Shipping Policy (US)

Shipping Policy for the USA


Update (March 2026)

Due to an exceptional volume of orders, processing times are currently longer than usual. Thank you for your patience and support. 💛


Update (February 21, 2026)

Due to recent changes in U.S. trade policy, we now apply a 10% import-duty surcharge to U.S. orders (previously 15%). This aligns with the temporary 10% U.S. import surcharge announced by the U.S. government.

Shipping Costs

Shipping costs are automatically calculated for each order based on weight and volume and are added during checkout, after entering the delivery address.


Duties, Taxes and other Fees

Starting August 29, 2025, new US import rules mean that all shipments from the EU to the US are now subject to import duties, taxes and customs fees, even small orders. Unfortunately, there is no longer a "de minimis" threshold that allows packages under $800 to enter duty and tax free.

At Molds and Shapes, we believe in transparency and customer-friendly service. That’s why we’ve made some important changes to our shipping process for US customers.

From August 2025 onwards, we will only ship DDP (Delivery Duties Paid) to the USA. This means:

  • All import duties and customs clearance costs are paid by us in advance, on your behalf;
  • Your order is delivered to you without any import charges at your door;
  • No unexpected bills from couriers, CBP or brokerage agents;
  • A smooth, fully prepaid shipping experience, No Surprises and No Hidden Fees.



US Import Duties included through an Order Surcharge

The US currently applies 15% import duty on most EU products, like our molds. This is not a surcharge from us, but a US government-imposed tax on international purchases. To cover these mandatory import duties and processing costs, we add a fixed 15% surcharge based on the net order value (excluding shipping). This surcharge:

  • Covers the actual import duty, customs handling fees and other import charges that we prepay on your behalf;
  • Is clearly shown in your shopping cart and at checkout, included in your total price;
  • Ensures that your parcel is treated as 'Delivery Duties Paid', with no import payment due upon arrival.

We cover the DDP processing fee ourselves, so you won’t be charged anything beyond the actual import duties.


US Sales Tax

While we cover import related duties and fees, some US states may still charge sales tax on your purchase, depending on your local state law. This sales tax is not included in the order surcharge.


Shipping couriers

Until August we used the combo PostNL / USPS for smaller parcels and UPS for larger parcels. However, to keep shipping affordable in this new situation, we will only use PostNL / USPS, for all parcels. We do not use UPS or another commercial courier at this time due to high shipping rates and handling surcharges.


Combining multiple orders in one shipment

Due to stricter US customs regulations, we are currently unable to combine multiple orders into one shipment. Each order must be processed and (digitally) documented separately to ensure smooth import and delivery. We understand this may be less convenient, but it's necessary to comply with the new rules and avoid customs delays.