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Leverage PLM Inventory to Avoid Tariff Exposure

Tariffs continue to increase equipment costs and create uncertainty across the supply chain. PLM Fleet helps you stay ahead with readily available refrigerated trailers, flexible fleet solutions, and nationwide support designed to protect your operation from rising costs and extended lead times.

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Why Tariffs Matter

Tariffs can increase equipment costs, extend lead times, and create uncertainty for fleet planning. PLM helps reduce that risk with one of North America’s largest inventories of refrigerated equipment available for immediate deployment.

5% - 25%

Estimated tariff increase on refrigerated trailers
Source: FTR Transportation Intelligence

$6,000+

Potential cost increase per trailer
Source: FTR Transportation Intelligence

60+ Days

Additional lead time due to tariffs & backlog
Source: Industry Reports

100%

Tariff exposure avoided with pre-tariff inventory
Source: PLM Fleet Data

Tariffs

8/25/26

Reuters recently reported that Canada announced retaliatory tariffs on approximately $20 billion of U.S. imports, further escalating trade tensions between the two countries. These retaliatory measures will increase the cost of many U.S. manufactured transportation assets, equipment, components, and related goods entering the Canadian market, forcing Canadian businesses to absorb higher acquisition costs. As a result, many Canadian fleets and transportation companies may delay capital purchases, reduce order volumes, extend equipment replacement cycles, or seek alternative suppliers from countries not subject to the same tariff burden, creating additional uncertainty for fleet investment and lifecycle planning.  Source – Tariffs | Today’s Latest Stories | Reuters

The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued preliminary antidumping duty determinations on van-type trailers and subassemblies imported from Canada and Mexico, finding that certain products were sold in the U.S. at unfairly low prices.  While the investigations confirmed dumping occurred, the preliminary duty rates for most major manufacturers are significantly lower than the 88% to 162% levels originally alleged by the American Trailer Manufacturers Coalition.  Most Canadian producers received a 4.29% duty rate, while major Mexican manufacturers received rates ranging from 3.21% to 10.19%.  Final determinations are expected around December 16, 2026, and the outcome could influence trailer pricing, fleet procurement costs, and supply chain planning across the transportation

Preliminary Affirmative Determinations in the Antidumping Duty Investigations of Van-Type Trailers and Subassemblies Thereof from Canada and Mexico

The June 3rd subsidy ruling was followed by a much more significant preliminary antidumping ruling against China. On June 10, 2026, Commerce announced a preliminary antidumping margin of 130.76% on Chinese van-type trailer imports, which would be added to the countervailing duties already announced, creating an extremely high trade barrier for Chinese built trailers entering the U.S. market. For Mexico, the preliminary subsidy rates were relatively low for the major producers with approximately 1.9% to 1.95%, although some companies received much higher rates due to adverse findings. The larger concern for Mexican manufacturers is the pending antidumping case, which has not yet reached a final determination.  Preliminary Affirmative Determinations in the Antidumping Duty Investigations of Van-Type Trailers and Subassemblies Thereof from the People’s Republic of China

The U.S. Department of Commerce issued a preliminary ruling that China and Mexico unfairly subsidize van trailer production, resulting in proposed countervailing duties of 82.3% to 128.7% on Chinese trailers and approximately 1.9% to 2.0% on Mexican trailers imported into the U.S. The American Trailer Manufacturers Coalition (Great Dane, Stoughton, and Wabash) praised the decision, stating it helps level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers and addresses the impact of government supported foreign trailer exports. These are preliminary duties only, additional antidumping duties are still under review and could significantly increase the final tariff rates when Commerce issues its final determinations later in 2026.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the previous administration’s tariffs could be reinstated by early July, even after the Supreme Court struck down several of the tariff executive order. The administration plans to use Section 301 trade investigations, which have already been upheld in court, as the legal pathway to restore tariffs to prior levels. Bessent said this gives companies greater certainty to plan capital spending, sourcing, and supply chain decisions in the coming months. (source MSN)
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6 to 3 that President Trump exceeded his authority by using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping global tariffs. The decision invalidates most tariffs enacted under IEEPA, with Chief Justice John Roberts writing that the law does not authorize the president to unilaterally impose tariffs of unlimited scope, amount, or duration. While some tariffs imposed under other statutes remain intact, the ruling opens the door for businesses to seek substantial refunds for duties previously paid. (CCJ)

The December two-year high in U.S. trailer orders was partially driven by fleets moving to front‑run potential tariff‑related cost increases, including Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs and uncertainty tied to downstream components and imported equipment. Consequently, manufacturers still remain cautious as they look to manage risk and restraining production until freight fundamentals and fleet profitability show sustained improvement. Bottomline, trailer manufacturers are not ramping up production to meet demand so look for longer lead times when ordering equipment. (FleetOwner)

