I've been seeing a lot of confusion and concern lately about the upcoming changes to US import fees, especially from Canadian and UK yarn dyers and small craft businesses. Some Canadian dyers have even announced they’ll stop shipping to the US mid-August. It’s clear that a lot of us are still trying to sort out what’s changing, what it means, and how it’ll affect our beloved yarn and advent purchases. So I wanted to put together a clear, accessible overview for fellow knitters and crafters.
This post is based on the most current information available as of August 2025; as always, things can change. I’ll be keeping an eye on updates, but here’s what you need to know right now.
What’s Changing?
Starting August 29, 2025, the US is ending the $800 duty-free import threshold (also known as the "de minimis" exemption). This applies to all international shipments, including from trusted trading partners like the UK and Canada.
If you’re a US buyer who has enjoyed ordering yarn or advents from international dyers with no surprise fees at delivery, that’s about to change.
This change is being implemented under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which gives the US government the ability to override trade deals and enforce emergency policies, including the suspension of de minimis entry benefits.
What to Expect for Fees
There are two phases to the new import process:
Phase 1: Flat Fee Period (Aug 29, 2025 – ~Feb/March 2026)
During this period, if your package is mailed via postal service, you’ll likely receive a USPS notice to pay the import fee before delivery. These flat fees apply per package, even if the total is well below $800.
Phase 2: Percentage-Based Tariffs (~March 2026 onward)
After the flat fee period, packages will be charged based on a percentage of declared value:
Yarn and similar fiber goods: typically 10–15%
Example: A $250 advent calendar = ~$25–$37 in duties
🇨🇦 What About Canada and CUSMA?
Many people have asked whether CUSMA/USMCA (the trade agreement between the US, Canada, and Mexico) provides an exemption. The answer is no, not anymore.
While CUSMA is still in effect, the US has suspended de minimis treatment entirely, even for countries with which it has trade agreements. That means goods from Canada will still be subject to import fees regardless of paperwork.
Why This Matters for Yarn Buyers
Many of us have grown used to ordering directly from small businesses in the UK, Canada, Australia, and beyond. These purchases have often arrived with no added fees, making it easy to support indie dyers from around the world.
Now, those same purchases could come with $80–$160 in surprise charges, even for a single skein or a $250 advent kit. That adds up quickly.
I want all my fellow knitters to be informed and prepared, not shocked when their advents show up with a bill.
What Can You Do?
Plan ahead financially for any international orders shipping after August 29th
Ask sellers whether they use couriers, ship DDP (Delivered Duties Paid), or plan to ship before the deadline
Consider combining purchases into one package when possible
Support your favorite dyers by spreading awareness; many of them are equally confused and frustrated
Subject to Change
This post is accurate as of early August 2025. Things could still shift due to court decisions, administrative updates, or international pressure. I’ll do my best to update you if that happens.
Until then, I hope this breakdown helps you make informed choices and avoid surprises. We all love our yarn, and we deserve to know what’s coming.
Let’s support our favorite dyers (and our budgets) as best we can.