It's no secret that President Trumps current economic policies, including tariffs, have impacted the economy. It's only a matter of time (if they haven't already been affected) before compressor manufacturers start to feel the effects of the tariffs, one way or another.
Are there tariffs currently on compressors made outside of the U.S.?
Well, it depends. While this could certainly change at any time, currently, there are only tariffs/upcoming tariffs on certain countries (such as Canada, Mexico and China) or products (like steel, automobiles and more).
So, depending on where your compressor is made (i.e. China), it could be subject to tariffs. Most notably, Atlas Copco- arguably the largest compressor manufacturer in the world, has a factory in China. In theory, compressors made at this facility and sold in the U.S. would be subject to a 25% tariff. Even if companies are not headquartered in one of these countries, if the product is manufactured at one of these locations in any capacity, they would be subject to the tariff.
How do I know if the compressor I am looking to buy is subject to tariffs?
If you are looking to buy a compressor in the upcoming months, the easiest determination would be in where the compressor is made. If it is made in countries such as China, Mexico or Canada, then there is likely an associated tariff with that compressor.
Your compressor manufacturer, or your distributor such as A1 Compressor Warehouse, would be best suited to assist you in determining tariff applications for the compressor you are looking at.
What about tariffs on the automotive industry and parts?
In addition to broadline tariffs on certain countries, there are specific tariffs on products such as automobiles and general automotive parts. While it is unclear whether this means that there may be some compressor/compressor components that fall under this tariff, there is a lot of crossover in these types of parts. So, it is possible that compressors/parts would be under the umbrella of this tariff, and be subject to a 25% price increase.
Compressors that are exempt from tariffs??
Well, your options are limited in all honesty. Even if the compressor is manufactured here, there could be elements that are manufactured elsewhere.
The good news is that our goal here at A1 Compressor Warehouse is to find you the most cost effective compressor system for your application. Contact us today for a free quote, and ask about available discounts on tariffed compressors!