The change is set to affect Australian retailers shipping to the US and those sending gifts valued at over $150.

What parcels will be affected?

The change will primarily affect Australian businesses that are selling to American customers, or Australians sending over expensive presents to loved ones across the ocean.

International shipping brand DHL said any parcels declared as a gift would be subject to “even stricter controls than before to prevent the misuse of private gift shipments for sending commercial goods”.

Why is Australia Post suspending parcels to the US?

Australia Post’s temporary partial suspension also includes parcels to Puerto Rico, as it is a US customs territory and has also been impacted by tariff changes.

How much more will it cost to send parcels to the US?

The new rules would mean Australian businesses shipping to the US would need to pay import duties before the shipment leaves for the US.

What other countries have done the same?

Austria’s Österreichische Post and the United Kingdom’s Royal Mail are expected to stop sending parcels to the US by the end of August.

“Australia Post continues to work with US and Australian authorities and international postal partners to resume postal service to the US as a priority,” he said.

What’s the reaction been?

“My only other option currently for international shipping is DHL, the shipping cost starts at $55 AUD or $65 … for some addresses into the US it can be as much as $120 AUD.”