As of September 8, 2026, the Canadian government is implementing a new round of tariffs on a range of goods originating from the United States.  Unfortunately, the manufacturing sector is hit pretty hard with up to 50% tariffs on not just Steel, Stainless Steel and Aluminum in general, but also some very specific product groups.

Key Product Categories Hardest Hit

  • Steel & Stainless Steel Hardware: Industrial hinges, cold-rolled steel drawer slides, and heavy-duty latches face substantial duty increases tied to primary metal trade classifications.
  • Aluminum Components: Extruded aluminum hinges, handles, and structural mounting hardware are directly targeted by metal derivative surtaxes.
  • Precision Mechanical Assemblies: Complex lock sets, rotary latches, and multi-material telescoping slides carry shifting base-metal tariff rates.
  • Industrial Polymer & Composite Fittings: Molded plastic handles, knobs, and specialized rubber sealing extrusions (EPDM gaskets) fall under separate chemical and synthetic chapters subject to distinct duty adjustments.

To review a complete breakdown of affected HS codes and tariff rates, consult the official Government of Canada List of Products Subject to Counter-Tariffs.

More Than Just Sourcing: Practical Supply Chain Solutions

Navigating customs duties is only half the battle. Steeves Agencies offers practical, flexible supply chain programs to protect your cash flow and keep production lines humming:

  • Blanket Orders & Scheduled Releases: Lock in volume pricing and secure inventory without tying up capital or cluttering shop floor space. Steeves holds stock in Western Canada and ships on your schedule.
  • Volume Pricing Discounts: Take advantage of bulk rates even on complex, multi-part hardware packages.
  • Engineering & Design Support: Get hands-on component selection help, 2D/3D CAD support, and direct factory engineering assistance when custom solutions are required.
  • No (or Low) Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Order what is actually needed—whether it’s a single replacement latch or thousands of production units. 
  • Smart, Local Shipping Solutions: Practical advice designed to minimize transit time and eliminate border delays.

Personalized Service for Canadian Manufacturers

At Steeves Agencies, reputation is built on personal relationships, deep technical expertise, and a steadfast commitment to making component sourcing hassle-free. For over 40 years, our family-owned Canadian business has helped local original equipment manufacturers navigate complex supply chain challenges—from tariff fluctuations to unexpected lead times—by serving as a true technical partner rather than just a distributor. Our experienced, Winnipeg-based technical sales team works closely with your engineering and procurement teams to select optimal hardware, provide hands-on design support, and deliver customized inventory management solutions that protect your cash flow and keep your production lines running smoothly.

Ready to protect your production line from border friction?

Contact the Steeves Agencies team today or explore our wide range of products at HingesAndLatches.com.