In 2025, global supply chains are still navigating aftershocks from the pandemic, inflation, labor shortages, and geopolitical shifts. One critical factor that continues to influence the cost and availability of commercial office furniture is tariffs—specifically those levied on imported goods, components, and raw materials.
As a leading commercial office furniture provider based in Chicago, RJ Furniture is closely monitoring how trade policy developments are shaping our industry. Whether you’re a facilities manager planning a renovation, or a business leader budgeting for a new hybrid office space, understanding how tariffs could affect pricing, availability, and product selection is more important than ever.
What’s Happening with Tariffs in 2025?
The U.S. has maintained tariffs on a wide range of imported goods from countries including China, Vietnam, and other key manufacturing hubs. This includes raw materials like steel and aluminum—used in furniture frames and bases—as well as finished goods such as desks, chairs, and storage systems.
As trade negotiations continue and new tariffs are proposed or re-evaluated, businesses are seeing ripple effects across the supply chain:
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Increased costs for imported furniture and parts
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Longer lead times due to shifting sourcing strategies
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Price fluctuations in materials like steel, wood, and plastics
For commercial buyers, this uncertainty can make furniture procurement more complex and more expensive.
How This Affects Office Furniture Buyers
Tariffs directly impact the landed cost of office furniture, meaning what you ultimately pay for a product once shipping, customs, and import fees are factored in. Manufacturers often pass these costs down to distributors and dealers, who in turn adjust pricing to end users.
Here’s what this means for your business:
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Budgeting becomes unpredictable. Prices on imported furniture can change with little notice.
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Product availability may be limited. Some manufacturers may discontinue items or rework product lines to avoid tariffed components.
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Lead times may increase. Manufacturers may shift production to non-tariffed countries, creating temporary delays during transition periods.
Smart Strategies for Buyers in a Tariff-Driven Market
At RJ Furniture, we help our clients navigate these challenges by staying agile and strategic. Here are a few ways we recommend preparing for tariff-related impacts:
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Start projects early. Extended lead times are the new normal. Begin planning your office redesign or relocation months in advance.
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Consider domestic manufacturers. U.S.-based brands are less vulnerable to tariffs and may offer faster delivery.
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Explore pre-owned options. High-quality refurbished furniture offers cost savings and avoids import fees altogether.
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Buy strategically. Instead of replacing all furniture at once, consider phased updates or blending new and existing pieces.
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Work with an experienced partner. At RJ Furniture, we monitor supplier updates, negotiate on your behalf, and build flexible solutions that meet your goals—even in a volatile market.
The Long-Term Outlook
Tariffs are likely to remain part of the global trade landscape for the foreseeable future. Whether they increase, decrease, or shift focus, one thing is certain: businesses that plan ahead and stay informed will have the advantage.
By working with a knowledgeable partner like RJ Furniture, you can mitigate risks, control costs, and still create a workspace that supports your people and your performance.
Need help navigating furniture procurement in a changing market?
Contact RJ Furniture today or visit <a href=”https://www.rjfurniture.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>rjfurniture.com</a> to schedule a consultation with our workspace experts.
