Tariffs & Tech Costs: What It Means for Your School—and How to Protect Your Budget

04.09.2025

Matt Morelli

Have you noticed your school’s device costs creeping up lately? You’re not alone. Between trade tensions and new tariffs, the price of both new devices and repair parts has skyrocketed. Schools across the country are feeling the impact—sometimes halfway through an order—leaving them scrambling to cover unexpected increased costs.

Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what you can do about it.

Image: District administrator counting repair costs over a dismantled laptop.

Why Are Device and Repair Costs Increasing?

Trade disputes and tariffs can seem like a world away from the classroom, but they directly affect the price of the technology we rely on every day. Those added taxes on imported goods often translate to sudden jumps in the cost of devices and parts. One week you might have a solid estimate for your next device shipment, and the next, you’re facing budget-busting price hikes before your order even ships.

The Real-World Impact for Schools

New Devices at Unexpected Prices
You’ve budgeted for a batch of new laptops or tablets, but suddenly your supplier hits you with a surcharge. Now you’re deciding whether to dip into funds meant for something else—like software licenses or extracurricular programs.
Repairs Become Less Predictable
Once devices are in the hands of students, accidents happen. Normally, replacing a cracked screen or faulty battery is manageable. But if the cost of those parts has doubled since you last checked, you could be forced to make tough choices between essential repairs and other important items in your budget.
Unplanned Budget Strains
When these costs spike without warning, schools can get stuck moving money around just to keep everything running. It’s stressful, time-consuming, and can take the focus off what really matters—teaching and learning.

A Smart Way to Protect Your District

You can’t always predict global trade disputes or changing tariffs. But you can lock in your costs with School Device Coverage (SDC). By insuring your devices, you know exactly what you’ll pay—no matter what’s happening in the world.

How it works:

Predictable Costs: Your repair rates stay the same, even if parts or labor go up.
Straightforward Claims: SDC’s quick claims process keeps your focus on students, not paperwork.
Peace of Mind: With your device fleet protected, sudden price hikes won’t blindside your budget.

Don’t Let Global Economics Disrupt Your Classroom

When tariffs drive up tech costs, your school deserves a way to stay in control. Locking in your 1:1 learning program expenses with SDC is an easy, proactive step to ensure stable budgeting all year long—so you can focus on delivering the best education possible, without the financial surprises.

Ready to safeguard your district? Contact School Device Coverage today to learn more. Together, we’ll keep your tech costs steady, no matter what happens in the global economy.