP news release).

In its 8 October "Low-Value Shipments" notice of proposed rulemaking, CBP has proposed extending the new entry and data requirements to all international mail packages except letters and flats (news release). It remains a proposal.

Primary sources

This material is for information only and does not constitute legal advice or customs consulting. Verify changes against the primary sources before acting.