LTTStore.com, a prominent marketplace under Linus Media Group, recently informed its customers of potential shipment holds due to the imposition of US tariffs. This development affects orders destined for locations outside Canada. As a result of these tariffs, the store has not provided an expected ship date for its products. The situation has left many customers, including those purchasing via Temu and AliExpress, facing significant delays. Some goods have been stuck in customs since February 8, particularly items like costume jewelry, handbags, and phone accessories.
The current issues trace back to the 10% tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump on imported goods from China. These tariffs now cover goods previously exempt due to their value being under $800. Several users on the LinusTechTips Reddit page have shared their experiences; while some received their orders, many others are still waiting. The US Postal Service temporarily halted deliveries from China to align with the new regulations.
Cynthia Mulcahy, a Dallas-based artist, experienced firsthand the impact of these tariffs. Her order of hibiscus seeds was delayed significantly, arriving only on February 12 after being held at a port for several days. The delay forced Mulcahy to reconsider her future purchases from China.
“I thought, wow, this really is caught up with these tariffs,” – Cynthia Mulcahy
Garrett Rassulo from Mulberry, Massachusetts, also faced customs delays with his AliExpress order. His shipment, which included a flashlight, screwdriver set, and car accessories, remained in customs processing from February 6 until he received an update on February 17. Rassulo expressed concern over future purchases due to potential cost increases.
“I better order these now, or I’m not going to be able to order them because they’ll be too expensive,” – Garrett Rassulo
Sellers have communicated with customers about the delays. An AliExpress seller informed a customer that the delay was due to the recipient's country's policies, as the package had already arrived there.
“We’re sorry but that’s on your country’s end; it already arrived there.” – AliExpress seller
The implications of these tariffs are far-reaching. Sharon Fowler highlighted concerns over how the de minimis threshold under $800 would affect her purchasing habits.
“The problem is the de minimis under $800” and how it would impact “every little thing” she orders. – Sharon Fowler
FedEx also issued statements explaining the delays as adjustments were made to comply with new tariff requirements.
“the US President announced the imposition of tariffs on international goods, revoking the previous tariff-free policy. This led to temporary delays as FedEx worked to prepare the required documentation,” – Yiume (via email)
The situation has affected customer service response times at LTTStore.com due to increased demand.
“due to significant demand brought on by recent & evolving changes to US tariffs, customer support reply times from our human agents are currently delayed.” – LTTStore.com
Temu informed customers of a 12-day delay in package delivery and compensation due to changes in customs policy.
“due to customs policy changes, the delivery of your package and delay compensation will be postponed by 12 days.” – Temu
Looking ahead, White House officials have indicated plans to impose reciprocal taxes beginning April 2. Moreover, a 25% tariff on all goods from Mexico and Canada could be enacted as early as March 4. These measures could further complicate international trade and impact delivery timelines.