SingPost Unveils Cost-Effective U.S. Shipping for Retail Customers

Singapore Post Limited (SingPost) has announced the launch of its new service, Speedpost Direct International (Retail), designed to facilitate affordable shipping to the United States for retail customers. This service will become available on September 15, 2025, in response to significant changes in U.S. import regulations, which have eliminated the de minimis exemption previously enjoyed by many international shipments.

The Speedpost Direct International (Retail) service allows customers to send parcels weighing up to 2 kg while ensuring compliance with the latest U.S. customs regulations. Customers will have the option of two standard packaging types—a flat envelope or a box—provided by SingPost at a fixed shipping rate. For those who already have items packaged, SingPost will repackage them to fit the standard dimensions, ensuring that all shipments meet the new compliance requirements.

According to Neo Su Yin, Group Chief Operating Officer of SingPost, the primary advantage of this new offering lies in its transparency. “Our post office staff will assist customers in calculating and collecting all necessary duties and taxes upfront, eliminating the surprise of unexpected fees for the recipient,” said Neo. This approach aims to create a seamless shipping experience for customers from start to finish.

For customers with more varied shipping needs, SingPost encourages the establishment of a corporate account, which provides access to dedicated account managers for assistance with larger or more complex shipments. For parcels exceeding 2 kg or valued above US$100, customers may opt for the premium Speedpost Express International service. This option offers express delivery to the U.S. within 3-6 days, compared to the 8-day delivery window for the standard service.

Understanding the Changes in U.S. Customs Regulations

This service launch comes on the heels of a major shift in U.S. customs policy. On August 29, 2025, the U.S. government suspended the de minimis exemption, which previously allowed most international shipments valued under US$800 to enter the country without incurring duties or taxes. The suspension means that all commercial items are now subject to duties, taxes, and increased scrutiny, a challenge that traditional postal services may struggle to manage effectively.

In light of these changes, SingPost proactively suspended standard postal services for commercial shipments to the U.S., opting instead to offer the Speedpost Direct International service as a compliant and reliable alternative. This decision is aimed at safeguarding customers from potential delays or parcel seizures, ensuring that shipments adhere to the new customs requirements.

About Singapore Post Limited

Founded in 1858, Singapore Post has grown into a leading postal and eCommerce logistics provider in the Asia Pacific region. Its comprehensive portfolio includes national and international postal services, warehousing, fulfillment, international freight forwarding, and last-mile delivery, reaching customers in over 220 global destinations. Headquartered in Singapore, SingPost employs approximately 3,000 individuals and operates in 14 markets worldwide. With a focus on best-in-class integrated logistics solutions, SingPost remains committed to enhancing delivery services for both people and the planet. For more information, visit www.singpost.com.