Steel and Aluminum Tariffs: What Construction SMEs Need to Watch

UK Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the construction sector, from builders to specialist fabricators, are navigating a challenging economic climate. Pressures mount from various angles: managing cash flow 1, facing rising operational costs 2, and dealing with persistent supply chain uncertainties.3 Within this complex environment, the fluctuating landscape of steel and aluminum tariffs adds another significant layer of difficulty. These are not just abstract trade policy issues; they translate directly into increased raw material costs, squeezed profit margins, and complex strategic decisions for businesses operating with tighter budgets and fewer dedicated resources than their larger counterparts.4 Recent volatility, particularly driven by actions from major trading partners like the US 5, has heightened the uncertainty, making it harder for SMEs to plan effectively.

This post aims to cut through the complexity surrounding the steel tariffs impact and aluminum import duties. It will explain the key tariffs affecting construction material tariffs for UK SMEs, analyze their tangible effects on costs and profitability, explore practical sourcing adjustments, consider the wider knock-on effects on projects, and introduce a resource designed to help businesses gain clarity and control in this demanding environment.

Decoding the Tariffs: What Duties Apply to Your Materials?

Understanding the specific tariffs applicable to imported and exported goods is the first step towards managing their impact. For UK construction SMEs dealing with steel and aluminum, the picture involves multiple layers.

UK Imports - The UK Global Tariff (UKGT)

Since the UK's departure from the European Union, imports from countries without a specific trade agreement are subject to the UK Global Tariff (UKGT).7 While the UKGT aimed to simplify the previous EU tariff schedule and liberalise duties on some goods, particularly intermediate goods used in UK manufacturing 9, tariffs were retained on key products, including certain steel and aluminum items relevant to construction.7

Determining the exact UKGT rate requires identifying the correct Harmonized System (HS) commodity code for the specific product being imported – a critical step, as errors can lead to incorrect duty payments and potential penalties.10 Steel and aluminum products generally fall under HS Chapters 72, 73, and 76.13 Businesses can use the official UK government's online tool to look up specific rates.7

However, the UKGT rate isn't always the final word. Exceptions exist:

• Goods imported from countries with which the UK has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may benefit from reduced or zero tariffs, provided specific Rules of Origin are met.7
• Imports from certain developing countries may qualify for preferential treatment under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).8
• Specific tariff suspensions or reliefs might apply, although temporary measures like those for COVID-19 related goods are less prevalent now.8

UK Exports - Facing Tariffs Abroad (Focus on US)

For construction SMEs, particularly fabricators exporting finished goods or components, tariffs imposed by other countries are equally relevant. The most significant recent development involves the United States. As of early April 2025, the US imposed an additional baseline tariff of 10% on imports from the UK, levied on top of any existing duties.5

Crucially, this is separate from the pre-existing and ongoing 25% US tariffs specifically targeting steel and aluminum articles (and their derivatives) globally, which also apply to UK exports.10 The US automotive sector faces similar 25% tariffs.5 While some product categories like pharmaceuticals, copper, and lumber were initially exempt from the new baseline tariff 15, these exemptions are under review and could change. Further complexity arises from US requirements for importers to declare the country where steel was melted/poured or aluminum smelted/cast for certain products.13

Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs)

Adding another layer of complexity, some products might be subject to Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs). These allow a specific volume of goods to be imported at a reduced or zero tariff rate. Once this quota is filled, a higher tariff rate applies to subsequent imports.7 While potentially beneficial, navigating TRQs requires careful monitoring and timely applications, which can be challenging for SMEs.

The combination of import duties under the UKGT and potential export tariffs, particularly those imposed by the US, creates a dual pressure point for many construction SMEs. They face higher costs for the raw or semi-finished materials they bring into the UK, while simultaneously finding their fabricated products or components potentially less competitive when sold into key export markets like the US. This double squeeze can significantly impact financial viability. Furthermore, the sheer number of variables involved – different tariff regimes (UKGT, US specific, TRQs), the need for precise HS code classification, understanding FTA rules and the Developing Countries Trading Scheme – generates significant complexity. This complexity itself acts as a barrier, particularly for SMEs lacking dedicated trade expertise or the resources to navigate the intricate rules effectively.2

The Bottom Line Impact: How Tariffs Squeeze SME Margins

Tariffs are not abstract economic figures; they translate into tangible cost increases that directly impact the profitability of construction SMEs.

