An upcoming wave of tariffs under former President Donald Trump promises to reshape prices. Certain products may become cheaper over time. Here are five categories you might want to wait to buy.
1. Gasoline
Ironically, oil markets may react to the tariff environment, with crude prices falling and consequently reducing pump costs. Energy experts forecast savings of up to 15 cents per gallon. If your vehicle has some buffer, consider waiting a few weeks to benefit from this dip.
2. Beef
U.S. beef producers may see less competition from renegotiated imports—particularly from Mexico—leading to stabilization or even lower prices domestically in the months ahead. With a tighter supply landscape, farmers could offer more favorable pricing .
3. Timber
A presidential push to boost U.S. timber —increasing production by about 25%—aims to fill the current shortfall. The U.S. uses roughly 50 billion board feet of timber annually but brings in only ~35 billion domestically. Despite forecasted delays, the increased supply could soften prices in the mid‑term, though it may take months or even years to fully materialize.
4. Furniture
With around 75% of U.S. furniture historically imported, higher foreign tariffs will reduce overseas competition. If domestic factories use the opportunity to scale production, American-made pieces may become more economically priced—and perhaps even more plentiful.
5. Clothing
Similar dynamics apply to the textile industry. As imports become more expensive, U.S. producers could grow output. Over time, this shift might make domestically made clothing more affordable than its imported alternatives .
Why Prices Might Drop
Domestically produced options often lag behind overseas imports in cost. Without foreign competition or with diminished imports due to tariffs, U.S. manufacturers gain room to reduce prices for domestic buyers. Meanwhile, as elected executives aim to increase production capacity, economies of scale might tip further in favor of U.S.-made goods.
A Long-Term Perspective
Price shifts across these sectors are not immediate. Here’s what to expect:
- Gas: Quickest effect—possibly within weeks—as oil markets adjust.
- Beef: Changes rely on evolving supply chain flows and trade policies; a few months lead time expected.
- Timber & Furniture: Supply increases need investment and ramp-up time—expert forecasts note a timeline of several months to years
- Clothing: Similarly depends on whether U.S. manufacturers can scale up fast enough to meet demand.
Should You Wait?
If you don’t urgently need any of these items, delaying your purchase might pay off. Expect incremental savings on gasoline soon, and potential discounts or stabilization for beef, lumber, furniture, and clothing in the medium term. Conversely, if you need something now—especially as August 1 nears—prices may begin trending higher.
Final Take
Buy immediately:
- Anything you need before tariffs launch.
- Wait if you can:
- Gas: Watch prices over the next few weeks.
- Beef, timber, furniture, clothing: Anticipate mid- to long-term domestic price improvements.
In a world of rising import duties and domestic ramp-up, timing your purchases could turn today’s uncertainty into tomorrow’s budget win.
Conclusion
As the August 1 deadline for the new Trump tariffs approaches, many Americans are rushing to make purchases before potential price hikes. However, not all items will immediately become more expensive—some, like gas, beef, timber, furniture, and clothing, may actually become cheaper in the months following the tariff implementation. This is largely due to anticipated increases in domestic production and reduced competition from imports. If you can afford to wait, delaying purchases in these categories could save you money in the long run. While not every sector will respond the same way or at the same speed, a strategic approach to spending—based on informed timing—can help you navigate the shifting economic landscape with confidence and clarity.
