Tariffs Hit US Consumers Hard as UPS Faces Shipping Chaos
UPDATE: US consumers are grappling with the immediate impact of new tariffs as UPS faces significant shipping disruptions. Reports reveal that the chaos surrounding small orders has left many customers frustrated and out of pocket, with some facing unexpected fees and delays.
Rich DeThomas from Huntsville, Alabama, ordered a dozen bottles of red wine from Italy in late August, only to discover that UPS couldn’t deliver them due to recent tariff changes. The shipment, which he expected to arrive without a hitch, was held up indefinitely, forcing him to receive a replacement shipment while also incurring a $13 fee for “abandoning” the original case. “It’s the headache of dealing with it all,” DeThomas lamented. “What the hell? What’s going on?”
This turmoil is a direct result of President Donald Trump’s announcement in April 2023, imposing sweeping tariffs on goods entering the US. The elimination of the $800 de minimis loophole in August has only intensified the situation, leaving consumers like DeThomas to navigate the complexities of tariffs on everyday purchases.
UPS has reportedly left many US-bound packages sitting in its warehouses for days, causing anxiety among consumers. According to reports, some packages face disposal due to customs complications. UPS did not respond to inquiries regarding DeThomas’ experience or the specific policies affecting his shipment.
Katie Golden, a reseller from Depop, experienced a shocking situation when she ordered $179 worth of used apparel from the UK. To her surprise, UPS billed her a whopping $769 upon arrival, including a $54 brokerage fee. “It shouldn’t be this hard to order a package,” Golden expressed, as she attempts to dispute the charges.
The shipping confusion extends beyond clothing. Tom Strohl, president of consulting firm Oliver Wight Americas, warned that businesses might lose customers if they cannot clearly communicate tariff costs. “If customers are confused, it’s going to affect their brand,” he stated, highlighting the pressing need for businesses to adapt.
As the holiday shopping season approaches, Kunal Sharma, who runs two Ontario-based businesses selling luxury car parts, is already witnessing UPS lose or return shipments due to the new tariff regulations. “I can’t even imagine how bad it’ll get on Black Friday,” he said, anticipating more chaos ahead.
Other consumers are reconsidering their international shopping habits. George Hayes from North Carolina imports popular figurines from Japan but is now hesitant to place more orders due to the new tariffs. His last shipment cost him around $700 in tariffs alone, and he now faces the extra burden of declaring the country of manufacture for many secondhand items.
With inflation expected to rise and shipping complications continuing, the repercussions of these tariffs are becoming a stark reality for many Americans. As UPS struggles to manage the chaos, consumers are left with mounting questions and concerns about the future of their online shopping experiences.
What’s next? With rising frustration and uncertainty, customers are urged to remain vigilant about their purchases and shipping options. As the situation develops, consumers are sharing their experiences in hopes of shedding light on this pressing issue affecting countless Americans.
If you have a story to share about UPS or tariffs, contact this reporter at [email protected] or 808-854-4501.
