How Tariffs Are Affecting the Massage Therapy Profession
Updated - October 1, 2025
As tariffs continue to evolve, their effects are now more concrete for the general public. Here’s where things currently stand and what you can do to adapt as a massage therapy practitioner.
Have you or your practive been affected by tariffs? Fill out our brief survery to share your perspective.
What are Tariffs?
A tariff is a tax imposed on imported goods, typically paid by the importing business to its home country's government. While importers pay the tariff, the added cost often gets passed on to consumers through higher prices. For massage therapists, this can affect the cost of equipment, supplies, and even the availability of certain products.
What’s Changed in the Past Few Months
- New Baseline Tariffs on Imports
In 2025, the U.S. introduced a universal “reciprocal” tariff of 10% on nearly all imports, stacked on top of any existing duties. Additional tariffs ranging from 11% to 50% are applied to specific countries or product categories. - Exceptions for Certain Countries and Deals
Some trade agreements have reduced rates. For example, tariffs on autos and auto parts from the EU were lowered to 15% as of August 1, 2025. However, most massage equipment and consumables do not fall under these deals. - Higher Costs for Key Materials
Tariffs remain especially high on steel, aluminum, copper, and many electronics — materials used in massage chairs, tables, frames, and electronic tools. In some cases, steel and aluminum tariffs have doubled to 50%. - End of Duty-Free Small Shipments (De Minimis Rule)
In the past, small orders under $800 could often enter the U.S. duty-free. That rule has now been suspended for China and Hong Kong (since May 2025) and eliminated for all countries as of August 29, 2025. Even sample or small-quantity orders now face duties or postal fees ($80–$200 during the transition).
What Tariffs Could Mean for Massage Therapy Practitioners
- Equipment Costs Could Rise
Massage chairs (especially electronic or zero-gravity models), metal-framed tables, and tools with imported components are likely to become more expensive due to higher input costs. - Supply Chain Delays
More paperwork, customs checks, and rerouting to avoid high-tariff countries can mean longer lead times or backorders. - Profit Margins on Products Could Be Squeezed
Consumables like lotions, oils, towels, and accessories often operate on thin margins. Even small cost increases may force suppliers to raise prices or absorb losses. - Consider Price Adjustments
Over time, as you replace equipment or restock supplies, higher costs may become unavoidable. Massage therapists may need to eventually need to adjust pricing within their practices. - Some Relief Through Exemptions and Domestic Sourcing
Where possible, sourcing products from U.S. suppliers or tariff-exempt countries may help. However, exemptions are limited and often temporary.
Minimizing the Impact of Tariffs on Your Practice
- Focus on Your Budget
Reevaluate and reallocate funds to prepare for higher product costs. Setting aside contingency funds can soften unexpected expenses. - Source Products Strategically
Look for U.S. suppliers or alternative sourcing countries with lower tariff rates. While this is not always possible, this can reduce exposure. - Plan Ahead
Bulk purchases may reduce costs per unit and avoid repeated customs fees. Staying informed on tariff changes allows you to adjust before costs hit.
AMTA Commitment
AMTA remains committed to supporting massage therapists across the country and will continue to provide updates as trade policies evolve.
Share Your Experience
Have tariffs affected your practice or your supply chain? We encourage you to share your experiences with us through this survey.