Australia Post Halts U.S. Parcels as Tariffs Threaten Holiday Gifting

Brisbane, August 26, 2025 — Australians hoping to send holiday gifts to loved ones in the United States may be left scrambling this year, after Australia Post announced it will suspend most U.S.-bound parcel deliveries effective immediately. The move comes just days before sweeping U.S. tariff changes take effect on August 29, eliminating duty-free entry for parcels under $US800 ($1,230).

The sudden change means only letters, documents, and low-value gifts under $US100 ($153) will be accepted by Australia Post, leaving retailers and families facing major disruption ahead of the holiday season.

"We are disappointed we have had to take this action," Australia Post executive Gary Starr said in a statement. "However, due to the complex and rapidly evolving situation, a temporary partial suspension has been necessary to allow us to develop and implement a workable solution for our customers."

A Blow to Holiday Traditions

The suspension comes at a critical time, with Christmas shipping deadlines looming. Australian retailers who rely on U.S. customers are facing halted orders, while families attempting to send gifts abroad risk delays, unexpected tariffs, or flat fees of up to $US80 on low-value items.

Australians Turn to Alternatives

With traditional shipping disrupted, many consumers are pivoting to alternatives:

• Shopping U.S.-based retailers to bypass tariffs and delays.

• Consolidated courier services offered by private carriers, though these come with higher compliance hurdles.

• Digital gifting, including e-gift cards and instant experience vouchers — which avoid both shipping delays and tariffs.

"Tariffs add another layer of complexity to the already stressful process of sending parcels in time for the holiday season," said Jackie Babbage, CEO of global experience gifting platform Gifting Owl. "We're seeing Australians turn to digital experience gifts because they're instant, tariff-free, and guaranteed to arrive in time".

Plan Early, Think Digital

Australia Post has not given a timeline for service resumption, advising it is working "at pace" with U.S. Customs and international partners to find a solution. In the meantime, consumers are urged to plan early and explore alternatives, especially as Christmas approaches.

About Gifting Owl

Gifting Owl is a Brisbane-based global experience gifting platform offering over 20,000+ activities with instant digital delivery. Learn more at giftingowl.com

Media inquiries:
media@giftingowl.com

ENDS