What tariffs REALLY cost your project

And Why It’s Time to Rethink Your Sourcing Strategy

BTDS works with our EU, UK and Canadian manufacturers to bring you highly reliable design savvy solutions

If you’re involved in commercial or hospitality design or procurement, you’ve likely heard the word “tariffs” more in the past year than you ever wanted to. You’ve also probably already seen the impact firsthand—even if it didn’t show up as a line item on your invoice.

Because here’s the truth:

Tariffs don’t just raise prices. They cause ripple effects that can slow projects, strain client relationships, and seriously impact your bottom line.

Let’s break down what that really looks like—and how you can avoid it.

Camira Textiles for commercial, hospitality and residential projects is from the UK - and is tariff free on Canadian Projects!

The Domino Effect of Tariffs

Tariffs are often framed as a “cost increase,” but what they really create is instability.

When a product you’ve spec’d is suddenly subject to an additional charge of 5%, 10%, 25% of the invoice cost just to get it across the border, —the dominoes start falling:

• Sudden re-specs when a previously-approved item is no longer viable

• Timeline delays when goods are stuck on a container waiting to clear customs, or rerouted to other ports - processing these compex tariffs are causing delays down stream

• Budget revisions that throw off entire project scopes and timelines

• Friction with clients who feel caught off guard and not in control

• Team burnout as your designers or coordinators scramble for alternatives

  
  

The emotional toll is real. And in high-visibility projects like public spaces, hospitality or commercial developments, these disruptions can cost far more than the tariff itself.

Starting July 1 BTDS will have our award winning Class A acoustic Hush Free Pods in several configurations in stock in Canada ready to ship tariff free!

What You Should Be Asking Your Vendors

In today’s sourcing climate, designers and procurement pros need to ask deeper questions:

• How are your brands impacted by current U.S. tariffs?

• What kind of lead times can I realistically expect right now?

• Do you offer local inventory or tariff-free collections?

• How do you handle backorders and global disruptions?

If your vendor doesn’t have confident, strategic answers to those questions… it’s time to explore alternatives.

OFGO Studio is made in Canada, specializes in receptions, cased goods, lounge and seating and accessories. OFGO also has a quick ship program!

How BrassTacks Design Source Keeps Projects Protected

At BrassTacks, we have always been known for Made in Canada and unique European designed Solutions. We are proactive in our support from design to procurement to installation and after sales service.

We represent Canadian and European brands, intentionally avoiding the high volatility from the US. That gives our clients/designers/dealers peace of mind through:

✔️ Tariff-free product options

✔️ Predictable pricing (no last-minute cost spikes)

✔️ Steady lead times, even in unpredictable markets

✔️ Clear, proactive communication on availability and timelines

You get gorgeous, commercial grade, contract interiors products—without the project stress.

From textiles and acoustic solutions to private offices, boardrooms, and all sorts of accessories including planters, writing boards, rugs, lighting and more, we have the breadth and depth of solutions to support your projects!

Punt 2025 products are ready to order now! Tariff free and in as little as 6 week lead time!

Design Shouldn’t Feel Risky

Your job is to bring beautiful spaces to life.

Ours is to make that process feel smooth, strategic, and drama-free.

If you're ready to spec smarter—and shield your projects from surprises—we're ready to help.

📩 Let’s talk about your next project and our Tariff-Free Collection.