The trade relationship between Thailand and the United States has long been a cornerstone of Thai exports. In 2024, shipments from Thailand to the USA were valued at US$66.01 Billion during 2024, covering a diverse range of products such as electronics, auto parts, textiles, and seafood1.
Now, with the announcement of a new set of tariffs under Donald Trump’s administration, Thai importers and exporters must prepare for changes that could reshape their ability to compete in the American market.
Without preparation, businesses may face unexpected costs, delayed shipments, and even penalties. To maintain competitiveness, Thai exporters need to understand the details of these taxes, how they affect shipments to the USA, and what steps they can take to minimize disruptions.
What you need to know about the new tariffs at a glance
The new customs tariffs officially came into effect on 31 July 2025, and they introduce three major changes that directly affect Thai exporters and importers.
The first is the imposition of reciprocal tariffs. Under the new framework, certain categories of Thai goods now face a 19% tariff when entering the USA2. This rate applies to a wide range of product categories, including electronics, industrial machinery, and consumer goods. For Thai businesses, this could reduce demand from American buyers who may look for cheaper alternatives elsewhere.
The second change is a greater focus on preventing transshipment. If shipments are flagged as transshipped from restricted economies, they could be subject to a heavy penalty of up to 40%2. This means Thai exporters must be able to demonstrate, through proper documentation, that their products are genuinely manufactured or processed in Thailand.
Finally, the removal of the de minimis exemption has a major impact on smaller shipments. Previously, goods valued under US$800 could enter the United States without needing to pay customs duty rates3. This exemption has now been suspended. For exporters of low-value items such as apparel, accessories, or food products, this change may alter pricing strategies and shipping models altogether.
How to minimize the impact on your business
Although the new tariffs create obstacles, Thai businesses can take proactive steps to protect themselves when importing, exporting or shipping to the USA.
Know your HTS code
The starting point for compliance is accurate product classification. Every product must be matched with its 10-digit Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code, which determines the applicable USA customs duty rate4. Incorrect codes can not only result in overpayment but also raise red flags during customs inspections.
Strengthen your documentation
With transshipment under heightened scrutiny, exporters and importers must ensure that their documentation is clear, complete, and error-free. Certificates of origin, commercial invoices, and packing lists must all align to prove that goods originate from Thailand. Any discrepancies could lead to delays, penalties, or higher import and export tax as determined by customs clearance.
Proactively calculate costs
Rising tariffs can quickly erode margins if not factored into pricing. Thai exporters should re-calculate their export taxes to the USA and adjust their pricing strategies accordingly. Digital platforms like MyDHL+ allow businesses to pre-calculate duties and surcharges, ensuring transparent communication with USA buyers and avoiding unwelcome surprises.
How to calculate customs duties when shipping from Thailand to the US
To calculate the USA customs duty rates payable, Thai exporters need three essential pieces of information: the 10-digit HTS code, all applicable duty rates, and the total CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the shipment. You can use DHL’s MyGTS platform for accurate landed cost estimates, or calculate manually by following these steps.
Step 1: Identify the HTS code
Determine the correct HTS code for your product. This classification dictates the baseline duty rate and whether your product falls under the new 19% reciprocal tariff.
Step 2: Check the duty rates
Once you know the HTS code, identify all duties and surcharges that apply. These may include:
- The base HTS duty for the product category
- The 19% reciprocal tariff (if applicable)
- Excise duties for restricted goods such as alcohol or tobacco
Step 3: Determine the CIF value
The CIF value represents the sum of the declared invoice value of the goods, insurance costs, and freight charges to the USA port of entry. Customs duties are always calculated on this total value, not just the invoice price.
Step 4: Apply duties and surcharges
To determine the total duty payable, multiply the CIF value by the HTS duty rate, then add any surcharges.
For example, if you are exporting machinery with a CIF value of US$50,000, and the duty rate is 2% plus the new 19% tariff, you would get US$10,500 in total duties.
Ship with confidence with DHL Express
In a more complex regulatory environment, exporters need more than just a delivery provider. They need a logistics partner with expertise in compliance, customs, and cross-border solutions. DHL Express offers Thai businesses that level of support when shipping to the USA.
Customs expertise
Our team of customs specialists stays updated on evolving USA trade policies, helping exporters navigate requirements such as HTS classification, certificates of origin, and valuation. With our guidance, you can avoid missteps that lead to costly penalties.
Efficient customs clearance and calculation of duties
DHL Express’s global network and local expertise streamline customs clearance, ensuring faster processing even under stricter USA inspections. With our suite of shipping cost checking tools, businesses can calculate duties in advance and ensure shipments meet USA entry requirements without delay.
End-to-end visibility
From pick-up in Thailand to delivery in the USA, DHL Express provides complete visibility of your shipment. Real-time tracking allows you to monitor progress, manage expectations with USA buyers, and confirm delivery on time.
Conclusion: Preparing for the future of Thai-US trade
The suspension of the de minimis exemption, the imposition of reciprocal tariffs, and stricter transshipment enforcement mark a new chapter in Thai-USA trade relations. For exporters, the road ahead requires diligence, accurate documentation, and proactive cost management.
By partnering with DHL Express, Thai businesses gain more than just a courier service. They access global expertise, compliance support, and digital tools designed to simplify international trade.
If you’re shipping to the USA, use the DHL Express online shipping cost calculator to get transparent, upfront estimates on duties, surcharges, and international parcel services. Calculate your shipping costs now and ship to the USA with confidence.
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