How New Tariffs Could Impact Equipment Costs, and What That Means for Small Business Owners

With changing import fees and global pricing shifts, here’s what small business owners need to know, and how equipment financing can help keep things moving.

If you’ve been watching the headlines, you’ve probably heard about the new tariffs rolling out this year and are wondering how the tariffs will impact small businesses. Designed to protect U.S. manufacturing, these changes affect a wide range of imported goods for large and small businesses, including steel, aluminum, and equipment components. 

But what does that mean for your small business, and more specifically, for equipment dealers and buyers?

Let’s break it down.

What’s Changing?

So, how will tariffs impact small businesses? New tariffs, especially those aimed at goods from countries like China, are raising the cost of imported parts and finished machinery. For industries like landscaping, construction, fabrication, and auto repair—where much of the equipment includes foreign-made components—this could mean noticeable price increases over the next few months.

Some manufacturers may pass those costs on to buyers. Others might slow production while they reassess their supply chains. Either way, the result is higher prices and longer wait times for the people who need equipment to get the job done.

Rising Prices Create New Pressure

Picture this: a mower that cost $9,500 last year might now be priced at $10,200. That small increase can make a big difference for a business owner trying to manage tight margins or outfit an entire crew. For many entrepreneurs, it’s the difference between expanding this season or putting their growth plans on hold.

And when your business depends on timing, waiting usually isn’t an option.

How Equipment Financing Helps

That’s where equipment financing comes in. Instead of paying thousands up front, small business owners can spread the cost over time and preserve their cash flow for other expenses.

Clicklease makes that process simple. We offer:

• Instant decisions
• Simple terms
• No hard credit pulls
• Lease amounts from $500 to $25,000

Even if equipment prices rise due to small business tariffs, your customers can still get what they need today and pay as they go.

A Smart Move for Dealers

If you’re a dealer, these price increases might feel like a challenge, but they’re also a chance to stand out. Dealers who offer fast, easy financing help their customers avoid sticker shock and keep business moving.

When others say, “You’ll have to wait,” you can say, “You can take it home today.”

The Bottom Line

Tariffs may shift the landscape, but they don’t have to stop progress or have a large economic impact on your small business. Small business owners are problem-solvers, and with the right tools, they can keep building, mowing, welding, and growing, no matter what changes come their way—small business owners are used to facing challenges and can pivot where needed.

Want to help your customers stay equipped and ready, even as prices shift?
Become a Clicklease dealer today