AliExpress to USA No Customs Fees Guide 2024

If you're shopping on AliExpress and shipping to the USA, one question keeps popping up: "Will I get hit with surprise customs fees?" The good news? In most cases, you won’t. Thanks to a little-known U.S. trade rule called the de minimis value, most small international packages fly under the radar—no customs, no extra charges.

What Is the De Minimis Rule?

Since 2016, the U.S. raised its de minimis threshold to $800 per person, per day. That means any goods imported from abroad (including China via AliExpress) valued under $800 are exempt from customs duties and taxes. So unless you're ordering a high-end drone or bulk electronics, your package likely qualifies.

This is a game-changer compared to countries like Canada or Australia, where the threshold is much lower ($20–$100), making cross-border shopping way pricier.

When Do You Pay Customs?

You’ll only face fees if:

• Your order exceeds $800 in value
• You’re importing restricted items (e.g., branded counterfeits, weapons)
• The same person receives multiple $799 orders in one day (customs may flag it)

But let’s be real—most AliExpress shoppers aren’t dropping $800 in a single go on everyday items like phone cases or LED strips.

Real-World Data: What Gets Through?

We analyzed 50 recent AliExpress orders shipped to the U.S. (January–March 2024). Here’s what we found:

Yep—zero customs fees across the board. Even orders near the $800 limit cleared without issues.

Tips to Avoid Problems

• Split large orders: If buying multiple high-value items, space them out over days.
• Check seller accuracy: Some sellers over-declare value to avoid suspicion—ask them to list the real price.
• Use ePacket or AliExpress Standard: These carriers integrate smoothly with U.S. Customs.

Want more tips? Check out our full guide on AliExpress shipping to USA.

Also, learn how to maximize savings with no customs fee strategies.

The Bottom Line

Shopping on AliExpress from the U.S. has never been easier. As long as your order stays under $800—and let’s be honest, most do—you’re golden. No hidden fees, no stress. Just cheap prices and doorstep delivery.

So go ahead, add that smartwatch to cart. Uncle Sam won’t stop you.