Australia Post Suspends Parcel Shipping to the US: What It Means for Your Shopify or Squarespace eCommerce Store
As a leading Squarespace and Shopify website designer in Australia, I stay on top of changes that affect online businesses. Starting 29 August 2025, Australia Post has temporarily halted parcel postage to the US due to new tariffs. This impacts eCommerce stores built on platforms like Shopify and Squarespace. Below, I break down the details and share practical steps to adapt.
Why Has Australia Post Paused US Parcel Shipping?
New US tariff rules, effective from 29 August 2025, end the "de minimis" exemption. Previously, items under $US800 (about $1,230 AUD) entered duty-free. Now, tariffs apply based on the item's country of origin or flat fees over $US80.
Australia Post couldn't update systems in time to collect these fees upfront, leading to the suspension. This affects parcels but spares letters, documents, and gifts under $150 AUD. Other countries like Norway and Sweden face similar issues.
Australia Post executive Gary Starr noted: "We are disappointed we have had to take this action. 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."
Impacts on Australian eCommerce Businesses
For Shopify and Squarespace store owners shipping to the US, this means delays and potential extra costs. Small retailers using services like MyPost Business are hit hardest, facing confusion and possible large bills that can't always be passed to customers.
Sendle's chief executive James Chin Moody highlighted: "A small business could face a large bill that they can't pass on to their customer." If your eCommerce site relies on US sales, this could disrupt operations and customer trust.
Alternatives for Shipping to the US
Private couriers like FedEx are continuing services, as they can collect duties in advance. Options include:
Paying duties upfront.
Using invoicing systems.
Employing "bond" brokers to cover fees.
Australia Post is exploring third-party solutions but hasn't set a restart date. An executive order might delay the tariffs, but act now to switch providers.
How to Update Your Squarespace or Shopify Website
As an experienced Squarespace website designer and Shopify expert, I recommend immediate site adjustments to maintain smooth operations. Key actions:
Add Shipping Notices: Update your shipping policy page with clear alerts about US delays. In Shopify, edit your policy template; in Squarespace, use a dedicated page or banner.
Adjust Checkout Settings: Highlight alternative shipping options or restrict US deliveries temporarily to avoid issues.
Communicate with Customers: Send email updates via integrated tools like Klaviyo (for Shopify) or Squarespace Email Campaigns.
Optimise for Local Markets: Focus on Australian or other international audiences to offset US impacts.
These changes ensure your site remains user-friendly and conversion-focused—core to effective eCommerce website design.
Next Steps for Your Business
Don't let shipping hurdles slow your growth. If you need help refining your Squarespace or Shopify site, contact me at BYKP Website Design. We'll tailor updates to keep your store resilient.
Ready to elevate your online presence? Book a consultation today.
