UPDATE (AUG 6th, 2025)
Below is an update from our Founder – Ted Simons on the current state of affairs – and how SchoolPHONES® is handling tariffs moving forward…
Tariffs on imported goods have become the single biggest source of uncertainty for American businesses—especially small ones like ours. Because tariff rates can change overnight, we rarely know the actual duty that will be assessed when merchandise reaches U.S. customs. That makes it impossible to price products with confidence until they physically clear the port.Our production decisions—and the costs that come with them—are locked in months before a shipment even sets sail. Only when those goods are fully committed and financially exposed do we learn the final “federal sales tax” that applies. Naturally, that figure affects only the landed cost at the port; it does not touch normal expenses incurred after the freight leaves customs. (We would never pad everyday operating costs by the same percentage as the tariff.)
Going forward, SchoolPHONES will list a separate tariff surcharge on each invoice. The amount will be adjusted shipment-by-shipment because, quite frankly, we cannot predict what the duty will be until the moment a container enters the country.
We regret the inconvenience and budget strain this creates. Our hope is that, as the full economic impact becomes clear—and consumer pressure builds—those responsible for setting these duties will restore the predictable, historically moderate rates that businesses have relied on for decades. In the meantime, know that we will do everything in our power to shield students and educators from these cost fluctuations.
-Ted Simons, Founder
ORIGINAL POST (APR 9th, 2025)
Recent US policy changes will bring substantial tariffs to products imported from overseas, significantly affecting the SchoolPHONES® headphones for schools product line. Effective April 9, 2025, per President Trump’s directive, SchoolPHONES® school headphones now face combined tariffs totaling an unprecedented 104%.
Please see the official whitehouse.gov amendment from April 8th 2025.
Ted Simons, President of SchoolPHONES®, shares the severity of this situation:
“I have been advised by our customs agent that per President Trump’s directive, effective April 09, 2025, SchoolPHONES® production will be subject to the following duties and tariffs: Standard rate of duty: 0%; Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain Tariff: 20%; Reciprocal Tariff: 84% = Total: 104%.
Presently we have limited stock of K6S (<2000 pcs) and a healthy stock of K6D, K6M, BKS, BKD, BKM, and Lab Partner Jr. We will hold prices for all stock on hand. Future inventory pricing will be subject to these EXCESSIVE, REGRESSIVE, PUNITIVE tariffs until and unless these tariffs are rescinded.
Further, I do NOT anticipate further production of K6S in this high tariff environment. We cannot deliver quality headphones at prices schools and parents need under these circumstances.
Regretfully, Ted Simons, President”
Please note: The tariff charges regarding synthetic opioids are being charged as part of general tariffs being placed on our imports. We are actively navigating this situation as it unfolds and trying to find the best solution going forward.
Another Negative Impact on Schools, Parents, and Students
These tariffs represent another significant challenge for schools, teachers, and parents who are already navigating tight budgets and economic pressures. Increased costs of essential educational supplies like headphones for schools directly affect students’ access to high-quality educational resources, further burdening educators who strive to provide the best learning environment possible.
Potential Changes to Product Lines
Unfortunately, as a result of these drastic tariff increases and rising manufacturing costs, we may need to phase out our K6S and BKS model school headphones. This strategic shift aims to maintain affordable pricing on our increasingly popular modular D-Series, which improves on the S-Series by offering replaceable cables and optional microphones, extending the life and versatility of our products.
We are currently seeking input from educators on this critical decision. Your voice matters greatly to us—please reach out and let us know how the current global stage and tariffs are affecting you and your students.
Commitment to Affordability
SchoolPHONES® remains dedicated to maintaining affordability and quality, fighting to keep headphone prices accessible for all educational institutions. However, given the current administration’s tariff trajectory, the outlook for affordable pricing remains uncertain.
Current Stock and Pricing
As of writing, we have fewer than 2,000 units of our popular K6S headphones available. However, we currently hold healthy inventories of K6D, K6M, BKS, BKD, BKM, and Lab Partner Jr. models and will maintain our existing pricing for these units while supplies last.
Our Continued Commitment
SchoolPHONES® continues to prioritize innovation, durability, and affordability. Our headphones, such as the D Series and M-Series models, feature:
- Unbreakable polypropylene headbands
- Durable SpringBoom™ microphones
- High-quality neodymium speakers
- Interchangeable and replaceable cables and cushions for extended longevity and hygiene
We remain dedicated to supporting students, parents, and educators, ensuring minimal disruption to education and technology accessibility despite these challenging circumstances.
For ongoing updates on availability, pricing, or tariff impacts, please follow our knowledge center @ SchoolPHONES.com.
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