At RediRack, we have witnessed how global trade tensions, particularly new US tariffs, are reshaping the storage rack manufacturing industry. Steel and aluminium—key materials in our durable racking systems—are facing rising costs, impacting manufacturers and warehouse operators alike. These changes bring higher prices, supply chain challenges, and uncertainty.
But what is driving this shift, and how does RediRack keep your operations on track?
Understanding the New Tariffs
In early 2025, US President Donald Trump rolled out sweeping tariffs: a 10% baseline on nearly all imports starting 5th April followed by 125% on Chinese goods, 20% on EU imports, and 10% on UK imports on 9th April. These build on the reintroduced Section 232 tariffs—25% on steel and 25% on aluminium—effective 11th Februrary 2025, after exemptions lapsed.
Source: The Guardian, The White House (data accurate as of April 2025).
Aimed at boosting US production, these tariffs hit manufacturers reliant on imported materials hard. RediRack, however, leverages UK-based manufacturing and local sourcing to sidestep these disruptions, ensuring stable pricing and supply for our customers.
How Tariffs Hit Storage Rack Manufacturers
Rising Production Costs
Tariffs inflate the price of steel and aluminium, critical for high-quality racking systems. Manufacturers tied to imports face unpredictable costs and compliance hurdles. RediRack’s local production keeps our costs steady, letting us offer competitive prices without cutting corners on quality.
Supply Chain Uncertainty
Beyond cost, tariffs disrupt material availability, delaying manufacturing and installations. Industry data shows price volatility of 10–34%, with Chinese tariffs potentially hiking costs by up to 125%. As a UK manufacturer, RediRack avoids these snags, delivering faster lead times and reliability.
Why RediRack Stands Out
UK-Made Reliability
Tariffs inflate the price of steel and aluminium, critical for high-quality racking systems. Manufacturers tied to imports face unpredictable costs and compliance hurdles. RediRack’s local production keeps our costs steady, letting us offer competitive prices without cutting corners on quality.
Cost-Saving Designs
Every warehouse is different, and we get that. RediRack’s tailored solutions maximize your space and budget, helping you offset tariff-related cost pressures. Whether upgrading or starting fresh, we deliver quality and compliance without the premium.
RediRack are full members of SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association), with our installation and inspection teams fully SARI (SEMA Approved Rack Inspector), and SEIRS (Storage Equipment Installers Registration Scheme) registered.
Support You Can Count On
We are more than a supplier—we are a partner. From planning to installation, RediRack’s team offers expert advice to adapt to market shifts. Our goal? Keep your storage efficient, safe, and affordable, no matter the economic weather.
Looking Forward
These tariffs may linger, with steel and aluminium costs tied to ongoing US protectionism and global volatility.
UK businesses need a dependable ally now more than ever. RediRack brings price security, local expertise, and top-tier solutions to the table.
Take Control with RediRack
Tariffs do not have to disrupt your warehouse plans. RediRack’s UK-made systems offer affordability, durability, and peace of mind in a turbulent market.
Please Note: This post reflects tariff impacts as of April 2025. Trade policies shift—check current data before acting.
