Tariffs on Tokusatsu Toys? What U.S. Customers Need to Know in 2025 (Updated)

August 23, 2025 Masaki Seike

Last updated: Aug 23, 2025 | Author: CSTOYS International

TL;DR — Starting August 29, 2025, the U.S. will end the $800 “de minimis” duty-free rule for all countries, including Japan. For parcels shipped via Japan Post → USPS, USPS may collect duties and postal handling fees from the recipient upon delivery. For the first six months after the change, a flat duty of USD 80 / 160 / 200 per parcel may apply (based on the applicable tariff band); after that, ad valorem duties apply. Details: U.S. Customs & Duties Policy.

1) What is “de minimis” and what changed?

Under the former U.S. “de minimis” rule, imports valued under USD 800 could enter duty-free with minimal processing. Effective August 29, 2025, the U.S. will globally suspend de minimis for commercial shipments. That means all low-value imports can be assessed duties, taxes, and fees—including those from Japan.

2) How this affects CSTOYS orders from Japan for US Customers

CSTOYS ships exclusively via Japan Post → USPS (international mail) to the U.S. After Aug 29, 2025, USPS may collect U.S. customs duties and postal handling fees from the recipient at delivery or pick-up. Shipping timeframes may vary as postal networks adapt to the new processing requirements.

Important: Duties/fees are assessed by U.S. Customs and USPS—not by CSTOYS. Please review our policy page for the latest details and examples: U.S. Customs & Duties Policy.

3) Who pays duties—and when?

In the U.S., the importer/recipient is responsible for paying any applicable duties, taxes, and postal handling fees. For international mail, these are typically collected by USPS at delivery (or when you pick up at the post office).

4) First six months: flat duties ($80/$160/$200)

For the first six months after Aug 29, 2025, international postal shipments may be charged a flat duty per parcel of USD 80 / 160 / 200 depending on the applicable tariff band. After that introductory period, postal shipments will be assessed ad valorem (percentage-based) duties.

5) Tips to avoid delivery surprises

Expect USPS collection at delivery/pick-up (duties + postal handling fees).
Provide accurate contact details (email/phone) so USPS can reach you if needed.
Track your parcel and have a payment method ready when it arrives.
If you refuse delivery, the parcel may be returned to sender by USPS.
Keep an eye on our updates and the official policy page for any adjustments.

6) Quick FAQ

Q: Does the $800 threshold still protect me from duties?

A: No. From Aug 29, 2025, the $800 de minimis exemption is suspended for commercial shipments from all countries, including Japan.

Q: Can CSTOYS prepay duties (DDP) for USPS mail?

A: Not for international postal shipments. With Japan Post → USPS, duties/fees are typically collected by USPS from the recipient.

Q: What happens if I don’t pay?

A: USPS may not deliver and the parcel can be returned to sender. Please plan for possible duties/fees at delivery.

Q: Will CSTOYS refund my order or shipping if duties are charged?

Important: A: CSTOYS does not refund purchased items nor consumed shipping fees if U.S. duties or postal fees are applied. Duties and fees are assessed by U.S. Customs and USPS, and are the sole responsibility of the recipient.

Stay informed: We’ll keep this page updated. For the most current details and examples, visit our U.S. Customs & Duties Policy.

Important reminder: USPS may collect duties and postal handling fees on U.S. delivery—even below USD 800 after Aug 29, 2025. CSTOYS does not refund purchased items nor consumed shipping fees if duties/fees are applied. See policy: U.S. Customs & Duties Policy.

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