Tarrifs, Specifically Canada -> USA

I am considering a large (for me) auction bid in the Longley November 2026 auction. In their published terms, there will be a 50% tariff charge on all purchases. I might still bid on the item, but I will adjust my bid for the extra cost.
This will probably kill my chances to win. My previous recollection was that tariffs do not apply to collectable stamps. Am I wrong about that?

You are not wrong. Previously the philatelic collectibles tariff issue was sorted and went away. Now however, there is a flat (so far as I am aware) 50% tariff thus the Longley terms.

To add to Rogd, yes the previous exemption for HS code 9704.00.0000 (among everything else basically) is currently not in place so tariffs apply to postage stamps, including used.

A Canadian auction house I deal with regularly told me the tariff applies to Canadian stamps new or used. At least that is how they are applying it. They even shared that some are still bidding/winning but are deferring shipping temporarily hoping the tariffs will be lifted.

I personally am still bidding on items but have purposely avoided any of their Canadian material.

Hey, great idea. There are some things I am wanting from Canada, but avoiding because of this whole situation. I should reach out and ask them if this is an option, with a no fee or low fee long term storage service.

Also a reminder to anyone ordering from outside the US - you might want to avoid using UPS for shipments to the USA because of UPS's hefty Customs Processing Charges -- even if the item is Duty Free and you owe no tariffs, UPS still charges you for their expertise and convenience for having them manage the customs process for you

If the thought is that in the new year Congress will limit or remove the tariffs it's likely very wishful thinking since:

Congress has the primary constitutional power to set and override tariffs, and it can also pass legislation to limit or terminate executive tariff actions BUT If Congress passes a joint resolution or a bill to block a president's tariffs, the President can veto it. Overriding a presidential veto requires a two-thirds supermajority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Possible but mathematically and historically a real stretch.