International Postal Services Suspend Small Parcel Shipments to the U.S.
Several international postal services, including Spain’s Correos and the U.K.’s Royal Mail, have announced suspensions of shipments of small parcels to the United States, effective Monday. This temporary suspension will last until postal services can implement practical solutions to comply with new U.S. regulations, reports 24brussels.
Correos stated that “the suspension will be maintained for the time strictly necessary to adopt the necessary operational measures to meet the new obligations of the United States.” This decision aligns with a broader pattern of adjustments as international operators adapt to shifting postal regulations.
The Royal Mail expressed optimism that the disruption would last only a few days, asserting that a “new system” would be implemented promptly. However, the interruptions underscore a lack of preparedness attributed to the U.S. failing to allow adequate time for compliance with the new rules.
France’s La Post criticized U.S. customs for not providing sufficient notice, stating, “Despite discussions with the U.S. customs services, no time was granted to postal operators to organize themselves and ensure the necessary IT developments for compliance with the new established rules.”
This regulatory change comes shortly after the U.S. and the European Union finalized a new trade agreement aimed at resolving ongoing tariff disputes between the two entities. The timing has raised questions about the implications of such a sudden shift in postal regulations and its impact on international trade.
As postal services navigate these challenges, the broader consequences for e-commerce and international shipping remain to be seen. Operators and consumers alike are watching closely as the situation develops.
