US Customs Basics for Private Buyers
When a package enters the United States, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) evaluates it based on declared value, contents description, and country of origin. For personal shipments under $800 USD in total value, the de minimis threshold applies: no formal entry is required, and duties are typically not assessed. This $800 threshold is per shipment per day, not per item. If your order is under $800 and contains personal-use quantities (not commercial bulk), you will almost never pay duties on a Hipobuy order.
Declared Value: What Suppliers Write
Suppliers typically declare a lower value than the actual product cost to reduce the chance of duties and to align with common shipping practices. While this is widespread, it is technically inaccurate and can cause issues if customs questions the declared value. In 2026, CBP has increased scrutiny on low-value declarations from high-volume shippers, though individual buyers remain low-priority targets. The safest approach is a realistic but modest declaration — enough to look plausible without attracting attention.
When You Might Actually Pay Duties
| Order over $800 | Formal entry may be required. Duties assessed at applicable tariff rate (typically 6-15% for textiles and footwear). |
| Multiple packages same day | CBP may aggregate same-day shipments to the same recipient. Space large orders across different days. |
| Suspicious description | Vague or evasive descriptions trigger manual inspection. Clear descriptions like 'men's sneakers' are safer. |
| High volume pattern | Frequent large shipments to the same address can flag the recipient for commercial import behavior. |
What Happens If Your Package Is Held
If CBP holds your package for inspection, the carrier will notify you with a tracking update and sometimes an email. You do not need to take action unless CBP requests additional documentation — typically a copy of your payment receipt or a statement of use. Most holds resolve in 24-72 hours. If duties are assessed, the carrier usually pays them on your behalf and invoices you before final delivery, adding a small processing fee ($5-15). You can pay the carrier online or at delivery.
Best Practices for Smooth Clearance
- 1Keep individual shipments under $800 when possible.
- 2Ask your supplier for a clear, simple description — not 'gift' or 'sample' unless accurate.
- 3Avoid shipping more than one substantial package per day to the same address.
- 4Use express carriers (DHL, FedEx) for better customs documentation and faster resolution if held.
- 5Keep your payment receipt in case CBP requests proof of value.