Tariff Pressures on Steel & Aluminum: How Hoist Rentals Can Safeguard Project Budgets

Jun 12, 2025Construction News

Rising Costs in Construction—The Tariff Ripple Effect

Recent tariffs on imported steel and aluminum have caused significant price increases across the construction industry. With tariffs reaching up to 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum, the cost of materials has surged, adding financial strain to already tight construction budgets. As a result, contractors are facing higher costs for everything from structural components to equipment procurement—including hoisting systems.

How Tariffs Are Disrupting the Budget

Steel and aluminum are foundational materials for much of the equipment used on modern construction sites, including construction hoists. As tariffs drive up the price of these materials, the cost to purchase new hoist equipment also increases—making it harder for contractors to stay on budget, especially in fixed-price or bid-constrained projects.

Why Renting Hoists Makes Financial Sense

For construction managers looking to manage costs without sacrificing performance or compliance, hoist rentals offer a strategic advantage. Here are several key ways renting from United Hoist can help offset the impact of rising material costs:

1. Reduced Upfront Investment

Purchasing hoist equipment requires a substantial capital outlay—one that’s even higher in today’s tariff-inflated market. Renting eliminates these large upfront costs, allowing construction teams to allocate their budgets more efficiently.

2. Predictable Monthly Costs

Hoist rentals come with transparent, fixed pricing. This makes it easier to plan and manage project budgets, without the risk of sudden price hikes or unexpected repair costs due to equipment failures.

3. No Maintenance or Repair Expenses

Owning equipment means maintaining it. With tariffs also affecting parts and components, repair costs have risen as well. When you rent from United Hoist, maintenance is included—helping you avoid delays and control operating expenses.

4. Immediate Availability Without Supply Chain Delays

Tariffs and global supply chain disruptions have made it harder to get new equipment quickly. Rental hoists are available when you need them—reducing lead times and helping your project stay on schedule.

5. Access to Modern, Compliant Equipment

Our fleet is consistently updated to meet current safety and regulatory standards. Renting ensures you’re using the latest equipment without worrying about long-term ownership, depreciation, or code compliance.

Stay Ahead of Market Volatility with United Hoist

As tariffs and supply chain pressures continue to influence the construction market, flexibility and cost-efficiency are more important than ever. Hoist rentals offer a smart way to protect your bottom line while maintaining high safety and performance standards on-site.

Ready to optimize your budget? Contact United Hoist today to learn more about our rental solutions and how we can help you lift smarter in a high-cost construction environment.

United Hoist has been excellent to work with from the initial pricing phase throughout on site operation.  They have met all the dates needed on site to erect the hoist and have continued to service as scheduled/needed.  Our estimating, management and field staff have been pleased with United Hoist on our projects.

Heath M.

Vice President