FedEx, UPS, and DHL have announced plans to refund customers for tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court, marking the first step in a reimbursement process that could see American consumers recoup fees paid on international shipments. The refunds follow the Supreme Court's decision to overturn several tariffs imposed under the Trump administration.
Refund Process Underway
The U.S. Customs refund portal opened this week, with shipping companies now pursuing claims on behalf of customers. FedEx, UPS, and DHL have confirmed they will automatically issue refunds to consumers who paid these fees, with repayments expected within 60 to 90 days. 'If refunds are issued to FedEx, we will issue refunds for IEEPA tariffs paid to the shippers and consumers who originally bore those charges,' FedEx stated.
Limitations and Fees Remain
However, not all tariffs are eligible for refunds. The Supreme Court's decision only applies to reciprocal tariffs imposed under emergency powers authority, leaving Section 232 tariffs on aluminum and steel products unaffected. Additionally, administrative and brokerage fees charged by shipping companies at the time of importation will not be refunded, as they were deemed 'legal and valid' by UPS. FedEx and DHL have not addressed these fees in their public statements, though lawsuits are pending over additional charges.
The Supreme Court struck down only some of Trump's tariffs, mainly the 'reciprocal' tariffs imposed under an emergency powers authority.
The refunds are currently limited to imports finalized since January 30, 2023, with no timeline yet for repayments on earlier payments. Customers who handled their own Customs paperwork will need to file claims directly through the U.S. Customs refund portal.