Trump’s Tariff Plan Could Cost U.S. Households $3,800: Experts Warn Consumers To Stock Up Now
As President Donald Trump renews his push for sweeping tariffs on foreign imports, economists are sounding the alarm: everyday Americans could soon feel the impact where it hurts most — their wallets.
A new analysis from The Budget Lab at Yale University estimates that the proposed tariffs could slash $3,800 in annual purchasing power from the average U.S. household. While the exact details of Trump’s plan remain fluid, early projections suggest broad-based import taxes that would drive up prices on thousands of consumer goods.
“This is essentially a hidden tax on the middle class,” said George Carrillo, CEO of the Hispanic Construction Council. “Tariffs hit supply chains fast, and retailers will either raise prices or shrink product offerings — either way, the customer pays.”
What’s the Plan?
Trump has floated replacing income taxes with an all-tariff system — a radical idea with sweeping consequences. While the idea may resonate with voters looking to cut taxes, experts warn it could trigger widespread inflation, especially on everyday items imported from Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
While the plan hasn’t been officially adopted by Congress or implemented via executive action, many retailers and wholesalers are already bracing for impact.
Stock Up Now, Experts Say
Entrepreneur and billionaire Mark Cuban recently took to the decentralized social platform Bluesky to offer a simple strategy: buy now, save later. Cuban urged consumers to load up on non-perishable essentials before retailers pass on the increased costs.
“Even items made in the U.S. might see price hikes,” Cuban warned, “because companies will use tariffs as a pricing trigger — whether it applies directly or not.”
Carrillo agrees. “Buy now and avoid the markup,” he said.
Items To Consider Stockpiling
If you’ve got room in your pantry or garage, here are some of the best candidates to buy before price increases hit:
-
Toothpaste
Shelf life: ~2 years.
Cuban flagged toothpaste as an easy, non-perishable way to lock in current prices. -
Soap
Both liquid and bar soap can last several years if stored properly. -
Laundry Detergent
Liquid detergents typically last 12–18 months unopened, making them a safe bet for bulk buying. -
Over-the-Counter Medicines
Think pain relievers, cold medicine, allergy pills. While pharmaceuticals were not targeted in the April 2 tariff announcement, packaging and shipping costs could drive prices up. -
Toilet Paper
Toilet paper doesn’t expire and is vulnerable to timber tariffs or supply chain shifts. But remember: don’t panic-buy.
“Everyone remembers the toilet paper chaos of 2020,” Carrillo said. “Be smart, not selfish.”
Balance Preparedness With Sanity
Experts stress there’s a difference between smart planning and fear-driven hoarding.
“Buy one extra item each trip — that’s reasonable,” said Carrillo. “Pooling resources with friends or neighbors is even smarter. Share the cost, share the storage.”
Final Thoughts
While the full economic impact of Trump’s tariff plan remains to be seen, the advice from experts is clear: prepare now to protect your budget later. From soap to aspirin, a few strategic purchases today could save you hundreds over the next year.
Still, economists warn that tariffs are not just a short-term pricing issue — they reshape supply chains, distort markets, and disproportionately impact lower- and middle-income households.
“If tariffs are implemented across the board,” said Yale’s report, “we could see a ripple effect that extends far beyond retail — from housing materials to healthcare and food.”
For now, it’s business as usual. But if history is any indicator, the price of waiting could be steep.
