Tariff shocks can feel like a sudden derailment for businesses, particularly for DTC brands and entrepreneurs navigating already-tight margins. Last week, we discussed the disruptive impact of tariffs on global supply chains, emphasizing their ability to shake even the most resilient businesses. This week, we pivot to solutions—because survival isn’t just about withstanding shocks; it’s about adapting strategically.
This blog focuses on actionable strategies to shield your brand from tariff volatility through two key levers: offshore talent and strategic operations planning. By integrating smarter hiring practices and optimizing your operational framework, you can turn external disruptions into opportunities for growth while protecting your brand’s bottom line.
Offshore Talent as a Stability Lever for the Tariff Situation
One of the most efficient ways to mitigate costs amidst tariff instability is by leveraging offshore talent. Done strategically, offshoring allows brands to manage payroll pressures, maintain competitive pricing, and even unlock new capabilities—all without sacrificing quality or output.
Why Offshore Talent Works
- Reduce Payroll Pressure Without Sacrificing Capability
Offshore hiring enables you to access highly skilled professionals at a fraction of local labor costs, saving up to 50-80% on salaries. For instance, hiring remote supply chain managers or finance professionals from countries like the Philippines means you get expertise without stretching your budget.
- Quickly Fill Specialist Roles
From logistics and marketing to finance, offshore talent pools give you access to specialists you might struggle to find locally. These professionals are not just cost-efficient—they often bring unique global perspectives that can bolster innovation in your business.
Real-Life Inspiration
Take Wondery Outdoors, for example. The company transitioned their operational and customer support teams offshore during a tariff upswing, effectively maintaining smooth operations while reducing payroll by 65%. Similarly, a client used offshore marketing experts to optimize ad spend, sustaining growth without inflating costs.
Other success stories—like Grateful Fred, Caley Golf, and Modern Fuel—showcase how offshore talent can future-proof businesses. From creating dynamic supply chain solutions to optimizing e-commerce listings, these brands have thrived by tapping into global expertise.
Strategic Operations to Build Resilience During Tariff-Related Struggles
While offshore talent can soften the blow of tariff-related cost increases, operational resilience is equally critical. How your brand organizes its supply chain, shipping, and internal processes determines its ability to weather disruptions effectively.
Key Strategies to Optimize Operations
1. Diversify your Supplier Base
Overreliance on a single supplier or region can be risky, particularly when tariffs inflate costs overnight. Instead, consider a mix of domestic and international suppliers. For example, Move helps brands like yours identify reliable suppliers from multiple regions, ensuring consistent inventory at competitive prices.
2. Rethink Shipping and Logistics Strategies
Tariff increases usually translate into higher shipping costs. Reevaluating shipping methods, such as leveraging consolidated shipments or partnering with carriers that offer dynamic pricing—can help offset these changes. Agile logistics platforms also allow businesses to pivot routes efficiently to save costs.
3. Improve Internal Systems for Flexibility
Brands that react quickly are the ones that thrive. By investing in tools that provide real-time insights into inventory, sales, and market shifts, you create systems that allow for prompt decision-making. Platforms like Unboxed Weekly offer scalable solutions designed for dynamic e-commerce brands.
Resource Hub to Support Your Tariff Strategy
To further bolster your resilience against tariff volatility, here are some expert solutions to consider:
- Offshore-specific Solutions
Companies like More Staffing provide a streamlined process to recruit, onboard, and coach offshore talent. The result? Talented hires who are fully integrated into your brand culture within weeks.
- Supply Chain Optimization with Move
Move provides tailored strategies to help brands diversify supply chains and refine their logistics processes. Their proven expertise enables businesses to gain better control over inventory and costs.
Closing Thought: Chart Your Path to Stability
Successfully navigating tariff shocks is about transforming your business into a resilient, adaptable operation. Offshoring and strategic operations are not just survival tactics—they’re growth enablers. By blending these approaches, you can safeguard your brand while unlocking new opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
If you’re ready to take your resilience strategy to the next level, don’t stop here. Download our DTC Ops Checklist or tune in to the latest episode of the Move Podcast, where experts discuss actionable insights on supply chain and hiring strategies for evolving market dynamics.
Together, let’s turn volatility into opportunity.
