New customs rules for meds in 2026 make international medication orders trickier. Starting August 2025, the US eliminated the $800 duty-free threshold, meaning even small packages face new duties and paperwork. This guide breaks down exactly how to navigate these changes safely and legally.
Understanding Country-Specific Rules
Every country has its own rules for importing medications. In the US, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) The US agency responsible for enforcing customs laws and regulations, including those affecting international mail-order shipments. now requires duties on nearly all shipments. Only private gifts under $100 remain duty-free. For Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Australia's regulatory body for medicines and medical devices, which sets import rules for personal use. allows a 3-month supply of prescription medicine with a valid prescription. Always check your country’s specific rules before ordering.
Verifying Legitimate Pharmacies
Fake pharmacies selling counterfeit drugs are a major risk. To stay safe, verify the pharmacy’s legitimacy. In the US, look for the VIPPS seal (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites) from the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. Australia requires TGA-approved suppliers. Check for a physical address and contact information. A legitimate pharmacy will always require a prescription for prescription drugs. Avoid sites that sell medications without a prescription or offer "miracle cures."
Navigating Customs Requirements
Customs paperwork is now more critical than ever. For US shipments, you need a six-digit Harmonized System (HS) codes A standardized numerical code used to classify products for customs purposes, required for all commercial shipments since September 2025. for each item. The Commercial Invoice A document detailing the transaction between buyer and seller, required for customs clearance with accurate product descriptions and values. must list each item’s exact description, quantity, and value. Incorrect HS codes can lead to higher duties. For example, a shipment of insulin might fall under HS code 3004.90, but using the wrong code could trigger a 300% duty increase. Australia’s Australian Border Force (ABF) The agency responsible for enforcing border laws, including customs and immigration, which handles medication imports in Australia. requires a copy of your prescription and limits imports to a 3-month supply.
Essential Documentation
Missing paperwork is a top reason for shipments being seized. Always include: a detailed commercial invoice with product descriptions (no vague terms like "gift" or "sample"), a packing list matching the invoice, and a copy of your prescription. For US shipments over $2,500, you’ll need an Automated Export System (AES) filing. DHL Express A global express delivery service that handles customs clearance automatically for commercial shipments. handles customs clearance automatically for express shipments, but standard postal services like USPS now require you to manage this yourself. In Australia, the ABF may ask for proof of prescription, so keep a digital copy handy.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Many people lose shipments due to simple errors. Shipping prohibited drugs like opioids without permits will get your package seized. Using incorrect HS codes can double your duties-always verify codes via the USITC tariff database. Never declare items as "gifts" to avoid duties; customs officials check these closely. Also, be aware that some countries ban certain medications. For example, Australia prohibits codeine without a prescription, while the US has strict rules on controlled substances. If you’re unsure, contact your country’s customs agency before ordering.
Alternatives to International Mail-Order
If international mail-order seems too risky, consider alternatives. Patient assistance programs from drug manufacturers often offer discounts. Many US pharmacies like GoodRx provide price comparisons for local purchases. In Australia, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidizes medications. Some local pharmacies also offer discount programs for generic drugs. These options can save money without the legal risks of international shipping.
What happens if my medication shipment is seized?
If customs seizes your shipment, you’ll receive a notice explaining why. For US shipments, contact the CBP office handling your case. For Australia, contact the Australian Border Force. You may need to provide additional documentation or pay duties to release the shipment. If the medication is prohibited, it will be destroyed.
How do I find the correct HS code for my medication?
Use the US International Trade Commission’s online tariff database or Australia’s TARIC database. Enter the medication’s name and description. For example, insulin falls under HS code 3004.90. If unsure, ask the pharmacy for the code-they’re required to provide it on commercial invoices. Incorrect codes can lead to higher duties or seizures.
Can I order prescription medications without a prescription?
No. Legitimate pharmacies require a valid prescription for prescription drugs. Ordering without one is illegal in most countries and risks seizures or criminal charges. In the US, the FDA prohibits importing prescription drugs without a prescription. Australia’s TGA also requires prescriptions for all prescription medications. Always have a doctor’s approval before ordering.
Is it safe to use international pharmacies?
Only if they’re verified. Check for official licenses (like VIPPS in the US or TGA approval in Australia), physical addresses, and contact information. Avoid sites with no prescription requirement, suspiciously low prices, or poor reviews. Counterfeit drugs from unverified pharmacies can be dangerous-up to 50% of online medications are fake, according to WHO data.
What are the penalties for incorrect customs declarations?
In the US, incorrect declarations can trigger fines up to $100,000 per violation under 19 C.F.R. § 113.62. Australia’s ABF can impose fines or criminal charges for false declarations. Customs officials also track repeat offenders-multiple errors can lead to permanent shipment bans. Always double-check paperwork before shipping.
Why did the US eliminate the $800 duty-free threshold?
The change, part of Executive Order 14324 signed in July 2025, aims to level the playing field for domestic manufacturers. Previously, 97% of US-bound international packages avoided duties. Now, the CBP requires duties on most shipments to protect US jobs and tax revenue. This shift affects all countries equally, with only private gifts under $100 remaining exempt.
