Ready or not, here they come, you can’t hide. Tariffs are back, and this time, your wallet is the target.
On April 2, the U.S. is expected to announce a sweeping expansion of sector-specific tariffs, a move that could send the cost of everyday goods soaring just as American consumers are beginning to breathe a little easier on inflation.
From electronics to appliances, toys to textiles, the next round of tariffs — already being teased as (a second) “Liberation Day” by President Trump — may sound patriotic, but the economic math is panning out to be anything but.
Let’s be clear: tariffs are taxes. While rhetoric might pitch them as a penalty for foreign manufacturers, in practice, the added cost almost always gets passed down to you and me.
According to a 2019 study from the National Bureau of Economic Research, the full cost of tariffs imposed during the Trump administration was passed on to U.S. importers and consumers — with no meaningful reduction in foreign export prices.
We’re already seeing the warning signs. Walmart and Target have each issued statements about rising prices on groceries and general merchandise if tariffs take effect.
And if 2018 is any guide, expect this new wave to hit hard: Prices on household appliances like washing machines jumped 12% after tariffs kicked in during the last trade war, according to Consumer Reports.
Even sectors that aren’t directly targeted tend to feel the squeeze. Manufacturers move production to tariff-free countries, but with supply chains in flux, costs still climb — and often, quality slips. Inflation has slowed in recent months, but this looming policy shift threatens to reheat prices across categories.
What to Buy Before the Price Hikes Hit
That’s why now — during the Amazon Big Spring Sale — is the smartest time to make those big-ticket purchases you’ve been putting off. Amazon is currently running the best sale of the season through March 31, and some of the items seeing the steepest discounts today may be the most expensive come May. We’re talking about smart TVs, headphones, routers, luggage, refrigerators, and outdoor furniture. Anything with parts or production rooted in China or Mexico could be on the list.
While the full details of the April 2 rollout haven’t been released, the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg both report the administration is eyeing expansion in consumer-facing categories — meaning this isn’t a drill. It’s a deadline.
So if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your tech, refreshing your kitchen, or grabbing a few early gifts ahead of the summer, this is the week to strike.
Because this is what we love to do (and what we’re pretty good at, I might add), below, we’ve rounded up the 10 smartest categories to shop now before prices spike.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Apple’s AirPods Max, Sony’s WH-1000XM5, and Bose QuietComforts all share a manufacturing origin: China. That makes them likely targets in a new tariff rollout. When a similar policy was enacted in 2019, headphone prices climbed nearly 10%. With audio tech already seeing markdowns ahead of travel and festival season, there’s no better time to lock in premium sound at pre-tariff prices. Shop more Amazon Big Sprig Sale headphone deals.
Wi-Fi Routers and Mesh Systems
TP-Link, Netgear, and Amazon-owned Eero routers depend on Chinese and Taiwanese production lines. If consumer electronics get hit again, connectivity hardware will likely be part of the fallout. Whether you’re working from home or streaming everything, investing in stable, high-speed internet gear now is a smart and timely move. Shop the Baseus Magsafe Portable Charger deal during the Amazon Big Spring Sale.
Smart TVs
During the last major round of tariffs, smart TVs saw price hikes of up to 20%. TCL and Hisense are especially exposed, but even brands like Samsung and LG source panels and chips from Asia. With March Madness and spring viewing around the corner, big screens are already on sale — waiting could mean paying more for less. Shop more Amazon Big Spring Sale TV deals.
Luggage Sets
If travel’s on your agenda, don’t wait to upgrade your suitcase. It’s likely that over 90% of luggage sold in the U.S. is imported from countries now under tariff consideration. Brands like Samsonite, Rockland, and Amazon Basics rely on Chinese and Vietnamese factories. Once tariffs hit, sticker prices will follow — and quality options may disappear fast. Shop more Amazon Big Spring Sale luggage deals.
Kitchen Appliances
Small appliances like air fryers, stand mixers, and espresso machines often rely on parts sourced from China, even when final assembly is done elsewhere. If tariffs affect electronics and steel simultaneously, expect a double whammy on kitchen gadgets. Right now, Amazon’s sale features major markdowns — before April 2 sends costs simmering upward. Shop more chef-selected Amazon Big Spring Sale kitchen deals.
