As the Australian financial year comes to a close, many businesses are finalising stock levels, reviewing freight spend, and locking in supplier commitments. But this year, there’s a wildcard: the return of US tariffs under a second Trump administration. While the tariffs are largely aimed at China and other major trade partners, the ripple effect on Australian businesses could be significant — particularly for those reliant on international suppliers or US-linked trade routes.
Why Tariffs Abroad Matter to Logistics at Home
Even if you’re not importing directly from the US or China, global tariffs create volatility. Costs for raw materials can spike unexpectedly, shipping lanes may reconfigure, and lead times can blow out with little warning. That’s a serious challenge when you’re trying to close the year cleanly and plan the next with confidence.
For businesses in retail, manufacturing, or distribution, any disruption to freight pricing or availability impacts landed cost, profit margins, and delivery promises. And with EOFY often being a period of heavy inbound stock, delayed containers or inflated rates can translate directly into lost revenue or write-downs.
3 Practical Moves to Make Before June 30
1. Reforecast with Margin Protection in Mind
If you’ve based product pricing on pre-tariff freight costs, it’s time to revisit your models. Ensure you’re allowing for volatility in your landed costs and consider how pricing or supplier terms might need to shift for FY25.
2. Audit Your Supplier Risk
Now is the moment to check how exposed your supply chain is to tariff-affected regions. Are there alternative suppliers or shipping routes you can lock in ahead of the new financial year?
3. Lock in Flexible Freight Capacity
Tariff announcements often drive last-minute shipping demand as importers rush to beat implementation dates. That can tighten carrier availability fast. Partner with a logistics provider who can secure priority access or offer dynamic routing options as conditions change.
A Trusted Partner Makes the Difference
At Clique Logistics, we keep our clients informed of global trade shifts — and we act fast when volatility hits. We help you stay ahead of price hikes, carrier constraints, and risk exposure. EOFY is your chance to build resilience, not just reconcile the books.
If you need help forecasting, auditing, or stress-testing your freight strategy before 30 June, we’re here to assist. Reach out to talk to a real person in 9 seconds — and never follow up twice.
