What U.S. Tariff Changes Mean for Music Fans — And What You Should Know

Starting August 29, 2025, the “de minimis” exemption—the U.S. policy that previously allowed low-value shipments to enter the country without paying customs duties—is set to disappear. That means even modestly priced orders of physical music goods may now face tariffs. 

What’s Exempt—and What’s Not?

• Still exempt: Music media such as vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, plus books, magazines, and sheet music—basically, most “informational media.” 
• Subject to tariffs: Soft goods like T-shirts, tote bags, hoodies, and other apparel items are no longer exempt. 

Why It Matters for You

1. Physical music media stays duty-free, which means your vinyl or CD purchases won’t come with extra tariffs—but that's only part of the picture.
2. Merch orders with soft goods may now incur extra costs, unless sellers account for it in shipping or customs forms.
3. Transparency is key: Describing what's included in an order and using accurate HS codes can help reduce confusion and prevent delivery refusals. 

What You Can Do as a Fan

• Check your order descriptions: See if tariffs may apply—especially if your purchase includes apparel or similar items.
• Look for “Delivered Duty Paid” (DDP) shipping: That means all tariffs are covered by the seller upfront—no unexpected fees when your package arrives. Watch for shipping restrictions: Some sellers may restrict or temporarily pause shipping to the U.S. to avoid complications. 

Broader Context for Music Fans

News from across the music industry shows that tariffs are affecting more than just shipping:

• Musical instruments, especially beginner gear imported from China, are becoming more expensive for music stores and families—raising barriers for new musicians. 
• Major brands like Fender, Gibson, Taylor, and Martin, supported by NAMM, have met with government officials to push back against steep duties—warning they could harm both the industry’s competitiveness and music’s cultural value. 

Summary Table

Final Take

For record buyers, here's your bottom line:

• Your records remain tariff-free—good news!
• Apparel may get pricier due to fees—confirmed by sellers or included in DDP shipping is best.
• Transparency and communication matter—both for you and the sellers.
• Tariffs ripple across the music world, from merch to instruments, so staying informed benefits everyone.

Author Credit: Ron Allen