India Post Parcel Alert! All US-Bound Mail Suspended Due To US Tariffs; Can You Claim a Refund? Know Details

Amid concerns about US tariffs, the Department of Posts has completely suspended the booking of all categories of mail, including letters, documents, and gifts valued up to $100, to the USA, according to a press release issued on Sunday, August 31. Customers who have booked their parcels with the India Post and the item is yet to be dispatched can claim refund for postal charges, announced India Post on X.

The decision was made in continuation with an India Post notice issued on August 22. According to the Department of Posts press release, the current situation of booking mail to the USA is under scrutiny and more information will be released after some clarity.

Why India Post Has Suspended Mails To The USA?

Suspension of all mails and items sent using India Post services to the USA has come due to recent regulatory changes introduced by the US.

"This suspension has become necessary as U.S.-bound carriers have expressed their inability to carry postal shipments in the absence of fully defined mechanisms for duty collection and data exchange, as required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection," stated India Post in a press release.

From 29 August, all goods valued at over $100 will be subject to customs duties in America, with effect from August 29 onwards, reported news agency PTI earlier. USA's 50% tariffs on items from India came into effect on August 27.

While all the postal services to the US have been suspended by the India Post, the Department has clarified that it is closely monitoring the situation and is making every effort to restore services at the earliest.

Can People Claim A Refund?

Yes, people can claim a refund for their parcels and items, but only in certain circumstances. " In case any item that has already been booked and could not bc dispatched, postage refund can be claimed".

How To Claim a Refund?

The India Post has not specified any process for customers to claim a refund for their parcel. But they can contact their nearest India Post office for the same. They can also raise a complaint with the department for a refund. Customers are required to register at the India Post website with their credentials. Once after log in, they can register their complaint.

Customers are required to, register their complaint at the Post Office where the issue occurred and obtain an acknowledgement. If the matter remains unresolved within a reasonable timeframe, escalate it to the next higher authority in the Department.
The Department of Posts outlines its complaint resolution standards in the Citizen Charter. For those preferring online methods, they can lodge complaints and check their status through the Department's website. This digital option offers convenience and efficiency for users seeking updates on their grievances.