Is Print on Demand Profitable Under Trump’s Tariff Policy? Strategies for POD Merchant

In recent months, US businesses operating print-on-demand businesses have found themselves in the crosshairs of President Trump’s new tariffs. For entrepreneurs who rely on international suppliers or global print-on-demand platforms, the big question is: Can print-on-demand businesses remain profitable under these new regulations? In this article, we analyze the impact of tariffs on print-on-demand businesses and explore strategies to help businesses remain competitive under these new tariffs.

Is Print on Demand Profitable Under Trump’s Tariff Policy?

Print-on-demand has long been considered one of the most beginner-friendly online business models. You don’t need inventory, you don’t need to worry about upfront costs, and you can sell globally with just a laptop and some creativity. But with Trump’s tariff policy reshaping international trade, POD merchants are beginning to feel the pressure.

One of the biggest changes is the end of the “de minimis” exemption. Previously, packages under $800 could enter the U.S. duty-free, which made low-cost international fulfillment a no-brainer for POD sellers. Now, those packages are subject to tariffs and stricter customs checks, which means both costs and delivery times are going up.

Beyond shipping, tariffs on blank products and raw materials, like T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and even printing inks, are cutting directly into margins. Many POD providers rely on Chinese or Mexican manufacturers, and with duties ranging anywhere from 10% to over 100%, merchants are seeing their base costs climb dramatically.

It’s not just about money, either. Operational risks are rising. More customs inspections mean more delays, which can lead to unhappy customers, refund requests, and lower store ratings. And when consumer patience is already thin in the era of two-day shipping, this creates real challenges for smaller sellers.

So, is POD still profitable? The short answer is yes, but not by doing business as usual. Sellers who adapt quickly. Whether by shifting to domestic fulfillment, raising prices strategically, or targeting new markets, they still have plenty of room to grow. The POD model isn’t dead; it’s just evolving under a new set of trade rules.

Strategies for POD Merchant

The tariff policy has brought new challenges. If POD merchants want to maintain their previous profit levels, they must adopt some new marketing strategies to improve their competitiveness.

Shift to Domestic or Tariff-Friendly Fulfillment

One of the most effective ways to protect profits is to mitigate the impact of tariffs. Producing and shipping products within the US or other tariff-friendly countries can completely avoid many additional costs and customs delays. Selling locally manufactured products also increases perceived value, allowing you to charge higher prices.

Many POD platforms, such as PeaPrint, offer shipping options within the US. This can significantly increase your business’s resilience to current tariffs.

Market Diversification

Don’t rely solely on the US market. Targeting markets like Canada, Europe, and Australia can effectively spread the risk of tariff-related costs. Selling internationally also allows you to reach an audience willing to pay a premium for unique designs.

When diversifying your market, it’s crucial to first research local needs and localize your marketing. This not only helps reduce tariff costs but also opens up new revenue streams, making your business more resilient to changes in any given country’s policies.

Optimize Product and Pricing Strategy

Tariffs and rising costs are squeezing your profits, so you may also need to optimize your product offerings and pricing strategies to ensure your POD business is profitable.

Here are some product and pricing strategies for your reference:

• Focus on high-value or niche products: Custom mugs, uniquely designed custom yoga wear, or all-over print baby clothes can allow you to charge a premium to offset higher base costs.
• Strategic price adjustments: Gradually adjust prices to reflect increased costs rather than sudden, large hikes that might alienate customers.
• Bundling and upselling: Offer product bundles or complementary items to increase average order value without significantly raising perceived prices.

Supply Chain Optimization

Just like market diversification, avoid over-reliance on any one country. Here are some things you can do to optimize your supply chain:

• Look for suppliers in regions with lower or no import duties to reduce product costs.
• Many POD platforms offer warehouses in multiple countries, allowing you to ship closer to your customers and bypass tariffs.
• For high-demand items, keeping a small inventory locally can prevent delays and allow for faster shipping.
• Explore bulk pricing or long-term agreements to stabilize costs and protect margins.
• Choose carriers and routes that minimize customs handling and reduce the likelihood of delays.

Enhance Brand and Service

Your business image determines the perceived value of your products. Even if tariffs increase costs, brand-conscious customers will still choose your products or services. Focus on building your brand and service to earn consumer recognition. You can design a professional online store, emphasize local fulfillment or production to resonate with customers, provide excellent customer support, and offer unique packaging and branding. These steps can help you build a strong brand and a loyal customer base.

Conclusion

Trump’s tariff policies have undoubtedly changed the landscape for print-on-demand merchants, introducing higher costs, customs delays, and new operational challenges. However, POD is far from obsolete. The key is adaptability; those who embrace these strategies and remain proactive in navigating trade changes will not only survive but can thrive in this evolving environment.

FAQs

Will tariffs kill the POD business model?

No. While tariffs increase costs and create new challenges, POD remains a viable business model. Sellers who adapt by optimizing supply chains, adjusting pricing, or targeting different markets can continue to be profitable.

Should I switch all production to the US?

Not necessarily. A hybrid approach often works best, producing some items domestically to avoid tariffs while maintaining flexibility with international suppliers for other products.

How much more expensive will POD products become?

The impact varies depending on product type, supplier location, and shipping method. On average, merchants may see cost increases between 10% and 30%, which can often be offset with strategic pricing and product differentiation.

Is it worth selling to non-US markets now?

Yes. Expanding to regions like Canada, Europe, or Australia reduces exposure to US tariffs and opens new revenue streams, helping stabilize profitability.

How can I maintain fast shipping despite tariffs?

Using domestic fulfillment centers or regional warehouses, optimizing shipping routes, and combining small local inventory with POD production can ensure faster delivery times and better customer satisfaction.