Are recent tariff changes leaving you feeling unsure about your next screen printing or promotional items order? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. In this post, I’ll break down the facts, share insights on embroidery and promo goods, and give you a few strategies to stay on budget. Here at Inka’s Screen Printing and Inka’s Promo, we’ve got your back, and we’re committed to helping you find smart, creative ways to keep your brand shining.
Understanding the Tariff Landscape
Tariffs on Canadian Imports
Canada has been a critical supplier for timber and paper, which directly affects costs for items like business cards, flyers, and stickers. With new tariffs, printers may see increased paper prices—potentially leading to slightly higher costs at checkout. The good news? We’re keeping our eyes peeled for solutions to help offset these changes, so you can still get the printed goods you love without breaking the bank.
Mexican Manufacturing Shifts
Over the past few years, Mexico became a popular alternative to China for manufacturing certain promotional items and sublimation prints (think sports uniforms and branded jerseys). However, recent tariff adjustments might prompt some suppliers to pivot back to China or explore other markets. This shift could temporarily raise prices on sublimated uniforms and other specialty apparel, so it pays to be open-minded about brands and sources.
China’s Promotional Goods
Despite a 10% tariff, China remains a key provider of promotional giveaways and promo goods. Thanks to stockpiling efforts, many U.S. distributors still have inventory on hand, often at competitive prices. This means you can keep ordering your go-to promotional items—like pens, tote bags, and other branded merchandise—without major sticker shock, at least for the short term.
How Tariffs Affect Screen Printing & Embroidery
Screen printing and embroidery rely on raw materials like inks, threads, and fabrics—many of which may be subject to tariff-related cost increases. If your business or organization depends on regular reprints of custom T-shirts, hoodies, or hats, it’s wise to factor in slight price fluctuations. But rest assured: we’re always working to find the best deals and top-quality materials for our customers.
Smart Strategies to Adapt and Save
- Stay Flexible with Brands
If your usual apparel brand experiences a significant price hike, consider switching to U.S.-made alternatives like Bay Side or Los Angeles Apparel. While these might have different pricing, they offer standout quality and help you avoid some of the tariff-related cost increases on imported goods. - Leverage Promotional Items
Looking for a cost-effective way to keep your brand top-of-mind? Promotional giveaways—like branded water bottles, stress balls, and tote bags—often come in a variety of price points to fit any budget. These promo goods can still offer a high ROI, even if certain materials face moderate cost changes. - Order Strategically
If you have large orders coming up for screen printing or embroidery, consider ordering sooner rather than later. Early planning could help you lock in current pricing and avoid potential spikes down the line. - Request Expert Guidance
Not sure which route to take? That’s what we’re here for! We’ll walk you through different fabric options, shipping timelines, and budget-friendly substitutes, so you can make an informed decision.
Why Partner with Inka’s Screen Printing and Inka’s Promo?
- Personalized Approach: We understand that every brand is unique. We’ll tailor our recommendations to match your vision—whether it’s for screen printing, embroidery, or promotional items.
- Quality Assurance: You deserve products that are worth the investment. We only source quality apparel and promo goods to ensure your logo and messaging pop.
- Transparency: We’ll always give you the lowdown on any tariff-induced cost changes and work together to find the best workaround for your needs.
Conclusion: We’re Here to Help You Navigate Change
Tariffs don’t have to spell doom and gloom for your marketing budget. By staying flexible, planning ahead, and exploring all the incredible promotional items and screen printing options available, you can keep your brand thriving without sacrificing quality or style.
Have questions? Ready to talk through some fresh ideas for your next order? Contact us at Inka’s Screen Printing today. We’ll help you navigate these tariff changes with confidence—and keep your message front and center where it belongs.