Tariffs are expected to increase costs by 16 to 18% on dry van and refrigerated trailers, adding significant financial pressure on fleet buyers and dealers.  Due to these projected cost hikes, dealers are hesitant to stock refrigerated trailers, fearing they may be forced to sell at a loss if tariffs are later lifted.  The uncertainty surrounding EPA regulations and tariff policies has led to delayed purchases of refrigerated trailers, potentially creating supply chain shortages when demand resurges.  (Source Commercial Carrier Journal)

Today the Supreme Court is fast-tracking a case in hear arguments that challenges Donald Trump’s use of sweeping global tariffs, which were central to his administration’s economic strategy. The case questions whether Trump overstepped his authority by invoking national security to justify the tariffs without congressional approval. A ruling could significantly impact presidential powers over trade and reshape future economic policy decisions. (Source CNN)

Class 8 truck orders in August fell 14% year-over-year, reflecting ongoing weakness in freight demand and growing cost pressures from newly implemented tariffs. The August 7 tariff hikes have increased costs on vehicles, parts, and key inputs, while uncertainty around Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper adds further risk to fleet investment decisions. As a result, fleets are delaying new purchases, extending truck/trailer lifespans, and incurring higher maintenance costs that are contributing to a sluggish recovery in freight rates and restrained capacity growth. (Source – Commercial Carrier Journal)

The expansion of 50% tariffs on imported steel and aluminum to over 400 product categories—including transportation parts, EV components, and trailer materials—is expected to significantly increase the cost of fleet acquisition for trucking companies. These tariffs will raise prices on key components used in trailer manufacturing and maintenance, such as crossmembers, refrigeration units, and structural reinforcements. As a result, fleets may face higher upfront capital expenditures and ongoing maintenance costs, potentially impacting acquisition cost, asset lifecycle planning, and overall operational margins. (Source – FreightWaves)
The Trump Administration’s August 1st deadline is today with the newly imposed tariffs reaching up to 41% on imports from dozens of countries prompted mixed reactions, with some nations expressing relief after negotiating lower rates, while others missed the deadline and now face steep penalties. The announcement triggered a sharp market response, with U.S. stocks and global benchmarks falling, and the dollar weakening against the yen. Canada was hit with a 35% tariff due to alleged non-cooperation on drug enforcement, while China and Mexico received extensions to continue negotiations. (AP News)

The Trump Administration has finalized a series of trade deals with major U.S. trading partners including the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom just ahead of an August 1 tariff deadline. Countries like Brazil, India, Canada, and Mexico face steep tariff hikes if they fail to reach agreements, with no further extensions planned. Tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports to 50% as of June 2025, is expected to continue on all steel and aluminum that will significantly impact the cost of refrigerated trailers. (USA Today)

The Trump Administration has announced a 30% tariff on imports from the European Union and Mexico, set to take effect on August 1. This move has prompted the EU to consider retaliatory measures if a trade agreement isn’t reached by then. The potential for a trade war has raised concerns among European leaders, who are urging for intensified negotiations to avoid further economic conflict.  The tariffs will raise the cost of imported materials and components used in manufacturing refrigerated trailers, leading to supply chain disruptions and higher production costs.  (Sources – Yahoo Finance)
The Trump Administration will plan to increase tariffs on goods from BRICS countries by 10%, effective August 1st. Additionally, the administration announced a 25% tariff on goods from Japan and South Korea, as part of his ongoing pressure campaign to secure new trade agreements. The move is part of a broader strategy to finalize several trade agreements and address the U.S. trade deficit, with the administration focusing on 18 key trading partners that account for 95% of the deficit. (Reuters & MSN) 
The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has reported that truck and trailer payments have soared, increasing by 8.3% to a record-high of $0.39 per mile. This surge in costs is particularly burdensome for the trucking industry, which is already grappling with a challenging freight market and the impact of tariffs. Despite lower fuel prices, the rise in trailer payments, along with driver benefits costs, has significantly impacted overall operational expenses (Commercial Carrier Journal) 
The Trump administration’s new tariff warning could significantly impact the temperature-controlled industry by increasing the costs for goods, leading to higher operating expenses. Businesses in this sector may face challenges in maintaining competitive pricing and profitability due to the rise in tariffs. With the July 9 deadline looming, the uncertainty surrounding the trade negotiations could disrupt supply chains, affecting the availability and timely delivery of temperature-sensitive products, as tariffs could revert to their original, higher levels if no agreements are reached. (MSN) 

