U.S. CBP Launches Electronic Entry Test for Low-Value E-Commerce Shipments

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced that an electronic entry test for Entry Type 13 low-value shipments will officially launch in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) on September 22. The program targets imported packages valued at USD 2,500 or less and introduces a simplified electronic declaration process. The initiative represents another step toward digitizing U.S. customs procedures for high-volume, low-value e-commerce shipments.

Under the new test, eligible low-value parcels will gradually move from traditional postal processing toward a more standardized, traceable and electronic customs declaration framework. Participating shipments will require ongoing monthly reporting, with duties and applicable charges settled through Pay.gov. For cross-border e-commerce sellers, freight forwarders and customs brokers, the change could improve shipment visibility while placing greater emphasis on accurate electronic data and regulatory compliance.

The policy becomes particularly important from October 22, when certain product categories will be excluded from the simplified declaration channel. These include goods subject to Chapter 98/99 special tariff provisions, products benefiting from duty-free treatment under specific trade arrangements, and commodities regulated by Partner Government Agencies (PGAs), such as cosmetics, children's products, food-contact materials and other controlled goods. Importers will therefore need to verify product eligibility carefully before selecting the new entry method.

For businesses shipping from China to the United States, the CBP test signals a broader shift toward data-driven and compliance-focused management of low-value imports. Sellers should review HS classifications, product descriptions, declared values, regulatory requirements and PGA obligations before shipment to reduce the risk of customs delays. As U.S. e-commerce import rules continue to evolve, accurate documentation and compliant customs clearance will become increasingly important for maintaining reliable delivery and controlling logistics costs.