Direct Material Cost Increases

The tariffs outlined above directly inflate the landed cost of essential construction materials. This includes:

• Structural steel (beams, columns)
• Steel reinforcement bar (rebar)
• Aluminum profiles (used in windows, doors, curtain walling systems)
• Steel and aluminum roofing and cladding sheets
• Fasteners (nuts, bolts, screws made from steel or aluminum)
• Components for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems (ductwork, casings).20

Even a seemingly modest 10% tariff, let alone the 25% duties applied to many steel and aluminum products entering the US or potentially under UKGT for certain codes, represents a substantial increase in the base cost of these often high-value inputs.

Disproportionate SME Impact

SMEs in the construction sector typically feel the pinch of these cost increases more acutely than larger firms. Their operating budgets are often tighter, providing less flexibility to absorb sudden cost hikes.5 They generally possess less purchasing power, making it harder to negotiate bulk discounts or favourable payment terms with suppliers. Cash flow, frequently cited as a major challenge for SMEs 1, can be strained further by the need to pay tariffs upfront or manage duty deferment accounts.22 Compounding this is the common lack of dedicated in-house resources, such as procurement specialists or customs experts, needed to effectively manage the complexities and identify potential cost-saving avenues.3 Research indicates only a small fraction of SMEs have dedicated trade personnel.3

Margin Erosion

The unavoidable consequence of these increased material costs is the erosion of profit margins, unless the additional costs can be successfully passed on to clients. However, in the highly competitive construction market, particularly during tendering processes, SMEs often find it difficult to increase their prices without losing bids to larger competitors who may have more efficient cost structures or diversified supply chains capable of mitigating tariff impacts more effectively. This frequently forces SMEs into the difficult position of having to absorb the increased costs themselves, further squeezing already tight margins.3 SME concerns about the overall costs associated with importing and exporting are well-documented.2

It is crucial to recognise that the financial burden extends beyond the stated tariff percentage. Significant 'hidden costs' associated with compliance also eat into margins. These include the administrative time spent managing complex paperwork, potential fees for customs agents or brokers, and the financial impact of delays if goods are held at customs due to errors or inspections.3 Errors in declarations can lead to penalties 12, adding another layer of financial risk. These administrative and risk-related costs further compound the direct impact of the duties themselves.

Moreover, tariffs can amplify existing competitive disadvantages. Larger construction firms might possess greater resources to navigate the complexities, benefit from long-term supplier contracts insulating them from short-term price shocks, employ financial hedging strategies, or have the scale and flexibility to switch sourcing locations more readily. This superior capacity to absorb or mitigate tariff impacts can widen the competitive gap between larger players and SMEs in the sector.

Rethinking Your Supply Chain: Sourcing Strategies Under Tariff Pressure

The persistent pressure from steel and aluminum tariffs necessitates a strategic reassessment of supply chains for construction SMEs. Simply absorbing costs is often unsustainable; adaptation is key. SME concerns frequently highlight supply chain and logistical issues as major reasons for stopping international trade.3

Option 1: Domestic Sourcing

One logical response is to increase sourcing from UK-based steel and aluminum suppliers. This strategy directly avoids import tariffs under the UKGT and can potentially offer benefits like shorter lead times and support for the domestic economy. Some evidence suggests a post-Brexit trend towards increased use of UK suppliers.28 However, potential drawbacks include potentially higher base prices compared to some international sources, concerns about domestic production capacity meeting demand, a potentially more limited range of specialized products, and the fact that domestic suppliers might themselves be reliant on imported raw materials subject to tariffs further up the supply chain.

