How Fitness Equipment Manufacturers Can Navigate Rising Aluminum Costs and Tariffs with a Trusted Extrusion Partner

The Challenge of Sourcing Aluminum in Today’s Market

Aluminum is a critical material in fitness equipment—used in everything from treadmill frames to weight machines. But new tariffs, rising material costs, and supply chain disruptions are creating challenges for manufacturers trying to maintain margins, ensure quality, and stay on schedule.

Rather than relying on a single supplier, manufacturers need a nimble, adaptable extrusion partner with a strong supplier network to pivot when disruptions arise.

At Northern States Metals, we help leading fitness equipment brands streamline aluminum sourcing, reduce costs, and ensure a consistent supply. With custom extrusions, fabrication, and finishing solutions, we help mitigate risk and improve production efficiency.

This article breaks down tariff impacts, sourcing strategies, and how Northern States Metals can provide stability in a volatile market.

The Impact of Tariffs and Rising Aluminum Costs

What’s Happening?

Recent trade policies and tariffs on imported aluminum—particularly from China and other key global suppliers—have led to increased costs and supply constraints for U.S. manufacturers. The combination of:

• Tariffs of up to 10-25% on some aluminum imports

• Geopolitical tensions impacting supply chains

• Rising transportation and energy costs

• Automotive, construction & packaging sectors are driving up aluminum prices.

…has created a perfect storm for procurement teams looking to secure affordable, high-quality aluminum.

How This Affects Fitness Equipment Manufacturers

• Higher raw material costs make it harder to maintain profit margins.

• Longer lead times can delay production schedules and product launches.

• Supplier uncertainty makes it riskier to rely on a single aluminum source.

• Passing costs to customers may not be feasible in a competitive fitness market.

The solution? Partnering with an extrusion expert like Northern States Metals who can pivot when the market shifts.

Why a Trusted Extrusion Partner is Critical

Rather than relying on a single supplier or scrambling when disruptions occur, manufacturers can reduce risk and improve supply chain flexibility by working with an extrusion partner who has a diverse, pre-vetted network of aluminum suppliers. Here’s how this approach helps:

1. Ensuring a Consistent Supply

Northern States Metals has multiple sources to draw from, ensuring you aren’t left without materials when a supplier is hit with delays, capacity issues, or tariff restrictions.

• Faster lead times by switching between multiple extrusion facilities

• Less exposure to regional trade disruptions

• Continuity in material quality and specifications

2. Adapting to Pricing Fluctuations

With tariffs and material costs shifting, locking into a single supplier can be a liability. Our established supplier network allows us to:

• Source aluminum at the best available price

• Avoid tariff-heavy suppliers when possible

• Offer pricing stability through diversified sourcing

3. Streamlining Logistics & Reducing Costs

Working with Northern States Metals means your supply chain stays efficient and cost-effective, even when market conditions change. Benefits include:

• Optimized shipping routes to reduce freight costs

• Faster access to domestic suppliers to avoid tariff delays

• Lower risk of stockouts or supply interruptions

Sourcing Strategies: What Procurement Teams Should Consider

Navigating rising aluminum costs requires a proactive approach to supplier relationships. Here’s how fitness equipment manufacturers can stay ahead:

1. Diversify Your Supplier Base

Relying on a single supplier or region makes manufacturers vulnerable to market shifts. Northern States Metals has already done the work of building a network of trusted suppliers, allowing you to adapt without delay.

2. Explore Recycled and Sustainable Aluminum

Using recycled aluminum not only reduces costs but also aligns with sustainability trends in the fitness industry. Some governments and organizations offer incentives for using eco-friendly materials.

3. Lock in Long-Term Contracts

To hedge against price fluctuations, manufacturers can negotiate long-term contracts with aluminum suppliers. Our team helps businesses secure the best terms for stable pricing and supply.

4. Work with a Trusted Extrusion Partner

Choosing a nimble extrusion partner like Northern States Metals means you aren’t locked into a single supplier. We offer:

• Pre-vetted supplier relationships to ensure continuity

• Flexible sourcing strategies to avoid disruptions

• Access to multiple domestic and international suppliers

• Agility to adapt designs and processes when market conditions shift

Conclusion: Strengthening Your Competitive Edge

Rising aluminum costs and tariffs don’t have to slow down your business. By working with a trusted extrusion partner like Northern States Metals, fitness equipment manufacturers can stay competitive, reduce costs, and avoid supply chain headaches.

If you're looking for a strategic aluminum extrusion partner who can adapt to market challenges and help secure your supply chain, reach out to us today. Our team specializes in helping manufacturers navigate sourcing challenges, streamline production, and deliver high-quality fitness equipment without disruption.

Learn more about how Northern States Metals supports top fitness equipment brands with reliable, cost-effective aluminum extrusions.