Importing windows from Europe and Trump’s tarrifs: Is this still profitable?
Is importing windows from Europe a viable strategy? American developers and large construction company owners are looking for ways to improve project margins while minimizing risks.
Recent announcements from the U.S. President’s office regarding changes in tariff policy—specifically a potential 25% duty on European products—have raised questions about whether European windows can still enhance investment profitability. Let’s review the numbers and facts to answer these questions.
Would importing windows from Europe still be profitable if a 25% tariff were imposed?
Short answer: Yes.
Why and how? Let’s look at the numbers. Previously, tariffs on aluminum windows were around 5%, so an increase to 25% is significant. How does this affect the profit margins for developers choosing European windows over American ones?
How much profit can you earn importing windows from Europe?
Until now, importing windows from Europe has resulted in savings of about 50% for standard European products—even after accounting for shipping costs— often being of higher quality than US-made ones.
Difference in prices between US and European windows
For luxury homes requiring custom, high-performance windows, the price difference is even greater. In our work with US clients, we’ve seen pricing disparities of up to 500%.
What does this mean? If you’re managing a large project that demands high-quality windows, European windows—even after a 25% tariff increase—can still help you save between 35% and 65% compared to the cost of American windows.
The bigger the project, the greater the savings
Since increased tariff costs are usually passed on to the final product price, quality isn’t compromised; it just reduces your profit margin.
However, this tariff hike isn’t significant enough to radically impact the profitability of investing in European windows, especially those from Polish manufacturers, which are still cheaper than, for example, German-made windows.
If you’d like to calculate the price difference between our windows and those offered by your supplier, use our calculators and check the price lists for the most popular European windows and doors.
American window
600 USD
single-hung
vinyl or fiberglass
36″ x 60″
Import costs – what you need to know
Importing windows into the USA involves not only the fees directly tied to the process but also the time and effort required to manage the process and logistics.
Formal costs primarily include:
- Transportation expenses
- Customs fees
- Port fees (such as DTHC charges)
- Agency fees
When importing any product, a solid understanding of logistics and procedures is essential to avoid unexpected costs, such as container detention fees.
To learn more about importing windows, read our Quick guide on how to import windows.
Also, check our delivery cost calculator to estimate the price of windows imported from Poland.
How to reduce risks and increase profits when importing windows from Europe
Given the changing tariffs, would it be wiser to source from U.S.-based distributors to avoid these additional costs—even if that means compromising on the quality, price, and design offered by European windows?
Good news: You don’t have to give up the opportunity to increase your profit margin and expand your business.
If you’re considering importing windows, first evaluate whether you have the time and resources to handle not only the process of obtaining quotes, placing orders, and verifying that products meet your project specifications but also the entire customs and import procedure on your own.
To increase your profits, consider partnering with a broker who can navigate changing tariffs more effectively without unnecessary risks and complications, ensuring a guaranteed and streamlined process.
Key takeaways
- Even with tariffs raised to 25%, importing windows from Europe can still save you between 35% and 65%.
- Choosing the right supplier will boost your margins and give you a competitive edge, all while keeping risks to a minimum.
Choosing the right European window supplier can provide you with peace of mind and transaction security. At debesto, we help U.S. developers makes sourcing these windows simple and hassle-free.
Here’s how we help:
- Increase your profit margins thanks to business and product consultation
- On-site delivery – we organize shipping for you, hassle-free
- Reliable lead times – avoid delays and meet deadlines
- Straightforward ordering process – no unnecessary emails or calls
- Enhance your brand’s reputation with superior products
- Support in your time zone – available until 4 p.m. EST (contact us)
Need help with importing windows from Europe?
We’ll manage importing windows process and help you find windows that meet your standards, stick to your deadlines, and boost your profit margins.
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