Option 2: Alternative International Suppliers & FTAs

Exploring suppliers in countries with which the UK has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) presents another significant opportunity.7 FTAs aim to reduce or eliminate tariffs between member countries, potentially offering substantial cost savings.14 Key agreements include the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) 30, deals with Australia and New Zealand 29, and the UK's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), opening access to 11 Pacific Rim countries including markets like Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Vietnam.33 Beyond tariffs, FTAs can also offer benefits like simplified customs procedures and improved market access.29

Navigating the Complexities & Risks

While attractive, sourcing internationally, even under FTAs, involves navigating significant complexities and risks:

• Rules of Origin (RoO): This is the cornerstone of benefiting from FTA tariff reductions. Goods must be proven to 'originate' in the FTA partner country according to specific criteria, which often involve a certain percentage of value being added locally or a specific change in the product's tariff classification occurring during production.35 SMEs need robust documentation from suppliers to prove origin, and must be wary of potential misrepresentation, as the importer typically bears responsibility.37 The complexity of RoO is a major reason why SMEs often underutilise FTAs.19
• HS Code Classification: Correctly classifying goods using the Harmonized System (HS) code remains paramount. It determines the applicable tariff rate (standard UKGT or preferential FTA rate) and is often linked to the specific RoO requirements.10 Errors can lead to incorrect duty payments, delays, and penalties.26
• Incoterms®: The choice of International Commercial Terms (Incoterms®) in purchase contracts dictates who is responsible for costs (including tariffs and transport) and risks at different stages of the shipment.39 Selecting terms like DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shifts the tariff burden to the seller, while EXW (Ex Works) places it entirely on the buyer (the SME importer). Strategic use of Incoterms can be a powerful mitigation tool.39
• Supplier Due Diligence: Shifting to new international suppliers requires thorough vetting, not just for price and quality, but also for reliability and their ability to provide accurate compliance documentation, especially regarding Rules of Origin.37 Risks include suppliers engaging in transshipment (routing goods via a third country to mask origin) or minimal processing solely to circumvent tariffs.37
• Customs Compliance & Delays: Incorrect or incomplete documentation, misclassification of goods, or errors in origin declarations can lead to shipments being delayed at customs, disrupting project timelines and potentially incurring storage fees.3 Accurate declarations are essential to avoid penalties.12

Mitigation Tools & Strategies

Beyond supplier selection, several tools and strategies can help manage tariff impacts:

• Customs Special Procedures: Authorised businesses can utilise procedures like Customs Warehousing, allowing imported goods to be stored duty-free (and VAT-free) until they are released into the UK market, improving cash flow and deferring tariff payments.22 Inward Processing allows goods to be imported, processed, and re-exported without paying UK duties, beneficial for fabricators serving overseas markets.36 UK Freeports offer designated zones with similar customs benefits.43 These procedures require authorisation from HMRC and strict compliance adherence.
• Tariff Engineering/Optimisation: In some cases, minor modifications to a product's design or composition might legally change its HS classification to one attracting a lower tariff rate.46 Careful review of customs valuation rules might also present opportunities for compliant duty reduction.10 However, businesses must ensure any such strategies are fully compliant and avoid illegal tariff circumvention tactics, which carry severe penalties.26
• Strategic Use of Incoterms: As mentioned, negotiating favourable Incoterms can shift the direct responsibility for paying tariffs away from the SME importer.39
• Supplier Diversification: Reducing reliance on single suppliers or regions, particularly those subject to high or volatile tariffs, spreads risk.5

While FTAs present a clear opportunity to reduce tariff costs, their inherent complexity, particularly around Rules of Origin, can create significant administrative hurdles for SMEs. The effort and expertise required to gather proof and ensure compliance might, for smaller or less frequent shipments, outweigh the financial benefit of the tariff reduction.19 This highlights a critical challenge: FTAs are often more beneficial in theory than in practice for SMEs without adequate support or resources.

Ultimately, the volatile tariff environment demands a shift in sourcing philosophy. Decisions can no longer be based solely on the pre-tariff price. A more strategic approach is required, evaluating suppliers based on risk diversification, their demonstrated compliance capabilities (especially regarding RoO), and the total landed cost, which includes duties, administrative overhead, and the potential cost of delays or non-compliance.

The following table summarises some key mitigation strategies:

The Ripple Effect: Tariffs and Overall Project Costs

The impact of steel and aluminum tariffs extends far beyond the immediate cost increases for SME builders and fabricators. These duties contribute to broader inflationary pressures within the construction sector, sending ripples throughout the value chain and affecting overall project viability.

Construction Inflation

Steel and aluminum are foundational materials in modern construction. Significant cost increases for these inputs, driven partly by tariffs, inevitably contribute to higher overall construction project costs.20 This inflation affects budgets for projects of all sizes, from small residential extensions to major commercial developments.

