Avoid the 25% Tariff: Smarter Aluminum Sourcing for U.S. Manufacturers

Since 2018, U.S. manufacturers have faced a 25% tariff on imported aluminum—an added cost that directly impacts margins and competitiveness. For procurement teams managing tight budgets, finding a tariff-free aluminum supplier has become essential to maintaining output without overextending spend.

In this article, we’ll break down how manufacturers are sidestepping the aluminum tariff and what to look for in a cost-effective aluminum supplier—without sacrificing quality or speed.

What Is the Aluminum Tariff and Why Was It Introduced?

The U.S. government enacted a 25% tariff on imported aluminum under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. The goal was to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign sources. While it served its policy purpose, it created a ripple effect for manufacturers who suddenly saw material costs spike—especially those who rely on volume aluminum plate and bar for fabrication, machining, or production runs.

What Does “Tariff-Free Aluminum” Actually Mean?

When we talk about tariff-free aluminum, we’re referring to metal sourced domestically or from recycled materials already inside the U.S. These materials aren’t subject to the 25% import duty, and that’s a key cost-saving advantage for manufacturers.

Companies like Industrial Metal Service specialize in offering tariff-free aluminum that meets industry performance standards but comes in at up to 35% less than traditional supply channels.

Why More Manufacturers Are Making the Switch

1. Cost Control Without Compromising Quality

Avoiding import tariffs can reduce material costs by a significant margin—especially for operations running high-volume aluminum plate or bar. At IMS’s aluminum plate page, you’ll find high-performance aluminum in common grades like 6061, 7075, and Mic-6—without the inflated pricing.

2. Shorter Lead Times = Less Downtime

When you’re not importing metal from overseas, you’re not waiting weeks for a container to clear customs. At IMS, most aluminum orders ship within 1–2 business days, allowing manufacturers to move quickly and maintain production flow.

3. Transparent Sourcing = No Guesswork

You shouldn’t need a team of logistics specialists just to order material. Sourcing from a tariff-free aluminum supplier streamlines procurement, reduces paperwork, and eliminates surprise surcharges.

Real Use Cases: Who Benefits from Tariff-Free Aluminum?

• Machine Shops keeping up with tight turnaround contracts

• OEMs building large assemblies with heavy aluminum plate usage

• Medical Device & Semiconductor Manufacturers requiring precision stock quickly

• Custom Fabricators needing reliable inventory with predictable pricing

All of these industries rely on speed, consistency, and margin control—which makes tariff-free sourcing a competitive advantage, not just a cost-cutting strategy.

What to Look for in a Tariff-Free Aluminum Supplier

Not all aluminum is created equal. When evaluating a supplier, consider the following:

• Do they offer XRF-verified materials? (IMS does.)

• Can you order directly online without a quote? (You can here.)

• Do they ship within 1–2 days? (IMS meets that standard.)

• Are they upfront about where and how their metal is sourced? (Transparency matters.)

 

Start Sourcing Smarter—No Tariff Required

The 25% tariff isn’t going away anytime soon. But you don’t have to absorb that cost. Industrial Metal Service offers tariff-free aluminum that’s high-quality, verified, and ready to ship—no quotes, no delays.

Shop online now, or to learn how your manufacturing team can cut material costs without compromising on speed or performance.