From 29 August 2025, the U.S. Government has removed the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed goods valued under $800 to enter the United States without import duty.
As a result, all goods manufactured in the UK and shipped to the U.S.—including fountain pens—are now subject to duty, regardless of their value.
Key Changes
Import Duty: Fountain pens now carry a 10% duty rate.
Duty Applies to Shipping: The 10% is calculated on both the pen and the shipping cost.
Upfront Collection: Duties are collected automatically at checkout, along with:
A small processing fee (currently about 0.5%) to cover the duty system
Occasionally minor clearance or handling charges
Example
For a $200 pen with $25 shipping:
Total dutiable value: $225
Duty: $22.50
With processing included, the amount collected at checkout is around $25
What This Means for Customers
Shipping will continue via Royal Mail
All duties and fees are settled at checkout—no surprise invoices on delivery
The checkout total represents the final amount payable
Our Commitment
While these regulatory changes are outside of our control, we are committed to ensuring the process is transparent, efficient, and fair. By collecting all applicable duties upfront, your orders should move through U.S. Customs smoothly, without delays or unexpected costs.
We value our U.S. customers greatly and remain focused on delivering your pens quickly, securely, and with the least possible inconvenience.