Tariffs. Just the word is enough to trigger stress. We’ve been fielding call after call at PartsEdge: What’s happening? Is there going to be a shortage? Should I stock up?

That’s why we hosted a live webinar: to break down the noise and give parts leaders real-world guidance to stay calm, stay prepared, and stay profitable.

Here’s a recap of what we covered 👇

The Truth: This Is Not a Shortage Issue

Unlike pandemic-related disruptions or strikes that led to actual shortages, tariffs will lead to cost increases, not supply outages.

“This is not like the pandemic. Your current inventory will appreciate. Be strategic, not reactive.” – Blake Featherly

The worst thing you can do right now is overbuy and tie up capital based on fear.

Appreciation/Depreciation Reports Are Your Best Friend

Chuck Hartle emphasized: "The #1 report every parts manager should watch monthly is the appreciation/depreciation report."
This will show you exactly when your costs start creeping up—before it impacts your margins.

We’ve already seen some manufacturers move early. Chrysler, for example, raised prices by 3%. Others will likely follow.

Review Your Pricing Matrix—Now

Tariffs bring pricing back into focus. Menu and family pricing that hasn’t been adjusted in years can quickly erode profits.

Example: That cabin air filter you’ve had locked at $29.95 for years? If costs have gone up 10% or more, your margin is shrinking fast.

This is the time to evaluate your matrix structure and consider using multiple matrices for different part types to fine-tune profitability.

“Your fast-moving parts do 80% of your profit. Protect them.” – Chuck Hartle

Avoid Emotional Overstocking

One dealer considered jumping to a 6-month supply of maintenance parts, which would have cost an extra $100,000. Chuck talked them down, showing how the extra inventory wouldn’t provide a real advantage once holding costs were factored in.

Moral of the story? React with data, not emotion.

💪 Control What You Can

You can’t control tariffs.
You can control:

• Your pricing structure

• Your day supply strategy

• Your inventory mix

• Eliminating aged/obsolete parts to free up space

🎥 Missed the Webinar?

No worries—you can still catch the full conversation.
👉 Watch the recording here

If you want to talk through your parts pricing or inventory strategy, just reply here or schedule a chat 👉 Schedule a Call

Let’s lead the industry by staying focused, disciplined, and ready for whatever comes next.