How U.S. Tariffs May Impact Your Experience with SPO

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We are keeping you informed about global trade changes that may affect you. Recent tariffs have raised costs for our suppliers, and this may be reflected in product pricing and availability.

We want to keep you informed about global trade policy changes that may affect you. Recent tariffs have raised costs for our suppliers, which may eventually show up in product pricing and availability.

What’s Happening?

Recent U.S. trade measures have led to multiple layers of tariffs on imports:

  • For Auto Parts:
    • A general tariff has applied to imported auto parts from China.
    • Additional tariffs have been applied to Chinese goods, including auto parts.
    • Further tariffs have been threatened as part of the trade dispute.
    For auto parts specifically, these measures can raise the effective tariff rate enough to roughly double the product’s cost when imported into the U.S.

  • For Parcels:
    Even if our shipments are dispatched from Australia via Australia International Express Post, if the goods are manufactured in China, they are still classified by their country of origin. This means U.S. Customs will assess the tariff based on Chinese origin.
    • The U.S. importer (in this case, the end customer) is responsible for paying the tariff, which may be passed on as part of the purchase price.
    • Low-value parcels used to be exempt from duty under the de minimis rule, but that exemption no longer applies to Chinese goods.
    • For shipments processed via the Universal Postal Union, a streamlined duty may apply, based on the declared value, with a minimum charge per item.

How does this affect you?

Cost and supply pressures:

  • Pricing: Our suppliers are absorbing these steep tariff rates, with some Chinese auto parts facing very high effective tariffs, so you may notice prices adjust over time.

  • Availability: Disruptions in global supply chains could lead to delays in restocking certain parts.

What we’re doing about it

At Service Parts Online, we are actively managing these challenges to maintain the service and quality you expect:

  • Optimising inventory: We are monitoring our stock levels and market demand to avoid shortages.

  • Absorbing costs where possible: We keep reviewing our cost structures to limit any increases and keep price rises to a minimum.

  • Staying informed: Our team is tracking trade policy developments so we can adapt our operations quickly and keep you updated.

Suggestions for our U.S. customers

Here are some suggestions to help you through the changing tariff situation:

  • Plan ahead:
    If you expect to need specific auto parts, consider ordering in advance. This can help you avoid delays and unexpected cost increases.

  • Understand tariff responsibilities:
    Whichever country the goods ship from (e.g. via Australia International Express Post), if the products are made in China, U.S. Customs will apply the relevant tariff based on their origin. These costs are typically borne by you as importer.

  • Keep up with policy changes:
    Global trade policies are evolving. Stay in touch with us and check our website regularly for the latest updates so you can adjust your orders accordingly.

  • Contact us for assistance:
    If you have any questions or need guidance on how these tariffs might impact your orders, our customer service team is here to help.

How you can stay ahead

  • Stay informed: Visit our website regularly and subscribe to our updates for the latest news on product availability and pricing.

  • Plan ahead: Order early if you expect to need specific parts, to minimise delays or unexpected price hikes.

  • Reach out: Contact our friendly customer service team if you have any questions or concerns.

Thank you for your continued support while trade conditions change. Service Parts Online remains committed to delivering the quality auto parts and service you rely on, even as global trade policies evolve.

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