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How New U.S. Tariffs and Rising Material Costs Are Impacting Packaging Prices – Pipeline Packaging Update

April 29, 2025

Tariffs May 2025

At Pipeline Packaging, we are committed to keeping you informed about critical developments impacting the packaging supply chain. Recently, the U.S. government implemented new tariffs on packaging materials, while rising costs for domestic steel, resin, and tinplate continue to affect the market. These factors are driving changes to packaging pricing across multiple industries. Here’s what you need to know.

Overview of New U.S. Tariffs Affecting Packaging Materials

In April 2025, new tariffs were introduced that impact a wide range of imported goods, particularly from China and other non-U.S. countries:

Area Impacted

Tariff Rate

Details

China

145%

Includes a 20% IEEPA tariff and 125% reciprocal tariff

Steel / Aluminum

25%

Applies globally, stacks with IEEPA but not reciprocal tariffs (e.g., China, steel goods receive 45%)

Canada and Mexico

TBD

Still under negotiation – steel/aluminum tariffs do apply

Other Non-US Countries

10%

10 % baseline tariff

 

These new tariffs significantly affect the cost of steel, aluminum, and other packaging materials commonly used in manufacturing and shipping.

Domestic Material Costs Driving Further Increases

Beyond international tariffs, U.S. manufacturers are adjusting prices due to increased input costs, particularly for resin, tinplate, and domestic steel. As a result, even packaging products not directly impacted by the new tariffs are experiencing cost increases. This trend affects a wide range of items across our industrial packaging solutions, from metal cans to plastic containers.

What to Expect: Pipeline Packaging Pricing Updates

In response to these developments, Pipeline Packaging will implement new pricing effective May 9, 2025, for most products. However, products directly impacted by China-specific tariffs will see price changes immediately, due to the urgency and scope of the tariff enforcement.

Your dedicated Pipeline Packaging Sales Representative will be reaching out to review these updates and help you prepare for any necessary adjustments. If you’d like to proactively discuss how these pricing changes may impact your supply chain, please contact us directly at 877.242.1880.

We value your partnership and appreciate your understanding as we navigate these evolving packaging market dynamics together.