eBay Updates International Sellers On US Tariff & De Minimis Changes, Promising Support & Protections

eBay is getting out ahead of new tariff and de minimis changes, publishing updates for international sellers with the latest information and promises of support and protection in effort to keep cross border trade moving.

After President Trump signed an executive order last week moving up the end of the de minimis exemption to August 29, 2025, eBay has posted announcements in their UK and Australia community forums to help sellers prepare for the massive changes coming their way.

Navigating New US Tariffs: Support and Solutions for UK Sellers

We understand that the recent announcement regarding US tariffs may have brought uncertainty, especially for those of you who frequently sell into the US market. We remain committed to supporting you through these changes.

What’s happening?

• 1 August 2025: New or higher US import tariffs begin on certain categories (e.g. some steel, aluminium and copper items).
• 29 August 2025: All imports into the United States, regardless of value, will be subject to duties.

Duty rates depend on:

• “Country/Region of Manufacture” (country of origin)
• Item category
• Declared value

Shipments sent via postal services may temporarily be charged either the exact tariff rate or a carrier-specific flat fee (available only until February 2026). Expect longer customs processing times as the new rules take effect.

eBay is advising sellers to make sure they’ve filled in Country/Region of Manufacture item specifics to helps US buyers anticipate potential duties and make informed purchasing decisions – but that could be difficult for some Motors categories which are currently experiencing a technical issue limiting which countries can be selected.

eBay is also promising to protect international sellers in the following ways:

• We’ll auto-adjust late-shipment metrics when valid tracking shows customs-related delays.
• Any defects and negative feedback linked to tariffs or duties will be removed.
• Our seller-protection team will continue monitoring carrier performance and customs hold times.

And they provided the following FAQ:

Frequently asked questions

How will eBay protect sellers?
We’re taking proactive steps to protect our sellers by adjusting late shipment rates and removing associated defects when valid tracking indicates delays caused by shipping issues. Additionally, we’ll remove negative feedback related to tariffs, ensuring your reputation remains intact.

Can buyers cancel or return because of tariffs?
Buyers remain responsible for duties and fees, and sellers are not obliged to accept cancellations or returns due to tariffs or customs charges.

What if a buyer does not pay duties or fees?
If buyers fail to pay tariffs, associated fees, or provide the required information to carriers, they generally will not receive their item. The subsequent handling of the item depends on the carrier’s policies.

eBay Money Back Guarantee does not apply when the buyer refuses to pay required import charges.

Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the August 29th deadline and let us know in the comments below how these change will impact your international sales on eBay!