Tariffs on imported steel, aluminum, and parts are driving up costs for fleet operators, leading them to reevaluate their sourcing strategies and vehicle acquisition plans. Leasing is a financing option is highlighted as a viable solution to absorb costs and preserve working capital amidst these economic changes. Fleet operators are advised to engage suppliers and remain flexible in their practices to mitigate the impact of tariffs and maintain operational efficiency (Commercial Carrier Journal) 

Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba said after the G7 summit in Canada that Japan and the U.S. have yet to forge a full tariff agreement, with key disagreements still unresolved in particularly over the 25% tariff on Japanese auto imports. The tariffs have already hit Japan’s economy hard, contributing to the country’s first export decline in eight months and dealing a multi‑billion yen blow to automakers like Toyota and Honda. (USA Today & Reuters)
Following two days of talks in London, U.S. and China negotiators reached a framework agreement to restore a Geneva trade truce. This includes China easing export restrictions on rare-earth minerals and magnets, and the U.S. rolling back some of its export curbs on semiconductors and aerospace goods, with both sides calling it a “balanced” exchange. The agreement builds on the Geneva consensus reached earlier (May 12), aiming to suspend punitive tariffs (set around 30% U.S., 10% China) and resolve export control disputes.  The agreement is now pending approval by President Trump and President Xi and have until August 10, 2025 to finalize a comprehensive agreement. (USA Today & Reuters)
The Trump Administration urged a U.S. Appeals Court to uphold tariffs imposed, warning that lifting them could lead to severe economic and national security consequences. Since the tariffs were introduced in April, the government reported raising $68.9 billion in tariff and excise tax revenue during the first five months of 2025, a 78% year-over-year surge that provides a boost to government income. However, this fiscal gain comes with a tradeoff as economic forecasters warn that the tariffs could stoke inflation that would drive up costs for businesses while slowing overall growth.  (Yahoo Finance & NPR)
President Trump implemented a sharp increase in steel and aluminum tariffs from 25% to 50%. This is expected to significantly increase production costs for U.S. manufacturers of transportation equipment. The tariff shock is disrupting supply chains, prompting companies to reassess sourcing strategies and hinder long-term investment planning. (AP News)

A U.S. federal court has blocked former President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs, ruling that he exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The court determined that the economic concerns cited did not meet the legal threshold of a national emergency, thereby invalidating the tariffs. In response, the Trump administration plans to appeal the decision and is exploring alternative legal avenues, such as invoking Sections 212, 301, or 122 of various trade laws, to reinstate similar tariffs. (Politico)

Although tariffs have increased costs and dampened freight demand in the U.S. trucking industry, there are also signs of potential recovery. For instance, a 90-day reduction in tariffs between the U.S. and China has led to a 50% week-over-week increase in U.S.-China bookings, suggesting a possible boost in freight volumes during the back-to-school season.  Additionally, the U.S. trucking sector, which has been facing a nearly three-year-long slowdown exacerbated by tariffs, may benefit from importers accelerating shipments ahead of peak shopping periods.  (FleetOwner)
The 90 day U.S. / China tariff truce is expected to trigger a surge in shipping volumes as importers rush to take advantage of reduced tariffs, causing freight rates and especially for ocean and trucking to rise sharply. This sudden increase in demand will strain transportation capacity and infrastructure, leading to logistical challenges, particularly for smaller shippers who may be deprioritized. Larger importers will benefit most from this window, while companies are urged to act quickly to avoid delays and higher costs amid tightening freight markets.  (Freightwaves)
Tariffs have recently spurred short-term job growth in commercial trucking, with the sector adding 1,400 jobs in April 2025, marking the fourth increase in six months and totaling 10,000 new positions since October 2024. This uptick is largely attributed to businesses engaging in “proactive safety stocking,” accelerating inventory shipments. However, experts caution that this surge may be temporary, as ongoing trade uncertainties from the tariffs could reverse these gains and negatively impact the commercial trucking industry. (Commercial Carrier Journal)
Tariffs have led to a 45% drop in container bookings from China and a one-third decline in vessel arrivals at the Port of Los Angeles, prompting warnings from retailers about potential empty shelves and rising consumer prices.  The trucking industry is experiencing reduced demand as retailers delay shipments and rely on existing inventory, with economists predicting decreased freight volumes and increased operational costs due to higher prices for imported commercial truck and trailer parts.  (ABC News) 
Port of Philadelphia handles 20% of the nation’s food imports of 5.1 billion pounds of fresh fruit in 2023, valued at $3.1 billion. Despite substantial investments in infrastructure, including dredging the Delaware River and expanding cold storage facilities, the port’s growth faces challenges due to U.S. trade tariffs.  U.S. transportation companies may see a decline in freight and logistics activity at the Port of Philadelphia, potentially leading to job losses and reduced revenue in the supply chain sector. (Fresh Plaza)
Following President Trump’s announcement to reduce the 145% tariff on Chinese imports after meetings with CEOs from Walmart, Target, and Home Depot, businesses are cautiously optimistic but remain strategic in their planning. While the tariff reduction offers short-term relief, cold chain companies are maintaining contingency plans to navigate ongoing trade uncertainties and potential retaliatory measures from China.  (Supermarket News)

