Trump Tariff Policy Shift Sparks Pre-Deadline Sales Rush for Import-Dependent Brands

Direct-to-consumer brands are scrambling to offload inventory before new tariffs take effect. Zou Xou and Girlfriend Collective are among the companies offering steep discounts this week, framing the sales as a final opportunity for customers to avoid impending price hikes.

The urgency stems from President Trump's July decision to eliminate the de minimis exemption, which previously allowed duty-free import of packages valued under $800. Effective Friday, these shipments will now face tariffs ranging from 10% to 50%, with carriers potentially opting for flat fees of $80-$200 per package.

"I just framed it as an opportunity to save before the deadline," said Katherine Theobalds, founder of Argentine leather shoe brand Zou Xou. Her company faces a 10% tariff on shipments from Argentina. The policy change threatens to disrupt supply chains for countless small businesses that relied on the exemption for affordable international shipping.