By the MSI Leadership Team
“Tariffs aren’t just coming — they’re landing. Literally.”
On June 4, 2025 at 12:01 AM, the U.S. government implemented a significant escalation in its Section 232 trade measures: tariffs on steel and aluminum imports officially doubled to 50% for most countries.
(White House Proclamation)
While the rate itself is headline-worthy, it’s the rule change behind the scenes that has the most immediate business impact:
Tariff enforcement is now based on arrival at U.S. ports—not the departure date from the country of origin.
This means goods in transit when the tariff took effect are no longer exempt. If a container lands after June 4, it’s subject to the 50% duty, regardless of when it was ordered or shipped.
What This Means for Your Business
This change removes the buffer window many buyers used to plan around tariff surges. Instead of getting 30–45 days of lead time before pricing adjusted, cost increases are now being felt almost immediately upon arrival.
We’re already seeing price volatility and tighter timelines on:
- Forged Stainless Fittings & Flanges
- Carbon Steel Nipples (Welded & Seamless)
- Merchant Couplings
- Cast Aluminum and Malleable Iron Fittings
MSI’s Response: Lock-In Window Until June 23
To support customers through this fast-moving shift, MSI is honoring pre-June 4 pricing on orders received by June 23, 2025.
After that:
- New list prices reflecting the 50% tariff will go into effect
- All prior net price files will become invalid
- No backorders will be allowed—material must be available and confirmed
Why the Policy Shift Changes Everything
Under the previous system, we could anticipate tariff timelines based on shipment dates. That gave distributors and project managers breathing room to plan around upcoming increases. Now, the moment a container hits the dock, it’s subject to new rates—and the duty is due immediately.
This is already showing up in landed costs and pricing adjustments from manufacturers and freight partners.
What You Can Do Now
- Review current and upcoming projects for steel, aluminum, and stainless content
- Get updated pricing files from your MSI rep—many are already outdated
- Place orders for known needs before June 23 to secure current pricing
We're Navigating This With You
At MSI, we’re committed to transparency, early notice, and helping our customers stay ahead—not react behind.
We’re tracking cargo arrival schedules daily, adjusting safety stock where possible, and working one-on-one with reps to prioritize high-demand items.
If your team needs help understanding how these changes impact your margin, your projects, or your planning windows,we’re ready to work through it with you.
📩 Need updated pricing or have tariff-related questions?
Please contact your MSI representative to stay ahead of the June 23 transition.