The Impact of New U.S. Tariffs

An Important Update for Our U.S. Customers

It is with a heavy heart that Charms Of Light must announce a temporary pause in shipping my beautiful creations to the United States.  I know how special my U.S. customers are — and this decision truly weighs on me.  Here’s why, and how we’re navigating these uncharted waters together.

What's Changing — and Why

Effective 5th April, 2025, the U.S. government introduced sweeping import tariffs:

• A 10% universal tariff now applies to nearly all imports.
• In addition, a new, de minimis exemption — previously allowing packages worth less than $800 to enter duty-free — is being eliminated, triggering extra tariff burdens up to 145% for some goods.  (Wikipedia, Rest of World, Fashion Network)

The change has stirred significant confusion and operational complexity — particularly for small parcels and e-commerce businesses like Charms Of Light.

The Real Impact on Shipping

This isn't just about added tax — whole postal systems and carriers globally are pausing U.S. deliveries:

• In Hong Kong, the postal service has stopped accepting parcels to the U.S. (sea shipments stopped immediately, airmail ended on 27th April) due to the inability to manage the new tariffs.  (AP News)
• From 29th August, 2025, the U.S. will revoke the de minimis exemption worldwide, affecting international low-cost parcel delivery. (Financial Times)

Even Etsy has also suspended shipping label offerings for U.S.-bound parcels from Royal Mail, Australia Post, Evri, and Canada Post on its platform.  This reflects a broader inability among carriers to manage new duties under current guidance.  (Etsy)

Why We're Pausing — And Why It Matters

Charms Of Light is a small, passionate brand dedicated to bringing joy through handcrafted works.  These sudden, drastic changes mean:

• Shipping logistics have become prohibitively complex.
• Delivery delays are rampant — and unpredictable.
• Costs would rise sharply, forcing us to pass on pricing that conflicts with our mission of offering accessible, heartfelt creations.

The risks to both our operational viability and customer satisfaction are simply too great to ignore.

A Promise of Hope

This pause is temporary — I am fully committed to resuming U.S. shipments as soon as:

1. Carriers restore reliable, tariff-compliant delivery options;
2. Tariff policies become clearer — or less punishing.

In the meantime, if you’re not in the U.S., I'm still here, still sending light and love across borders.

Staying Connected

To show my continued appreciation:

• I’ll explore Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping options soon, to ensure clarity on total costs upfront.
• My newsletter will keep you updated with any news on logistics, policy changes, or new shipping solutions.
• You're always welcome to reach out directly — your support means the world.

Final Thought

I'm saddened to face this challenge — but my commitment to quality, honesty, and connection remains unwavering.  Together, we’ll light the way forward.  Thank you for understanding, for waiting, and for keeping the glow alive.


With love & blessings,
Caryl