Understanding tariff impacts on accessibility products and our strategy to keep prices affordable.
As of February 2025, significant new U.S. tariffs are now in effect—25% on most goods imported from Canada and Mexico (with Canadian energy products taxed at 10%), and 10% on imports from China. At Mobility123, we understand that these changes are creating uncertainty across the industry. In this update, we explain how these tariffs impact our key product lines from Savaria and Stiltz, and outline the proactive steps we’re taking to protect your investment in home accessibility.
Overview of the New Tariffs
The U.S. government has officially enacted tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Here’s what you need to know:
- Canada & Mexico: A 25% tariff now applies to nearly all imported goods. (An exception exists for Canadian energy products—oil, natural gas, and electricity—taxed at a 10% rate.)
- China: Imports are now subject to a 10% tariff, which is the total duty rate set by this latest measure.
These tariffs were introduced in an effort to address issues related to border security, drug trafficking (including the influx of fentanyl), and trade imbalances. While these policies aim to reshape global supply chains, they also directly affect specialized imports—like the accessibility solutions we provide.
Impact on Canadian Imports: Savaria Products
Tariff Effect:
Products manufactured by Savaria in Canada are now hit with a 25% tariff. For example, if a Savaria home lift costs $5,000, the tariff would add an extra $1,250—bringing the total to $6,250.
Manufacturer Response:
Savaria is actively working behind the scenes to explore strategies to ease the tariff impact. Although no formal mitigation plan has been finalized, they are evaluating options such as supply chain adjustments and potential tariff exemptions.
Customer Impact:
- Price Adjustments: You might see a modest price increase on Canadian-sourced accessibility products.
- Product Availability: As the industry adjusts, there may be short-term changes in product variety or lead times.
At Mobility123, we are monitoring these developments closely and are committed to keeping our pricing as fair as possible.
Impact on Chinese Imports: Stiltz Products
Tariff Effect:
Stiltz products from China now incur a 10% tariff. For a Stiltz home elevator priced at $5,000, the additional cost would be $500, making the final cost $5,500.
Manufacturer Response:
Stiltz is exploring ways to mitigate tariff impacts—such as renegotiating terms or adapting their production process—but has yet to announce a definitive plan.
Customer Impact:
- Cost Impact: The 10% tariff will likely cause a smaller price increase compared to Canadian products.
- Supply Adjustments: As with Savaria, adjustments in supply and logistics may occur, but Mobility123 is dedicated to minimizing any inconvenience.
How Mobility123 Is Proactively Responding
At Mobility123, our top priority is to ensure that you continue to receive high-quality accessibility solutions without unexpected price hikes. Here’s what we’re doing:
- Cost Management: We are actively reviewing our supply chain and negotiating with our partners to find efficiencies that can offset any tariff-induced cost increases.
- Maintaining Transparency: We promise to communicate any changes in pricing clearly. If tariff adjustments affect our product costs, we’ll update you immediately via our website, email newsletters, and blog.
- Exploring Alternatives: Our team is considering various sourcing strategies and production efficiencies to ensure we can continue to offer the best products at competitive prices, even as global trade policies evolve.
- Ongoing Collaboration: We remain in close contact with both Savaria and Stiltz. While their mitigation plans are still in development, we are committed to sharing any significant updates as soon as they become available.
FAQ: Tariffs & Accessibility Solutions
Will the new tariffs increase the cost of my accessibility equipment?
Yes, tariffs may lead to modest price increases. For instance, a $5,000 product from Canada could increase by $1,250 (25%), while a similar product from China would see an extra $500 (10%).
What is Mobility123 doing to manage tariff impacts?
We’re streamlining our supply chain, exploring cost-offsetting strategies, and maintaining transparent communication with our customers to ensure minimal disruption.
How will I know if prices change?
We will update our website, send out newsletters, and provide detailed blog posts as soon as any pricing adjustments are confirmed.
Are there domestic alternatives for these accessibility solutions?
Yes, there are alternative options available. In addition to Savaria and Stiltz products—which are renowned for their specialized quality and innovation—we already have established partnerships with domestic suppliers such as Symmetry Elevators and Cibes Lifts that are not affected by the new tariffs. Moving forward, we will be working even more closely with these partners to ensure that you have access to a broad range of high-quality and affordable accessibility solutions.
Next Steps
The new tariffs have now taken effect, and they pose challenges to the supply of specialized accessibility products. However, at Mobility123, we are committed to navigating these changes proactively to protect your investment in home accessibility. Our ongoing communication and cost-management strategies mean that we’ll continue to offer reliable, high-quality solutions while keeping you informed every step of the way.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to Contact Us or call us at (609) 385-9575.
