Introduction
As the Trump administration rolls out sweeping new tariffs in 2025, the resale market is undergoing a major transformation. With higher costs on imported goods and increased complexity in international shipping, secondhand platforms and merchants are uniquely positioned to capitalize on the shift. But to succeed, resale merchants need to adapt -- fast.
Here's what's happening, why it matters, and how to future-proof your resale strategy.
What's Changing with Tariffs in 2025
The most significant development is the reintroduction and expansion of tariffs on imports:
- 145% tariffs on Chinese goods
- 10% baseline tariffs on other countries
- Elimination of the de minimis exemption for shipments under $800 from China and Hong Kong
This means all goods -- even secondhand -- now require formal customs entry and are subject to duties. That's especially impactful for resale merchants who import authenticated luxury items from overseas markets like Japan and Europe.
Interestingly, these changes could also help curb the circulation of counterfeit items entering the U.S. resale market. With more scrutiny at the border and fewer low-value shipments slipping through duty-free, counterfeits may face higher barriers to entry.
Why Tariffs Are Fueling Resale Growth
With new apparel and footwear becoming significantly more expensive due to tariffs, consumers are turning to secondhand options. According to recent reports:
- Children's shoes imported from China could jump from $26 to $41
- Running shoes from Vietnam might increase from $155 to $220
- $59% of U.S. consumers say they're more likely to shop resale if retail prices rise due to tariffs
This is already being reflected in behavior:
- Depop app downloads are up 68%
- Poshmark traffic has increased by 28%
- eBay saw a 15% boost in resale activity in Q1 2025
Resale is no longer a niche alternative -- it's becoming a mainstream solution to a policy-driven pricing shift.
Strategic Takeaways for Resale Businesses
If you operate in resale, here's some strategies/advice on how to respond:
- Rethink Sourcing Strategies
Many resale merchants rely on wholesale inventory abroad -- especially from Japan. That model is now exposed to cost volatility and customs delays. Instead, prioritize customer-based sourcing strategies like trade-ins, consignments, and buyouts to localize your inventory pipeline. Additionally, wholesale supplier companies that source inventory for resale from Europe or Japan may be the ones to see the brunt of these tariffs. This could result in higher wholesale prices for resale merchants who continue to acquire inventory through international wholesale channels.
- Prepare for Pricing Volatility
Tariffs on new goods influence resale pricing. As primary market prices rise, resale values often follow. If luxury handbags or sneakers go up in retail price, their secondhand counterparts become more valuable too. Make sure your pricing systems are dynamic and reflect these shifts. At Trendful, we are constantly scraping and updating prices on a weekly basis. We'll be keeping a close eye on how these tariffs are influencing primary market pricing -- and in turn, how that impacts fair market values in resale. We'll check back in with fresh data as these trends develop.
- Educate Your Buyers
Many shoppers still don't understand the cost implications of tariffs on new purchases. Highlight how buying secondhand avoids import duties, unexpected shipping fees, and long delays for consumers.
- Optimize for Cross-Border Complexity
If you still import or sell internationally, work with fulfillment partners who understand the new customs requirements. Tariffs can delay packages, increase return costs, and create friction if not managed proactively.
The Bigger Picture: Resale's Tariff Tailwind
The resale market is projected to reach $56 billion in 2025. Tariffs aren't causing that growth -- but accelerating it. And they're rewarding platforms that are flexible, efficient, and transparent.
The bottom line? Tariffs may hurt traditional retail, but they're a tailwind for secondhand commerce. Resale businesses that embrace dynamic pricing, local sourcing, and logistics resilience will be the ones to thrive.
Need help adapting your pricing and sourcing strategy?
Trendful's Price Database and Catalog API helps resale platforms track fair market value, adjust pricing in real-time, and build smarter workflows across global categories. Visit trendful.com to learn more.
Subscribe to The Resale Stack video podcast for more insights on scaling secondhand commerce in a shifting economy.