Let’s Talk About Tariffs: What Small Businesses Can Do to Stay Ahead

By Alex Viva, Director of SBTDC’s International Business Team

Tariffs aren’t exactly new—but if you’re a small business, they can still feel like a punch to the gut. One day, your pricing structure works. The next, your costs have jumped, and you’re left trying to figure out how to keep things running without losing customers or momentum.

I recently had the chance to sit down with a group of small business owners and advisors to talk through exactly that—what tariffs mean in real life, not in theory. It turned into a really honest and practical conversation. We didn’t have all the answers, but we shared ideas, asked good questions, and came away with a few smart strategies that are worth passing along.

Planning for the Unknown

One thing we all agreed on: unpredictability is the new normal. Tariffs shift. Shipping costs spike. Regulations change. So how do you prepare for something you can’t control?

The businesses that seemed to be handling it best were the ones building flexibility into their planning. That means budgeting for more than one scenario and being ready to pivot when needed. I’ve seen firsthand how just a little extra cushion—whether in your pricing or your timeline—can make a huge difference when something unexpected hits.

Suppliers Are Part of the Strategy

Another recurring theme was supplier relationships. Some folks shared how simply reaching out and asking for a better deal or different payment terms led to real savings. Others talked about the importance of not relying too heavily on one supplier or country.

I’ve had clients who hesitated to change suppliers because of comfort or loyalty, but diversification really does matter. It doesn’t mean ending relationships—it just means building a stronger, more resilient network.

Managing the Customer Side of Things

Raising prices is never fun—but sometimes it’s necessary. One tip that stuck with me: instead of putting the full cost of tariffs on a single product, spread it out. A few small increases across a product line tend to land better with customers than a big jump on one item.

It’s a simple move, but it helps reduce sticker shock—and keeps you from constantly having to explain what changed.

Watch the Fine Print

This one came up more than once: check your invoices. Are you being charged tariffs on just the product? Or are you accidentally paying on freight and insurance too?

It’s an easy thing to overlook, and I’ve seen it happen often. A careful review—or even a quick conversation with your customs broker—can sometimes uncover savings you didn’t know you had.

The Power of a Peer Group

One of my favorite parts of the discussion was hearing how much people are learning just by talking to each other. Some businesses have teamed up to buy in bulk. Others are swapping stories about freight costs, customs issues, or tools they’ve found useful.

It’s a good reminder: you don’t have to figure everything out alone. And sometimes the best solutions come from someone in your same boat.

Take a Fresh Look at Your Business Plan

If you haven’t revisited your business plan recently, now might be the time. Conditions change fast. What worked last year might not make sense anymore.

I always encourage businesses to take a step back every so often—not just to fix problems, but to look for new opportunities. A small tweak in your strategy can make a big difference over time.

Need Help Navigating It All?

If you’re in North Carolina and looking for support, the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) is a great resource. Our team works one-on-one with businesses to improve export strategies, review supply chains, and navigate the real costs of tariffs.

You can learn more on our International Business page.

Final Thoughts

This wasn’t a conversation with easy answers—but that’s okay. What it showed me is that small businesses are incredibly resilient. With a little planning, a few smart moves, and a willingness to connect with others, you can find your way through the uncertainty.

If tariffs have been weighing on your mind, you’re definitely not alone. And if you’re ready to tackle them head-on, there’s help out there—and people who are figuring it out right alongside you.