A Step to Streamline Customs and Boost Cross-Border Logistics

India Post has announced the resumption of full international postal services to the United States, marking a major milestone in restoring cross-border connectivity after a prolonged disruption. The new phase of operations introduces an innovative “duty-paid” mechanism, aimed at simplifying customs procedures, reducing delivery delays, and lowering the cost burden on small exporters, online sellers, and individual customers. This initiative aligns with India’s broader logistics modernization strategy under the National Postal Policy 2025, which seeks to integrate postal operations more closely with the global e-commerce ecosystem.

Under the new framework, senders will have the option to pre-pay customs duties and taxes on consignments bound for the U.S. This eliminates the cumbersome post-arrival customs clearance process that often resulted in parcels being held up, delayed, or returned due to unpaid duties. According to The Times of India, this duty-paid model ensures that goods clear U.S. customs faster and reach recipients with fewer procedural hurdles. It is expected to bring significant relief to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in exports through online marketplaces, as well as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) regularly sending parcels home or vice versa.

The resumption covers all categories of international mail, including parcels, commercial samples, and small packets, which had faced partial restrictions over the past few years due to logistical and compliance issues. The reform also comes at a time when India is seeking to diversify its logistics routes and improve its ranking on the Global Logistics Performance Index (LPI). By strengthening the postal channel, India aims to offer a cost-effective and reliable alternative to private courier services for global shipments.

This move is also in line with India’s efforts to enhance its postal infrastructure under the Dak Gati Shakti initiative — an integrated approach to improve postal connectivity and reduce supply chain inefficiencies. The collaboration between India Post, the Department of Revenue, and U.S. Customs authorities will help ensure smoother coordination, particularly in assessing duties and aligning documentation requirements.

However, experts caution that the initiative’s success will depend on effective calibration of duty structures, real-time digital integration with customs systems, and adequate training across postal hubs. Operational readiness — including the availability of automated scanning systems, digital declaration tools, and transparent communication channels with customers — will be crucial for sustaining the new model.

Despite these challenges, the introduction of the duty-paid mechanism marks a progressive step toward trade facilitation and postal modernization. It reflects India’s growing emphasis on building a seamless, technology-driven logistics ecosystem that supports small traders and enhances customer experience. By resuming full postal ties with the U.S., India not only restores a key international delivery route but also reinforces its commitment to efficient, transparent, and inclusive cross-border trade. This reform is expected to strengthen trust in India Post as a global logistics partner and bolster India’s position in the expanding world of digital commerce.