How Ergoseal Can Help Customers Navigate Tariffs & Supply Chain Challenges

Newly imposed tariffs, shifting trade policies, and supply chain uncertainties continue to create challenges for manufacturers relying on high-performance components. In the fluid sealing industry, where precision and availability are critical, sourcing the right seals at the right time has become increasingly difficult.

Ergoseal is addressing these challenges head-on. With a strong inventory strategy, a global supplier network, and value-added engineering solutions, we ensure that our customers have access to the sealing components they need — without delays or excessive cost increases.

How Tariffs & Trade Disruptions Are Impacting the Fluid Sealing Industry

In March 2025, the U.S. government imposed a 25% tariff on imports of steel and aluminum products under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. Since many mechanical seals and their components contain steel and aluminum, these tariffs have direct cost implications for manufacturers and their customers.  

Key challenges include:

• Rising Raw Material Costs: Tariffs have increased the price of imported steel and aluminum, affecting production costs for seals containing these materials.
• Ripple Effect on Domestic Supply: With reduced foreign competition, U.S. mills have increased pricing, making even domestically sourced materials more expensive.
• Potential Supply Chain Bottlenecks: Higher demand for domestic raw materials has led to longer lead times and supply shortages.
• Uncertain Pricing Structures: Many suppliers have adjusted contract pricing, making it harder for manufacturers to predict costs.

"We haven’t experienced any direct material cost fluctuations or supply chain disruptions from our suppliers so far.  However, the increased tariffs we’ve started incurring on international shipments will inevitably impact overall costs, which will ultimately affect the cost of goods," says Chris Verni, Ergoseal’s COO.

With these factors in mind, Ergoseal has proactively implemented strategies to mitigate risks, control costs, and ensure a reliable supply of sealing solutions for our customers.

How Ergoseal Ensures Reliable Sealing Solutions Despite Supply Chain Uncertainty

Rather than waiting for price hikes and supply chain disruptions to create challenges, Ergoseal has taken a proactive approach by implementing strategic stocking, supplier diversification, and forward-thinking engineering.

Strategic Inventory Stocking

Ergoseal provides key account programs for our strategic partners, helping them mitigate long lead times and unexpected price increases caused by supply chain fluctuations. Through our inventory stocking programs, customers can secure essential parts in advance, minimizing the risk of shortages and keeping operations running smoothly.

Leveraging a Global Supplier Network

Sourcing materials from a diverse network of suppliers allows Ergoseal to adapt to market fluctuations and minimize disruptions. 

"At Ergoseal, we are tapping into our expansive global supply chain. We are looking at alternatives to work with suppliers not subject to tariffs, adjusting pricing structures, or exploring new markets less affected by these trade policies,” says Verni.

Domestic Sourcing & Engineering Optimization

Whenever possible, Ergoseal prioritizes U.S.-based suppliers to limit exposure to tariffs and trade disruptions. Additionally, our engineering team develops optimized designs that:

• Maintain seal performance while adapting to supply chain constraints.
• Reduce reliance on tariffed raw materials without sacrificing durability.
• Improve product longevity and efficiency, helping customers get more value from their sealing solutions.

By implementing these strategies, Ergoseal helps customers maintain productivity, control costs, and navigate supply chain disruptions with confidence.

Why Customers Benefit from Ergoseal’s Stocked & Ready Approach

In an industry where even a small delay in sourcing components can lead to costly downtime, having a trusted partner with a proactive inventory strategy makes all the difference. Ergoseal’s approach ensures that customers don’t just get high-quality seals — they get reliability, efficiency, and long-term cost savings.

• Lower Total Cost of Ownership – Instead of just focusing on material costs, Ergoseal creates custom sealing solutions that extend product life, reduce maintenance, and minimize downtime. This means fewer replacements, lower operational costs, and improved overall efficiency.
• Faster Turnaround, No Delays – While competitors may struggle with sourcing and long lead times, Ergoseal’s stocked inventory ensures customers get what they need, when they need it — keeping operations running smoothly.
• Reliable Supply, No Surprises – A well-managed supplier network and inventory programs help customers avoid unexpected price hikes or shortages, offering greater stability in an unpredictable market.

By maintaining a strong inventory and leveraging a global supplier network, Ergoseal ensures customers can focus on their business instead of worrying about sourcing critical components..

How to Secure Your Sealing Solutions Despite Supply Chain Uncertainty

With tariffs driving up material costs and supply chain volatility remaining a concern, manufacturers need a trusted sealing partner who is prepared, proactive, and well-stocked.

At Ergoseal, we’re committed to partnering with customers to help navigate these challenges by providing:

• In-stock sealing solutions to prevent delays
• A global network of suppliers for cost control
• Smart inventory and sourcing strategies to stabilize pricing

Need seals now? Contact our team to check availability and get the sealing solutions you need — without the wait.