Important Update for our USA Customers

As of August 29, 2025, the De Minimis rule that allowed duty-free imports under USD 800 into the USA has been removed. This means all products entering the US are now subject to customs clearance and potentially import tariffs.

What does this mean for your Decibelics order?

• Guitar pedals fall under the category of special effects pedals for musical instruments (HTSUS subheading 8543.70.98.20), which carry a general duty rate of 2.6% (source).

• In theory, this should be the only duty charged. FedEx has confirmed that there should be no additional general tariff or flat fee — only the percentage duty. However, until the new system fully stabilizes, there remains the possibility that customs could apply a general tariff (for example, 15% on EU products) or even a fixed per-package fee (USD 80–200). This scenario is unlikely, but the possibility cannot be completely ruled out.

• US Customs may charge a Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) on imports. For a $300 guitar pedal, this is typically USD 31–35. This is a standard government fee (0.3464% of the declared value or minimum $31.67) and applies to all importers.

• On top of this, FedEx (as with any carrier) may apply handling or clearance fees for processing your shipment through customs. These fees are charged directly to the importer (you) and may vary, but are usually in the ballpark of USD 20–40.

What I’m doing to help

To support my valued US customers during this transitional phase:

• I’ll cover all shipping costs from my workshop in Europe to your door. Free shipping via FedEx Express — I assume that cost for you as a thank you for placing an order during this uncertain time.

• You’ll only need to cover import-related charges (customs duties, FedEx clearance/handling fees, MPF, etc.).

Please keep in mind

• Customs duties and related fees are the responsibility of the importer.

• All shipments are declared at their actual invoice value as required by law, to ensure full transparency with US Customs.

• Orders returned because customs fees were refused will not be refunded.

• No refunds will be made on the basis of tariffs or import-related charges.

At Decibelics, I truly value my USA customers — you’ve always been a huge part of this journey. I’ll continue doing everything possible to keep things smooth and, of course, to deliver pedals that are absolutely worth it.

Because once a Golden Horse, Golden Royale, Big Klone, Angry Swede, The Reverend, XX, or Rivus lands on your board, every cent feels like the best investment you ever made in tone.

FAQ – US Orders and Customs

Will I have to pay customs duties?
Yes. Guitar pedals fall under HTSUS 8543.70.98.20 with a duty rate of 2.6%. On a $300 pedal, that’s about $8.

Are there any extra FedEx fees?
Most likely yes. FedEx charges handling/clearance fees for processing imports. These usually range around $20–40 per shipment but may vary if additional paperwork is required.

Is there any other US government fee?
Unlikely, but don’t rule it out. US Customs may apply a Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) on most imports, regardless of duty rate. For a pedal, this is usually USD 31–35.

Could customs apply more than 2.6%?
In theory, only the 2.6% should apply. FedEx confirmed there should be no additional general tariff or flat fee. However, until the system stabilizes, there’s still a chance US customs could apply a higher rate (e.g. 15% for EU products) or a fixed per-package fee (USD 80–200 but the most unlikely scenario).

Who pays these charges?
All import duties, MPF, and FedEx clearance/handling fees are the responsibility of the importer (you). This is standard practice worldwide — our clients in Europe, the UK, Asia, and Oceania already handle customs this way.

What happens if I don’t pay the customs charges?
If customs fees are not paid, the package will be returned. Because this process involves additional shipping, re-entry customs, and payment platform fees, such costs make it impossible to issue a refund. To avoid this and ensure your pedal reaches you quickly and safely, please plan to cover duties and fees when your order arrives.

Update – August 31, 2025

A US appeals court has ruled that the recent broad import tariffs exceeded the scope of executive authority (source). The tariffs remain in effect for now while the case moves to the Supreme Court, but if they’re struck down, importers may be able to get some fees refunded. I’ll keep you posted as things develop!

Update – September 8, 2025

I’ve started shipping a few pedals to the US under the new customs rules to see what comes up in practice. I began with the lighter, lower-priced packages and will move on to the more expensive ones step by step. I’ll be posting updates daily:

Reverend → Shipped Sept 6 → Delivered Sept 8, Awaiting customer’s report on charges
Reverend → Shipped Sept 6 → Delivered Sept 8, Awaiting customer’s report on charges
Angry Swede → Shipped Sept 8 → Delivered Sept 9. Customer reports “No charges from FedEx, no tariffs, just straight delivery” (!!)
Angry Swede → Shipped Sept 8 → Delivered Sept 10, Awaiting customer’s report on charges
Golden Horse → Shipped Sept 9 → Awaiting delivery
Golden Horse → Shipped Sept 9 → Awaiting delivery
Big Klone → Shipped Sept 9 → Delivered Sept 11, Awaiting customer’s report on charges
Golden Royale → Shipped Sept 10 → Delivered Sept 11, Awaiting customer’s report on charges