As an artist who sells my paintings worldwide, I always try to keep my collectors updated about important changes that may affect international delivery and customs.
Currently, the United States allows duty-free (tax-free) import of goods valued up to $800 under what is called the De Minimis Exemption (Section 321 of the Tariff Act). This rule has been in effect for several years and helped small businesses and independent artists like me sell artworks without additional charges for American buyers.
⚠️ However, according to the new U.S. legislation known as the Trump Tariffs Act (effective August 29, 2025), this exemption is being canceled. Starting from this date, all packages, regardless of their value, will be subject to customs duties and taxes.
For the first six months, U.S. Customs plans to apply fixed tariffs ranging from $80 to $200 per package, or alternatively, standard ad valorem duty rates (a percentage of the value of the item). The exact amount will depend on customs classification and the type of goods being imported
I’m just one artist sending artworks from Ukraine to buyers around the globe. It’s important for me that my clients understand these changes—to be transparent, I include this notice in my shop policies and product pages:
“International buyers, please note: Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. Please check with your country’s customs office before purchasing.”
Suspending duty-free de minimis treatment for all countries – White House Executive Order suspending duty-free de minimis ($800 threshold)
⚠️Previously, original artworks were exempt from customs duties under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA, 50 U.S.C. 1702(b)(3)), which includes an exception for “informational materials,” explicitly listing artworks. In the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS), this is reflected in categories 9701–9705, covering original paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, and antiques.
With the recent removal of duty-free import for packages under $800, it is not yet clear whether artworks will continue to be exempt from new tariffs—this will only be confirmed once a shipment is actually declared and processed through customs.
To ensure exemption, it is crucial that documents clearly describe the item as an original artwork:
“Original painting, oil on canvas, HS code 9701.10.00”
or “Original artwork, hand-painted, unique, HS code 9701”
Terms like “decorative item,” “home decor,” or “poster” may disqualify the shipment from the exemption.
Feel free to explore my collection and find your special piece in my shop! 💛
I understand that the new rules may cause some concern for buyers of my artworks in the USA. However, I want to reassure you: all import duties and taxes for shipping art from Ukraine will be covered by me as the seller. For you as a buyer, the price of the artwork remains clear and final. So even if the new regulation takes effect, you will receive your painting without any extra costs or unexpected charges.
What does this mean for art buyers in the U.S.?
Nothing changes for you — you will still pay only the artwork price and shipping. If any import duties apply, the seller in Ukraine will take care of them.
