UNFREAKINGCONSTITIONAL
Tariffs ruled ¨unfreakingconstitutional’ - Here is what antique dealers need to know.
Breaking News: A U.S. appeals court has effectively ruled the global tariffs “Unfreakingconstitutional.” And while no one likes to say “I told you so”… I knew it! The judges declared these sweeping tariffs illegal.
What Just Happened (in Plain English)
The court essentially said: You can’t just impose global tariffs without following the proper process. The Constitution protects that process.
But they also said: We’ll leave them in place for now. Why? Because unraveling them instantly could create more chaos than keeping them.
According to SKY News, the U.S. Treasury has already collected $142 billion in tariff revenue as of July. Refunding those payments could deliver a serious financial blow. Translation: tariffs are “illegal,” but you’ll still be paying them - at least until October 14, 2025.
Why Antiques Dealers Should Care
If the Supreme Court Upholds the Ruling (Tariffs = Illegal)
Refunds are possible. Antique importers could claim back duties paid.
If the Supreme Court Overturns (Tariffs = Stay Legal)
Antiques, previously exempt, would continue bearing costs as if they were “ordinary furniture.”
Pressure on margins. Small dealers will feel the pinch hardest. You’ll need to rework your margins to account for added expenses. Talk to an expert about how to do this. (SEE MY SPECIAL OFFER BELOW)
Practical Next-Step Information Antique Dealers Need
1. Refund Mechanics (If Tariffs Are Struck Down)
Who qualifies? Importers of record (you or your customs broker).
What documentation will you need? Proof of tariff payments tied to HS codes, invoices, and entry summaries (CBP Form 7501).
How long could refunds take? Historically, these processes drag; even if refunds are granted, reimbursements may take months or years.
2. Customs Broker Strategy
Talk to your broker and find out how they’re preparing for refund claims and what records to keep.
Double-check your HS code classifications. Misclassified codes may block refunds.
3. Timing + Risk
Tariffs remain in place until at least October 14, 2025.
Consider delaying major shipments until after that date.
On the flip side: right now is also a buying opportunity. European dealers know their audience is smaller and are working with us to move inventory.
We have free storage in place in many countries so this is an opportunity for a savvy buyer.
4. Long-Term Outlook
Even if this specific tariff is struck down, tariff risk is here to stay. You need to build resilience: diversify sourcing, split inventory, and avoid relying on one pipeline. Navigating tariffs forces you to refine systems, pricing, and logistics. These sharpened skills will serve you long after the tariffs are gone.
What You Should Do Now
Keep Records. Track every duty paid. If refunds come, you’ll need proof.
Communicate Calmly. Let your clients know you’re monitoring developments and will adjust pricing if necessary.
Strategize Sourcing. Explore hybrid models: EU + U.S. inventory, shared containers, nimble buying via networks like the Private Buyers Club.
Don’t Panic. The antiques trade is built on resilience. Tariffs won’t stop it.
As antiques dealers, we play the long game. We’ve survived worse. Take notes. Stay nimble. Keep Calm and Keep Antiquing.
In the Business of Antiques the first rule of survival is knowing when to act, and when to wait. Strategy is Everything.
Special Offer: Business Coaching for Antique Dealers
For a limited time, I’m offering 6 hours of coaching sessions for €1,500 — a smaller package than our usual 10- or 20-session programs designed for antique dealers who need immediate help to:
📧 Email toma@antiquesdiva.com or WhatsApp +39 388 347 6032 to reserve your spot.
Payment in full secures your place (€1,500 to toma@antiquesdiva.com via QR code).
First come, first serve.
XOXO,
Toma
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