U.S. financial markets experienced significant volatility following President’s renewed public criticism of Federal Reserve Chair and urged immediate interest rate cuts, despite ongoing inflation concerns. This rhetoric intensified investor anxiety, leading to substantial market declines today. The market’s reaction underscores concerns about the Federal Reserve’s independence and the potential economic implications of the administration’s trade policies. (CNN)

Federal Reserve Chair warned that the President’s tariffs are likely to lead to higher inflation and increased unemployment. His remarks contributed to a significant market downturn, with major indices falling sharply as investors reacted to concerns about potential stagflation.  The tariffs have led to cost increase on refrigerated trailers and is complicating long-term planning for fleets. (CNN)
New tariffs on semiconductors and electronics—especially those sourced from China—could significantly affect refrigerated trailers, which rely on electronic control units (ECUs), temperature monitoring systems, GPS tracking, and other sensor-based tech.  If tariffs increase component costs, manufacturers will raise prices on new trailers and or delay production lines. (Reuters)
The tariffs on Chinese imports, which have increased to 104%, are expected to significantly impact the U.S. economy. The S&P 500 has lost nearly $6 trillion in value since the tariffs were announced, marking the deepest four-day loss since the index’s creation. (AP News)
Tariffs have decreased new equipment orders and increased material costs, harming U.S. manufacturing competitiveness. Trucking demand and capacity is back to pre-COVID levels, while the number of carriers is up 40%. (Fleet Owner)
The tariffs will significantly raise the cost of imported goods, with a universal 10% tariff and additional country-specific tariffs, such as 34% on Chinese imports. This increase in costs is expected to affect importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers, leading to higher prices for everyday food and beverage items. (Forbes)
The new tariffs are expected to significantly increase costs for the food industry, with transportation expenses rising by up to 15%. This increase in costs will likely lead to higher prices for food products, affecting both retailers and consumers. (Fleet Owner)
In February, U.S. trailer orders dropped by 17% from January, totaling just under 18,200 units. This decline reflects a 13% decrease compared to February 2024, highlighting the significant impact of tariff ambiguity on the transportation industry (ACT)
The new tariffs could increase transportation costs by up to 15%, significantly impacting the logistics and trucking sectors. Additionally, these tariffs are expected to cause a 10% rise in operational expenses for transportation companies (AP News) 

Key Impacts of Tariffs

Increased Costs

A refrigerated trailer is 80% steel and aluminum. With tariffs of 25% on these commodities, this will lead to higher production costs that will be passed on.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Tariffs will cause delays and increased lead times for acquiring new trailers and parts as manufacturers continue to evaluate sourcing materials. Disruptions are expected to impact operational expenses by an additional 15%.

Higher Prices

Manufacturers are passing on the increased costs to customers, making new trailers more expensive. It is expected that transportation expenses will rise by 15% to 20% in existing budgets.

Residual Value Risk

Owning trailers means bearing the risk of depreciation. Tariffs will exacerbate this by increasing initial costs and potentially reducing resale value between 25% to 35%.

Benefits of Leasing and Renting

Cost Management

Immediate inventory is available for lease and rental, allowing your organization to mitigate tariff impacts. Leasing or renting refrigerated trailers allows you to avoid the high upfront costs associated with purchasing. This frees up capital for other business needs.

Flexibility

Leasing provides the flexibility to adjust your fleet size based on demand, without long-term commitments. Renting offers even shorter-term solutions for immediate needs with savings of 10% or more on transportation expenses.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Leasing agreements can include maintenance services, transferring the responsibility and cost of upkeep to PLM. Know your cost every month with $0 exposure to the business.

Risk Transfer

By leasing, you transfer the residual value risk to PLM Fleet. This means you don’t have to worry about depreciation or the resale value risk of the trailers in the future.

Access to Latest Technology

Stay updated with the latest trailer technology without the need for frequent capital investments.

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PLM works with customers to evaluate fleet requirements, equipment procurement strategies, replacement timelines, and capacity planning to help reduce the impact of changing market conditions.