Impact on Key Sectors

• Housing Affordability: Increased construction costs can directly impact the final price of new homes, potentially exacerbating existing housing affordability challenges.20 This can slow the pace of new housing development or put new homes further out of reach for buyers, ultimately affecting the pipeline of work for SMEs operating in the residential sector.
• Public Infrastructure: Publicly funded projects like schools, hospitals, roads, and rail infrastructure rely heavily on steel and aluminum. Tariff-driven cost increases put pressure on government budgets, potentially leading to project delays, scope reductions, or the need to find savings elsewhere.17 This directly impacts SMEs bidding for or subcontracting on these vital projects, potentially affecting infrastructure project costs tariffs.

Wider Economic Impacts

Beyond the construction sector itself, widespread tariffs can contribute to slower overall economic growth, increased inflation across the economy, and financial market instability.5 A less buoyant national economy typically translates into reduced investment and fewer construction projects being commissioned, further impacting demand for SME services. The imposition of tariffs doesn't merely raise the cost of specific imported goods; it acts as a systemic cost driver. The initial price hike for steel and aluminum reverberates through the entire construction ecosystem, influencing project feasibility, end-user affordability, public spending decisions, and ultimately, the volume and profitability of work available to SMEs.

Navigating the Complexity: Gaining Clarity with The Tariff Research Company

The intricate web of tariffs, trade agreements, compliance rules, and sourcing options can understandably feel overwhelming for busy construction SMEs.2 Finding the time and acquiring the specialist knowledge needed to navigate this landscape effectively is a significant challenge, especially when in-house resources are limited.

This is where The Tariff Research Company can provide crucial support. Recognising the need for accessible, timely, and affordable intelligence, the "Essential" Report as a Service (RaaS) has been designed specifically for SMEs. Delivered within 12 hours at a cost of £99, it provides targeted insights without requiring extensive consultancy fees or time commitments.

The Essential report offers specific, actionable value for UK construction SMEs by addressing the core issues discussed:

• Pinpoint Exposure: The report clarifies precisely which tariffs (UKGT, US duties, etc.) apply to the specific steel, aluminum, and related products a business imports or exports, ensuring the analysis is based on correct HS commodity codes.
• Identify Supply Chain Risks: It analyses a company's unique supply chain, highlighting potential vulnerabilities. This includes assessing risks related to Rules of Origin compliance for claiming FTA preferences, evaluating the tariff implications of current supplier locations, and identifying potential gaps in customs procedures.
• Uncover Mitigation Strategies: Based on the specific business profile, the report provides tailored recommendations on relevant mitigation tactics. This could involve assessing the viability of sourcing from specific FTA partner countries, evaluating the potential benefits of customs special procedures like warehousing or inward processing, or advising on the importance of verifying HS classification accuracy.
• Find Competitive Advantages: The analysis may also uncover opportunities. This could involve confirming whether a company's specific products are less affected by tariffs than competitors', highlighting the cost benefits of domestic sourcing if applicable, or identifying niche export markets offering more favourable tariff treatment.18 Understanding where a business stands relative to competitors can inform strategic pricing and positioning.

Stop guessing and start strategizing. Gain clarity on how steel and aluminum tariffs specifically affect your construction business. Get your personalized Essential Tariff Report in 12 hours for just £99 and take control of your tariff exposure.

This service helps transform tariff management from a reactive headache into a proactive strategy, supporting better SME construction sourcing decisions.

Conclusion: Taking Control in Uncertain Times

Steel and aluminum tariffs represent a complex and evolving challenge for UK construction SMEs. They directly impact material costs, squeeze profit margins already under pressure, and necessitate a strategic rethink of sourcing and supply chain management. The ripple effects contribute to broader project cost inflation, affecting housing affordability and public infrastructure development.

However, while the global trade landscape presents uncertainties, knowledge provides the power to navigate them effectively. Understanding specific tariff exposure, exploring mitigation options like FTAs or customs procedures, ensuring compliance with rules like HS classification and Rules of Origin, and adopting a strategic approach to sourcing are crucial steps. Businesses that proactively seek clarity and adapt their strategies are better positioned to build resilience and maintain competitiveness.5 Leveraging accessible resources and expert analysis allows SMEs to make informed, commercially savvy decisions, turning potential threats into managed variables and fostering greater control in uncertain times.

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