Tariffs are putting pressure on ecommerce brands in a big way. In a recent Clearco study of 97 US-based ecommerce leaders, nearly 80% said tariffs are a moderate or major concern. These are not early-stage startups. Most have been operating for over five years and are navigating this challenge with experience and scale.

To manage the impact, many are rethinking how they source products. Approximately three-quarters plan to increase local sourcing over the next year. This shift points to a broader strategy taking shape among mature businesses, one that focuses on flexibility and supply chain resilience as foundations for long-term growth.

How Tariffs Are Forcing Ecommerce Businesses to Rethink Pricing and Profit Margins

Tariffs are forcing companies to make tough calls that directly affect pricing, margins, and planning. About 74% of organizations in the study said tariffs have cut into their profits, and for more than 40%, that loss exceeds 35%. To stay afloat, close to 80% have raised prices, with most increases falling between 5 and 15%.

This kind of pressure is prompting deeper changes. Brands are adjusting their product strategies and revisiting cost structures with the goal of building systems that can absorb shocks without having to pass the entire burden onto customers.

Strengthening Supply Chains with Local and Diversified Sourcing

To reduce exposure and create more stability, sellers are taking a layered approach to procurement management. About 72% are increasing sourcing within closer geographic reach, and 59% are adding secondary suppliers to reduce dependency on any one region. Most are trying more than two methods at once.

Some are shifting manufacturing to countries like Vietnam, Mexico, and India, while others are shortening their inventory pipelines altogether. These moves point to a wider effort to gain more control and prepare for future uncertainty.

Who Is Driving Supply Chain Strategy Changes in Ecommerce

These decisions are being driven by experienced leaders with the authority to act quickly. Most respondents are in their late thirties to early forties, and 74% are the sole decision-makers when it comes to funding. With large teams and established operations, these companies have the infrastructure to act with speed and purpose.

Even among larger businesses, change is not optional. More than half of those with over 100 employees say remaining viable requires major shifts. They are using this moment to realign how their supply chains function and invest in new strategies that support long-term adaptability.

Adapting Ecommerce Supply Chains in a Shifting Tariff Environment

Tariffs are pushing ecommerce brands to take a harder look at how they manage risk and protect margins. For many, this has sparked a move toward supply chains that are more stable, more flexible, and less vulnerable to sudden disruptions.

Operators who want to stay competitive are making room for new supplier relationships, testing regional options, and planning for market movement instead of reacting to it. This research is just the beginning of a larger conversation about how digital retailers can remain adaptable, safeguard earnings, and grow with intention as developing rules and tariffs emerge.

Book Your Free Tariff Assesment Now

Looking to simplify the complexity of tariffs? Our Free Tariff Assessment is designed to give you clear, actionable guidance—no pressure, no obligations. Just expert insight to help you make smarter sourcing decisions and protect your margins.

This is just one of the many ways Clearco supports founders beyond capital. Whether you’re navigating cost pressures or exploring new supply options, our team is here to help you operate with clarity and grow with confidence.