Major Home Appliances
Washing machines and refrigerators were some of the first products to see price hikes during the 2018 tariff surge, with tariffs ranging from 20% to 50%. Whirlpool admitted to $100+ increases per unit. LG and Samsung still rely heavily on imported parts. With spring renovations underway, this sale window could be your last chance to buy before prices surge.
Even when companies like LG and Samsung moved some production stateside in response to tariffs — opening U.S. plants in Tennessee and South Carolina, respectively — the shift didn’t fully shield consumers from price hikes. That’s because many key components, including motors and control boards, are still sourced from abroad.
As the Wall Street Journal reported, Samsung continues to import many of the parts used at its South Carolina plant from South Korea and other countries. So even with “Made in America” assembly, the global supply chain remains vulnerable to added costs — costs that often end up baked into the retail price. Shop Amazon Big Spring Sale deals from Breville.
Outdoor Furniture
Most patio furniture — frames, fabrics, cushions — is made or assembled overseas. In 2018, this category saw a 17% price hike after new tariffs took effect. Whether you’re prepping for pool season or finally furnishing your balcony, outdoor sets are an especially vulnerable category you’ll want to buy early. Shop the best exclusive Amazon Big Spring Sale deals for Prime members.
Tools and Home Improvement Gear
Drills, saws, sanders — if it’s in your garage, it probably has parts made in Mexico or China. DEWALT, Makita, and Bosch all rely on international components. As with past tariff hikes, cordless power tools could jump nearly 10% in cost. Consider this your green light to grab those upgrades before DIY season ramps up. Shop more Amazon Big Spring Sale DEWALT deals.
Toys and Games
LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels, Nerf — all produced outside the U.S., and all likely to get pricier post-April 2. During the last tariff cycle, toy prices climbed over 7% in one holiday season. With birthdays, graduations, and spring holidays ahead, locking in gifts now could save you serious cash later. Shop more Amazon Big Spring Sale toy deals.
Footwear and Apparel Basics
Over 70% of footwear and 40% of clothing in the U.S. is imported from China. That includes sneakers, jeans, activewear, and essentials from GAP, Adidas, Levi’s, and more. If tariffs land here again, prices on everyday staples will jump. Buying basics now — when stock is high and prices are low — is the smartest wardrobe refresh move you can make. Shop more Amazon Big Spring Sale deals from Levi’s and adidas.
TL;DR: If you’ve been putting off a purchase, this is your sign. Prices may rise. If history shows us anything, corporations will take this chance to raise prices regardless. Stocks may dip again and again. And after April 2, today’s deals may look like yesterday’s news. Buy smart, buy early — and avoid paying for politics at checkout.
Your Amazon Big Spring Sale FAQs, answered
What is Amazon’s Big Spring Sale?
The Big Spring Sale is an Amazon-hosted seasonal sale event aimed at popular products to shop for spring. It’s similar to Amazon Prime Day, offering a wide range of deals and discounts on various products, spanning the final week of March.
How long does the Big Spring Sale last?
Shoppers have 7 days to take advantage of discounts. This sale runs a full week, beginning at 12 a.m. PT on Tuesday, March 25, through 11:59 p.m. PT on Monday, March 31.
When does the Big Spring Sale end?
The Big Spring Sale ends March 31 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time, so east-coasters have until about 3 a.m. on April 1 their time to shop the deals.
Do you have to have Amazon Prime to shop the Big Spring Sale?
Unlike Prime Day, the Spring Sale is open to all Amazon shoppers. However, Prime members will enjoy exclusive deals and early access to certain promotions. Interested shoppers can grab a 30-day free trial to try Prime, and its many benefits, with no strings attached.
What are the best Big Spring Sale deals?
From reporting on Amazon sales throughout the years, we can tell you for certain that it’s the ideal period to upgrade your outdoor furniture, restock spring cleaning supplies, find new spring fashion pieces and comb through the massive catalog of Amazon best-sellers.
When is the next Prime Day?
Already wondering when the next Amazon Prime Day is? Prime Day takes place in July each year. While Amazon hasn’t confirmed the dates for Prime Day 2025, it’s safe to assume it will take place in mid-July — similar to previous years.
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For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
