FedEx Error Triggers $802 Bill on $30 Canadian Barbie
FedEx invoiced $802 for a $30 Barbie shipped from Canada after misclassifying the package value and applying a 35% import tariff plus brokerage fees. The incident follows the August 29, 2025 elimination of the $800 de minimis exemption, exposing low-value Canadian imports to full duties and customs charges.
1. Customer Charged Excessive Invoice
Bonnie O’Connell ordered a $30 Barbie wearing a PWHL jersey from Canada and received an $802 FedEx invoice after clerical misvaluation and application of a 35% Canada duty plus brokerage fees, prompting FedEx to later waive the charges.
2. Elimination of De Minimis Exemption
Since August 29, 2025, the U.S. removed the de minimis threshold for all imports, meaning even items under $800 now face full tariffs and mandatory customs processing, eliminating previous cost advantages for cross-border shoppers.
3. Tariffs and Brokerage Fee Mechanics
Goods from Canada that don’t comply with USMCA incur a 35% tariff, carriers impose brokerage fees for customs clearance, and misclassification risks can trigger excessive charges that far exceed an item’s purchase price.