Notice for Our U.S. Customers
Hello everyone, this is JY.
As you may already know, starting August 29, the Trump administration’s decision to end the de minimis exemption will take effect. Until now, shipments under $800 were tax-free, but from now on, taxes will be applied.
To be honest, no country was as generous as the U.S. when it came to imports. Canada imposes taxes strictly on imported goods, and so does Europe. Now, the U.S. has also reached the point where even individual consumers (not just businesses) must pay taxes on their imports.
Back in early August, when the sudden announcement came about ending the de minimis rule, I worked very hard to ship out as many products as possible from Korea. Packing was intense, but I’m glad that most shipments should arrive before August 29.
For my U.S. customers—taxes are now a fact we can’t avoid. Even if it feels frustrating, we have to accept it. (Many Thanks Mr. Trump🙃)
With the universal tariff system now in effect, the base duty rate for Korea is 15%, plus additional product-specific duties according to HS codes. For example:
- Photos, books, illustrations, photocards, posters, postcards, binders → 0% item duty
- Acrylic goods, blankets, cups, clothing, etc. → subject to additional duties.
- That’s why you may see information elsewhere saying “15% + @.”
Let me also say this: J&J was practically created for Julzy—my biggest customer, partner, and friend—and her friends. Our motto has always been (and remains) to provide fair prices and services. While we’ll need to test the new customs system in practice after August 29, based on my calculations, group shipping is still the most reasonable option, even with duties.
J&J will continue to use USPS as the main carrier, while working with my Korean logistics partners and U.S. customs agencies to handle the new tax rules.
Right now, not all the details are 100% clear, so I don’t want to cause misunderstandings. But my expectation is: there’s no need to worry too much. Please don’t stress.
Here’s how J&J will proceed with U.S. deliveries:
- Group shipping remains the standard for the U.S.
- After the first shipment from Korea to the U.S., packages will be distributed to each customer domestically. At that stage, you will receive a separate notice of the international shipping cost + duty/taxes + domestic U.S. shipping fee. Taxes will be handled under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), so customers will NOT need to deal with U.S. Customs directly.
- Shipping will be via USPS and my Korean logistics partners. We will not use DHL, FedEx, UPS, or other express couriers, because under the new tariff rules, they will charge additional entry fees—which are quite expensive.
- Perfumes will always be shipped via group shipping, using post office sea freight.
Currently, Korea Post is adjusting its system because of the U.S. changes. That’s why U.S. shipping paused for a bit. J&J will resume U.S. deliveries starting next week, initially through my Korean logistics partners until Korea Post’s system is fully back to normal.
Dear BL lovers (and the occasional straight lovers too, haha 💕),
We can’t avoid these changes. But J&J will do everything possible to find ways to reduce costs so you can continue enjoying your hobby without too much burden.
Thank you always 🙏
With love,
JY