With ongoing uncertainty around tariffs and global trade shifts, it’s more important than ever to stay agile. Rising costs, longer lead times, and supply chain disruptions are real challenges — but there are practical steps you can take to offset the risks and strengthen your business.
Communicate Early
When addressing tariff-related changes with your customers, the best approach is to communicate early, clearly, and with confidence. Being proactive helps build trust—customers would rather hear from you directly than be surprised by pricing changes or delays. Keep your message straightforward and avoid using complicated trade or logistics terminology. The key is to explain what’s happening without causing alarm.
Let your customers know that while there are global challenges affecting costs or availability, you're actively managing the situation. Share the steps you're taking, such as exploring new suppliers, improving your operations, or adjusting inventory strategies. This gives customers confidence that you're in control.
At the same time, be honest. Acknowledge the issue, but avoid overloading them with unnecessary details. Reinforce that your focus remains on delivering value and maintaining a high standard of service, despite external factors.
Finally, open the door for questions. Offering a clear line of communication shows accountability and lets customers feel heard, especially if they’re unsure about how they may be impacted.
Here's an email you can copy/paste and edit for your own business:
Hi [name],
We’re reaching out to let you know that due to recent global tariff changes, some of our sourcing and shipping costs have increased.
We’re doing everything we can to minimize the impact, including improving our operations and exploring new suppliers. While you may see slight changes in pricing or availability, our commitment to quality and service hasn’t changed.
If you have questions, we’re here to help. Thank you for your continued support and trust.
Sincerely,
Team Acme Inc.
Remember:
- Be proactive, not reactive.
- Keep messaging clear and simple.
- Focus on what you’re doing to adapt.
- Be honest, but don’t overexpose.
- Reinforce your commitment to quality and service.
- Offer channels for questions and feedback.
Now that your customers are aware of the situation and what you're doing about it, here are some ideas of things you can do to survive the storm.
1. Diversify Your Suppliers
Relying on a single country or region, especially one affected by tariffs, creates vulnerability. Sourcing materials or products from multiple countries helps reduce that risk.
2. Review Pricing & Margins
Increased costs can put pressure on your bottom line. Consider using pricing tools, negotiating better supplier terms, or adjusting pricing structures to protect profitability.
3. Improve Inventory & Supply Chain Management
Tariffs may lead to delays or the need to stockpile inventory. Smarter planning or just-in-time (JIT) strategies can help maintain efficiency and reduce overhead.
4. Automate Where Possible
Automation helps offset rising costs. Order processing, customer service, and warehouse operations are all areas where automation can drive savings and scalability.
5. Sell Direct-to-Consumer (D2C)
A D2C model reduces reliance on intermediaries, increases margins, and helps build stronger customer relationships. A branded online store makes this approach feasible.
6. Offer Value-Added Services
Competing on price alone is risky. Custom packaging, bundling, faster shipping, or extended warranties add value and differentiate your offering.
How SCF Can Support You
These strategies don’t just make sense — they’re areas we actively support with tailored services and solutions.
Build or Improve Your Shopify Store
Whether launching a new store or upgrading an existing one, we can help with B2B and D2C storefronts, including custom pricing, wholesale portals, and gated content.
Integrate with Inventory & ERP Systems
We can connect your Shopify store to inventory and order management systems to reduce manual work and improve accuracy.
Enhance Product Strategy
Our team can help with product bundling, cross-sell, and upsell strategies that increase both perceived value and margins.
Optimize for UX & Conversions
We focus on site speed, layout improvements, and mobile-first design to convert more visitors into buyers.
Strengthen Email & CRM Retention
We implement email automation and customer flows using tools like Klaviyo to drive retention and customer lifetime value.
Explore International Opportunities
Looking beyond tariff-impacted regions? We help you expand into new territories and localize your storefront for international growth.
Final Thoughts
Trade disruptions can be a catalyst for positive change. Companies that evolve their operations, embrace digital, and build direct customer connections are better positioned to grow. If you're ready to take that step, we're here to help.