As new tariffs hit a wide range of imported goods, prices on everyday items are climbing fast. Many Americans are buying now to avoid paying more later on a range of products. Retailers are warning of shrinking inventory and rising costs across key categories.
If you’ve been worried about the same and have been delaying upgrading your laptop or stocking up on pantry staples, now may be the right time to reconsider. Here are a few products people are rushing to buy before tariffs make them harder to afford.
Smartphones and Electronics
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Since smartphones and electronics have been on the list, upgrading these items right now might be your best shot. Tariffs on electronics from countries like China are expected to push prices higher across major brands, including everything from smartphones to TVs.
Home Appliances
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That “we’ll get a new dishwasher eventually” moment just got a deadline. Tariffs on raw materials like steel and aluminum are raising the price tags on refrigerators, dryers, and ovens. If your old unit’s on its last leg, now’s the time to act.
Furniture
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If your space needs a refresh, waiting could cost you more than you think. Furniture stores are clearing out inventory before tariffs hit harder. Most couches, bed frames, and dining sets come from overseas, and once those shipments dry up, prices could spike.
Automobiles
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Car prices are moving faster than traffic on the 405. Tariffs on imported vehicles and parts are already raising costs. Some dealers say their most popular models are going up by the week. Buyers looking to upgrade are jumping in before sticker prices climb higher.
Clothing and Footwear
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Your next pair of sneakers might cost more than your last. About 95% of the shoes Americans wear are made overseas. Add new tariffs, and prices on everything from jeans to jackets are inching up.
Food and Beverages
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Other essential items that are taking a hit include snacks and specialty foods. Tariffs are raising prices on everyday favorites like chocolate, coffee, and olive oil. Grocery stores expect some items to sell out or cost a lot more soon.
Building Materials
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You might want to speed it up if you’ve been planning on or are already undergoing renovation. Lumber, steel, and copper are getting more expensive thanks to new tariffs. Builders and DIYers are loading up on materials now. Even small projects like fencing or shelving could cost double if you wait too long.
Auto Parts
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Besides cars, the parts to fix them are getting pricier, too. Items like brake pads, filters, and headlights often come from overseas. Mechanics are seeing costs rise and passing those increases on.
Electronics Accessories
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Electronic accessories, like chargers and earbuds, are mostly made abroad, and tariff hikes are starting to show on the price tag. If you’re someone who always needs a backup on these, grab the extras now!
Baby Products
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New parents already juggle enough. Now, they’re facing higher prices on strollers, car seats, and baby monitors. With tariffs adding to costs, families are buying ahead. It’s one less thing to worry about once prices creep up even more.
Outdoor Equipment
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As the weather warms up, grills, bikes, and patio furniture are flying off shelves. Many of these products are made in Asia; thus, they’re one of the categories that are going to get hit the hardest.
Pet Supplies
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Fido’s favorite kibble might cost more next month. A lot of pet food and accessories are imported, which is already causing shortages in some stores. Food, toys, and grooming gear will all be affected.
Gardening Tools and Supplies
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Green thumbs are feeling the pinch. Pots, soil, watering cans, and even gloves are rising in price. Many gardening supplies come from overseas manufacturers. With tariffs in play, stores expect tighter inventory.
Luxury Goods
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If you love your designer labels, you must prepare yourself to pay more soon. Luxury handbags, watches, and fragrances often come from Europe and Asia. High-end retail is no exception to tariffs.
Sporting Goods
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Gear for sports like golf, skiing, and tennis is getting more expensive. Most of it’s made abroad, and tariffs are hitting hard.
Luggage and Travel Gear
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Luggage and travel gear are flying off shelves as Americans rush to avoid looming tariff hikes. New import duties are pushing prices up by as much as 15%, and brands like Samsonite and Tumi are already raising prices. Shoppers are scrambling to snag suitcases, backpacks, and packing cubes before costs climb higher. If you're planning a trip, now's the time to gear up.
Eyewear and Sunglasses
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Eyewear and sunglasses are now hot-ticket items as Americans rush to buy before rising tariffs send prices soaring. With import duties on Chinese-made glasses reaching up to 155%, well-known brands are already raising the U.S. prices. Retailers warn that frame, lens, and even eyeglass case costs are climbing fast, prompting shoppers to stock up before the next price hike.
