If you’re a working musician who orders gear, pedals or parts online, the suspension of the de minimis rule on Aug. 29 is a gut punch. Until that change, goods valued under $800 could slip into the U.S. duty-free. That exemption is now paused, which means almost every import now carries tariffs, fees and delays.
For small-batch gear makers and indie musicians, the impact is real. That $500 snare from Europe? It may now come with a tariff. The boutique pedal you love from Canada? Same story. Even basics — strings, foam, hardware — could bring higher shipping costs and surprise customs bills.
Some strategies to help you stay ahead:
Buy local.
Shops might be pricier up front, but you dodge duties and shipping headaches.
Ask before you order.
Many independent builders overseas don’t realize the rule has changed — confirm what you’ll actually owe.
Pool resources.
Split shipping and tariffs with bandmates or friends.
Keep receipts.
If you’re a working player, those higher gear costs may be tax-deductible.
Don’t wait.
Deliveries are dragging, so forget about quick replacements before a gig.
This isn’t just red tape — it’s money out of your pocket. Until or unless de minimis comes back, assume every cross-border order could cost 20 to 30 percent more. For indie musicians already balancing on thin margins, that means making every purchase count.
Our two-part look at the Trump administration's trade policies and their impact on local independent music
