The Maker's Guide to 2025 Tariffs (Made Simple)

April 8, 2025
By: John & Marc | MakerFlo Founders

 

What’s Going On?

New rules are changing how imported goods are taxed—and prices are starting to rise.

 

What Can You Expect From MakerFlo?

At MakerFlo, we remain committed to providing our customers with transparency and information about these upcoming changes to minimize impact to you. If you run a business that relies on laser engraving, sublimation, or resin, this guide will help you understand what's happening, what to expect, and how to protect your business.

We’re closely monitoring ongoing tariff negotiations. Due to newly implemented tariffs exceeding 100% on goods from China, we will be adjusting the majority of our prices starting in May. We’re hopeful that these negotiations lead to a reduction in tariffs, which could help minimize the upcoming price increase. Our goal is to keep our prices as fair and affordable as possible, and we’ll continue to keep you updated as we learn more. Subscribe here to get alerts on upcoming news.

 

What Are Tariffs and How Do They Affect Prices?

Tariffs are taxes imposed on products imported into the U.S. from other countries. When the U.S. places a tariff on goods from a country like China, importers—such as MakerFlo—must pay that tax to the U.S. government when bringing products in.

This tariff adds to the overall cost of the imported goods. Since it's an extra expense for MakerFlo, it gets factored into the final price to you, the customer, leading to higher prices.

For example:
If MakerFlo purchases a tumbler from a Chinese factory for $10 and a 30% tariff imposed by the U.S. government, the cost rises to $13 before even accounting for shipping costs. So instead of pricing the product based on a $10 cost, we now have to start from a $13 base—significantly increasing the final price.

 

What is The Difference Between a Tax and a Tariff?

A tax is a fee on income or purchases made within a country (like the U.S.), while a tariff is a tax placed specifically on goods imported from other countries. They serve the same basic purpose—charging a fee that goes to the government—but the term "tariff" is used to indicate that the charge applies to international goods, not domestic ones.

You can qualify for a state sales tax exemption on future MakerFlo purchases by filing a valid copy of your resale certificate. Learn more and apply here.  

 

What Is the De Minimis Rule?

Here’s what you need to know if you currently shop from Temu, AliExpress, Amazon, direct from China or through a Chinese supplier on Facebook. The U.S. government is removing the de minimis exemption for products shipped from China and Hong Kong. This means that 

1. 1. Any item, even under $800, can now be taxed
      
      
   2. Shipments may face up to a 30% tariff or flat fees (typically $25–$50, but please check this actively as it's changing day to day!)
      
      
   3. Fees may be charged to the recipient (consumer) upon or after delivery by USPS, UPS, DHL, or FedEx, or other carrier
      
      
   4. Shipping delays may occur more often, as these packages will now be reviewed at customs
      

⛔️ What The Elimination of the De Minimis Rule Means for Makers: The elimination of the de minimis rule makes purchasing directly from overseas suppliers lke Temu, AliExpress, Amazon, direct from China or through a Chinese supplier on Facebook higher risk. Packages will be subject to additional fees or taxes, delays in delivery due to customs, with little to no protection for US consumers for support, replacements or refunds.

What to watch for:

• • International suppliers or sellers on US marketplaces may not be obligated to inform consumers about additional fees on shipments due to the elimination of de minimis and new fees based on tariffs
    
    
  • No support or replacements if products arrive damaged (If they send another package you will incur more tariffs, makes replacements very expensive)
    
    
  • No refunds, only reorders! Be cautious when dealing with Chinese suppliers, as getting refunds can be extremely difficult. They will not reimburse any tariffs if there's an issue, which means your losses could end up being even more costly.

Relying on these modes of purchasing might seem cheaper today, but with the exemption removed, can cost you more in the long run—especially for your time and your reputation.

 

Our Commitment to Our Customers

At MakerFlo, we do the hard work of importing so you don’t have to worry about surprise costs, delays, or quality issues. As the tariff increases brings on tumultuous times for everyone, we will continue to offer our customers the following

• • No surprise taxes
    

  • Consistent pricing you can count on
    

  • High quality products tested for engraving, sublimation, and resin
    

  • Our Arizona based team is ready available to support your business
    

  • Bulk discounts on bundles and case packs
    

  • Investments into U.S.-based suppliers to help maintain stable pricing
    

We’re not just a supplier—we’re your partner in business.

 

What You Can Do (Without Panicking)

Change is part of running a business. What matters most is how you respond. Here are three simple steps to help you stay profitable and in control:

Know Your Costs

• • Update your prices using this formula  (Materials + Labor + Overhead) × Markup = Retail Price
    
    
  • Make sure you account for recent increases in supply costs

 

Communicate Price Changes Clearly

Don’t apologize for raising prices—own your value. Use phrases like:

• • "We've updated our pricing to reflect changes in supplier and import costs. Thank you for supporting small businesses"
    
    
  • "Due to recent U.S. tariff changes, new pricing will go into effect on [date]."

 

Handle Objections with Confidence

• • If customers ask, “Why did the price go up?”  You can respond: “Our material costs have increased due to new tariffs. I always aim to keep pricing fair while delivering great quality.”
    
    
  • If they ask for a discount: “I occasionally offer bundle deals, but my prices reflect the care, time, and quality I put into every product.”

 

How Different Makers Are Affected

Laser Engraving

• • Leatherette, wood, and coated metals may increase in cost
    

  • Focus on high-margin, high-impact items like custom gifts and layered signs
    

  • Try to acquire more B2B (Business-to-Business) wholesale orders
    
    

Sublimation

• • Tumblers, mugs, and coated blanks may see price hikes
    

  • Create bundles or limited editions to raise perceived value
    

  • Explain to customers how your work is made-to-order and personalized
    
    

Resin Art

• • Epoxies, glitters, and imported additives may be more expensive or delayed
    

  • Focus on high-value items like jewelry or coasters
    

  • Add upsell options such as name charms or custom colors

 

Tips to Keep Your Business Strong

• • Avoid locking in customer pricing for more than 30–60 days
    

  • Refocus on your bestsellers and eliminate low-margin products
    

  • Promote your story and values—customers love knowing who they're supporting

  • Increase order value with gift packaging, custom tags, or matching accessories
    

 

Are Digital File Purchases Affected by Tariffs?

No, digital file purchases are not affected by tariffs because they are not physical goods crossing a border.

 

What if you Sell Products Abroad?

If you're in the United States and selling products to customers in other countries, here's how tariffs might affect you:

Tariffs Are Charged by the Importing Country

Tariffs are applied by the country receiving the goods, not the one shipping them. So if you ship a product from the U.S. to, say, Canada or the UK, those countries may charge your customer a tariff, customs duty, or import tax when the package arrives.

Who Pays the Tariff?

Usually, the buyer (your customer) is responsible for paying any import duties or taxes when the product reaches their country.

What You Should Do as a Seller

• • Be transparent: Let international customers know they may have to pay customs fees or taxes upon delivery.
    

  • Include a note at checkout or in your shipping policy like:
    “International orders may be subject to customs duties or import taxes charged by the destination country. These fees are the responsibility of the buyer.”

 

Final Thoughts

This season of change is an opportunity to improve your pricing, refine your product offerings, and grow a stronger brand. The most successful businesses aren’t always the cheapest—they’re the most trusted.

You’ve already built something amazing. Now it’s time to grow smarter.

We’re here to help.

 

Marc & John | MakerFlo Founders

Stay Creative. 
Stay Profitable.
Stay Powerful.