By: Dipin Sehdev

Music collectors and physical media enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief: for now, vinyl records, CDs, and even cassettes remain untouched by the recent wave of U.S. import tariffs. The move comes after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that physical music formats are classified as “information materials,” placing them outside the scope of the trade restrictions that took effect last week.

The exemption, while a relief for collectors and independent retailers, does not eliminate all complications for international shipments. The evolving tariff landscape and shifting postal regulations could still create headaches for consumers and businesses alike.

Why Physical Music Formats Are Exempt

According to the United States’ Harmonized Tariff Schedule, items such as “publications, films, posters, phonograph records, photographs, microfilms, microfiche, tapes, compact disks, CD ROMs, artworks, and news wire feeds” fall under the category of “information materials.” This classification, reinforced under 50 U.S.C. § 1702(b), exempts certain informational materials from trade restrictions and duty, effectively shielding physical music formats from the tariffs currently affecting other imported goods.

CBP has reiterated that “music and informational media have always been exempt from tariffs and continue to be so at this time.” This protection ensures that record collectors and music retailers are, for now, insulated from the import taxes that now apply to an estimated 1.36 billion previously duty-free packages entering the U.S. each year.

Navigating Shipping Challenges

While the exemption is clear, practical hurdles remain. Over 30 countries have imposed restrictions on parcel shipments to the U.S. in response to the Trump administration’s new tariff regulations. Some international sellers may be unaware of the exemptions for physical media or unsure how to implement them, leading to confusion at customs checkpoints.

To help navigate the complexities, online marketplaces like Discogs and Bandcamp have created detailed guidance for sellers and buyers. Discogs advises labeling items accurately as “Informational Materials: phonograph (vinyl) record” rather than simply “vinyl” to ensure customs recognizes the exemption. Bandcamp, which also sells apparel and soft goods, has added features that allow artists to restrict shipping to the U.S., minimizing potential customs complications. Both platforms emphasize the importance of using correct Harmonized System (HS) codes when filling out shipment forms.

Despite these safeguards, CBP and postal carriers may handle exemptions inconsistently, creating the possibility of delays or additional administrative steps. DHL Express Americas’ CEO Andrew Williams confirmed that shippers are now facing “increased costs, complexity, and the need to adapt shipping setups to comply with new customs requirements,” with longer processing times likely for lower-value goods.

The Context: De Minimis Rule Changes

The exemption for physical music formats comes amid broader changes to U.S. trade policy. In July, President Trump signed an executive order suspending the duty-free “de minimis” treatment for all countries, which had allowed packages valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. without taxes or tariffs. The $800 threshold, raised from $200 in 2016, had become a significant pipeline for criminal shipments.

CBP data show that low-value shipments surged from 134 million in 2015 to 1.36 billion in 2024, accounting for 98% of narcotics seizures by case count and 97% of counterfeit goods confiscated. The Trump administration cited these statistics in justifying the policy changes, which took effect on August 29, 2025.

Even with de minimis protections suspended, physical music formats remain shielded under the “information materials” classification. This ensures collectors and independent sellers continue to avoid the tariffs currently affecting countless other imported products.

Impact on the Music Market

The exemption is particularly timely given the ongoing resurgence of vinyl. According to the RIAA’s 2024 year-end report, U.S. vinyl sales rose for an 18th consecutive year, generating $1.4 billion — the highest total since 1984. Vinyl accounted for nearly three-quarters of all physical music revenue in 2024, with 44 million units sold compared to 33 million CDs. CD revenues also saw a modest 1% increase, reaching $541 million, while total physical format revenue climbed 5% year-over-year to $2 billion.

For collectors, record stores, and small businesses, the exemption helps avoid a potential surge in costs that could have affected pricing, margins, and demand. Still, the broader shipping landscape remains in flux, with some postal services — including Swiss Post, Japan Post, Australia Post, India Post, New Zealand Post, and the U.K. postal service — temporarily halting shipments to the U.S. DHL Germany also suspended U.S.-bound shipments as of August 25, 2025.

Legal Challenges and Ongoing Uncertainty

The exemption comes amid ongoing legal challenges to the Trump administration’s trade policies. On the same day the new tariffs took effect, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled against Trump’s declaration of national emergencies underpinning certain tariff measures. Trump responded on Truth Social, arguing that removing tariffs would “make us financially weak,” framing the policy as essential for national economic security.

Meanwhile, analysts at TD Cowen have noted that digital music remains unaffected by tariffs, with subscription-based streaming services from Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, and Spotify largely insulated from changes in physical import policies. Digital revenue, which constitutes the majority of income for major music companies, is unlikely to see significant churn even in an economic downturn.

For Now, Vinyl and CDs Are Safe

For collectors and retailers, the message is clear: physical music formats like vinyl records, CDs, and cassettes are exempt from the new U.S. tariffs — for now. Accurate labeling, adherence to Harmonized System codes, and awareness of shipping restrictions will help ensure that items continue to reach buyers without unexpected fees.

However, the situation remains dynamic. Legal rulings, executive decisions, and international postal policies could alter the landscape at any time. Music buyers and sellers should stay informed and prepared to adapt to ensure their vinyl, CDs, and cassettes continue to flow across borders without disruption.

In a time of heightened tariff scrutiny and international shipping uncertainty, the exemption for physical music is a rare win — a small pocket of stability for collectors, independent sellers, and the resurgent vinyl market.