As the United States continues to talk tariffs amid a global supply chain still recovering from the pandemic, ecommerce brands are beginning to rethink production. The US manufacturing sector grew in January for the first time since 2022. Domestic production is becoming more feasible in light of new tariffs and already uncertain shipping times, and ecommerce brands are exploring new possibilities. 

Strategic sourcing from countries who have free-trade agreements with the United States (such as Korea or Chile) can help, but don’t overlook a ‘made in America’ solution. American factories are producing high quality goods at competitive rates, making it a good time to rethink your brand’s supply chain. 

Why ecommerce brands should choose domestic suppliers 

Tariffs have long been a challenge for businesses importing from overseas. In 2018, the US announced steep tariffs on products including textiles, fabrics, or electronics. With recent news suggesting that these tariffs could increase, importing goods from overseas no longer offers the cost savings it once did. 

Bringing production closer to home has a number of benefits beyond tariffs: faster shipments and shorter turnarounds, better quality control, the ‘made in the USA’ brand, stable costs. Being able to take a last minute order for a department store might not be the top priority for an ecommerce brand, but capturing a viral surge in popularity certainly would be. 

Top U.S. Manufacturers for Key ecommerce Categories

If you’re looking for a local supplier, start with your public library – ReferenceUSA (Data Axle) is a free resource available with only your library card. Data Axle is a free way for brands to access a directory of over 180 million US business records, including a directory of relevant suppliers (Yellowpages still works, too, as does Facebook in early stages – just ask Cecil and Lou!). 

In addition, sites like Makers Row help to find a perfect supplier fit. Makers Row offers a search tool to browse through a network of top factories and manufacturers that meet your location or industry needs. Similarly, TradeHolding is a global site with a US search filter, and allows businesses to post products they hope to manufacture to connect with potential suppliers. 

ThomasNet is an online directory of suppliers for product sourcing in the US and Canada. The Thomas Registers (“big green books”) were the original sourcing guide for the American industrial age – Thomas Registers have been listing industrial product suppliers since the late 1800s. 

Using these resources, you can find suppliers based in the USA that will meet your industry needs. For example:

US Manufacturing for Apparel & Textiles

• Delaware Valley fabrics and felts
• Royal Apparel New York sustainable or organic fabrics, fashion clothing
• Landes bags, totes, and duffels 

US Manufacturing for Home Goods and Furniture 

• Infinity Retail Services custom manufacturer of wooden furniture
• Tri-State Fabricators metal furniture created and assembled from stainless steel or aluminum 
• Plastic Design Inc custom manufacturer of plastic or acrylic furniture, custom molds, bumpers, or lab supplies

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US Manufacturing for Beauty, Health and Wellness

• Tropical Labs is a full scale contract and private label manufacturer of cosmetic items, including face care, body care, body oils, and more
• InSpec Solutions is a contract manufacturer and formulator of health and wellness products like sunscreen, wipes, and sanitizer
• AMR Labs is a contract manufacturer for health and beauty products, including hair care, men’s care, baby products, and cosmetics. They also offer assembly, including blister packs, vacuum seals, or shrink wrap. 

Manufacturing companies listed above are just a few examples of suppliers you can find using supplier registries – there are hundreds of suppliers that may be a potential fit. 

How to Transition to US Manufacturing

Switching your team’s production from overseas to a local unit doesn’t need to be all-or-nothing. Starting off with high-margin products or just best-sellers can offer some wiggle room for US sellers looking to switch. Small-scale production runs (and product drops), prototypes, and domestic contract suppliers with a low minimum order can all help to test the waters. In addition, many US states offer tax breaks for businesses that invest in their state and create jobs. By combining state incentives with modern technologies to automate workflows, you may find it affordable to say ‘made in the USA’!