How US Tariff Changes Are Hurting Fandoms
Collectors of imported goods are being forced to swallow a bitter pill. While scrolling social media late one night, I saw a post: “Had someone cancel a $1,000 order on eBay today due to a ‘tariff tax.’ Is that a thing now?” (image posted below). Curious, I checked the responses and did further research. From Cbc.ca, an executive order from the White House now requires all shipments under $800 to be taxed, effectively killing the de minimis exemption that once allowed low-value imports duty-free. What seems like a simple policy shift could become one of the biggest shakeups fandom collectors have faced in years.
As bad as this is for U.S. buyers, the ripple effects could be worse. If Canada adopts a matching policy, then incoming shipments from the U.S. could be hit too. Thankfully, in-store purchases remain unaffected—but for online shoppers, it feels like being stomped by Godzilla.
In the world of pop culture and collectibles, this changes everything—from comics to stamps, art books to RPG supplements, Blu-rays to exclusive steelbook editions only available by mail order. Nothing is exempt—not even statues big and small (yes, including Funko). The official reasoning cites protecting U.S. manufacturing, curbing drug smuggling, and closing loopholes exploited by drop-shipping giants. But it’s indie creators and dedicated collectors who are caught in the crossfire.
This shift touches every fandom-based hobby. Frequent Etsy buyers and Kickstarter buyers will be hit hardest. Sellers are already unsure how to ship things. Personally, I sometimes receive physical media to review, and suddenly being charged for it feels odd. eBay brings its own issues—some sellers inflate shipping fees to pad profits. Compare the listed shipping cost with the postage label, and it’s often far off.
Labeling packages as gifts no longer bypasses fees—declaring value is still required. Even picking up items in person across the border may not stay a loophole much longer, especially if customs officers are told to tighten enforcement. I dread hearing “this shall not pass (unless you pay up)” at the border as I head to or come home from a US based comic con.
The window to make last-minute purchases—before Canada possibly responds with its own tariffs—is shrinking. And globally, things are shifting too. Countries like China, Japan, and Singapore have massive fan bases and unique product lines. That same article from cbc.com simply noted ordering from them are now pricier. Toy stores with giant, rare Transformers on display often rely on cargo shipping to affordably bring in. That cost advantage may disappear.
As of August 29, 2025, U.S. buyers lose all access to duty-free imports—regardless of origin, even from Canada.
For now, Canadians are in a better spot. Items from the U.S. are still duty-free under $150 CAD when sent by courier. But if Canada mirrors U.S. policy, that benefit could vanish—especially for packages from indie shops, artists, and any crowdfunding campaigns. This affects more than buyers—it puts pressure on small press and indie creators too. I should note that some legal experts are looking into repeal this move some some folks believe the move is illegal, but it won’t stop the act from going into effect.
A Frustrating Experience for Collectors
UPS has been the worst in my experience. Last year, they tried charging me more than the item’s actual value. I refused to touch the parcel, and still they asked for money for an item I never accepted. Only after firmly pushing back by phone did they finally drop it. I’m not alone—Reddit threads, blogs, and even class-action lawsuits point to how excessive their brokerage fees can be.
FedEx, by contrast, has been fairer. A package I did not want from UPS was resent via my choice for courier. It arrived with a fee that was half of what UPS wanted. Still not great—but at least manageable.
Smart Workarounds for Fans and Collectors
But strategy also means knowing which couriers to avoid—and when.
So what can you do? It’s all about knowing the do’s and don’ts. Some services in the United States of America provide addresses in border communities for parcel storage or bundling, allowing you to pick up items during a cross-border trip or have them shipped in bulk. This minimizes repeated customs declarations and saves on shipping. Avoid UPS whenever possible—unless it’s a high-value item and the seller is covering brokerage fees. Only use Worldwide Express or Expedited—those include brokerage. Never choose UPS Standard, which usually leads to surprise fees.
When ordering from indie creators or smaller publishers, ask if they can ship with alternate couriers. USPS is often better, especially since their packages usually transfer to Canada Post, which handles duties more consistently. If you live near the border, consider a P.O. box or cross-border pickup service. For now, tourists are legally able to bring home from $250 to 500 worth of product back home. This will avoid the US tariff problem.
Alternatively, there are other options if the seller will use them. They include the United States Postal Service or if you’re living close to the border, set up a postal box. There are also regional fulfillment centers such as Blackbox, GamesQuest, or VFI–along with other partners that are EU/UK/Cad friendly. But in the end, there’s simply shopping elsewhere! While those orders from afar may take longer, it avoids buying from the countries where tariff and disputes are happening.
Personally, I’ve leaned into 3D printing—both resin and FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)—to make my own unique collectables. It doesn’t help with graphic novels, of course, but it’s my way of pushing back against inflated import costs. I’m also thankful for great second-hand and import operations like Cherry Bomb Toys, Toy Traders, and Ages Three and Up. They often have what I need without the shipping gamble.
As for comics and graphic novels—well, no need to become Comic Book Guy from The Simpsons. Sure, it may feel like we’re in his worst timeline where every import comes with a surprise invoice. But unlike him, we don’t have to grumble alone—we can swap tips, support creators, and push for better solutions together.
TL;DR
- U.S. just killed the $800 duty-free threshold—tariffs hit as of Aug 29.
- Canada might retaliate. Other countries might chime in; buyers beware.
- Avoid UPS, ask for USPS or fulfillment centers.
- Check with indie sellers on shipping methods.
- Bundle orders or use border pickup services.