News
May 8, 2025
If you’re a US builder sourcing timber frames or other wood products from Canada, you may be concerned about the recent headlines on new tariffs and trade tensions. The good news: our Canadian-manufactured, pre-finished timber frames are exempt from the latest US tariffs and have always been exempt, thanks to the USMCA trade agreement. Here’s what that means for your business.
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is the trade deal that replaced NAFTA. It was designed to keep trade flowing smoothly between the three countries by eliminating most tariffs for goods that meet specific rules of origin.
In early 2025, the US announced new 25% tariffs on many imports, but USMCA-compliant goods-including most wood products-remain tariff-free. This means that if products are manufactured in Canada and meet the agreement’s requirements, they are not affected by these new tariffs.
Our timber frames are classified under HTS code 9406 (“Prefabricated Buildings”) and code 4418 (“Builders’ joinery and carpentry of wood”). According to the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the USMCA agreement, these products are eligible for duty-free entry into the US when manufactured in Canada and accompanied by a USMCA Certificate of Origin. For more information, see the US International Trade Commission’s HTS page.
Buying a Canadian timber frame from Canadian Timberframes means you get quality products, no surprise tariffs, and smooth cross-border delivery. We handle all the paperwork, so you can focus on building.
Have more questions about USMCA, tariffs, or sourcing timber frames from Canada? Contact us today - we’re happy to help!
Q: Are Canadian wood products still subject to US tariffs in 2025?
A: Most Canadian wood products, including timber frames, glulams and CLT panels, are exempt from the new US tariffs if they are USMCA-compliant. We ensure all our products meet these requirements, so you don’t pay additional tariffs.
Q: What documentation do I need to claim the tariff exemption?
A: You need a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin from your Canadian supplier. We include this automatically with every order, so you don’t need to take any action. Your imports will be duty-free without additional paperwork or steps required from you.
Q: Are there any duties at all on Canadian wood?
A: While the new 25% tariffs do not apply to USMCA-compliant wood products, some softwood lumber imports remain subject to a separate duty (currently 14.54%), which is unrelated to the new tariffs. However, many pre-finished wood products and timber frames are covered by the exemption.
Q: Why is it beneficial to buy pre-finished, prefabricated timber frames?
A: Pre-finished and prefabricated timber frames that are ready for installation can be classified under HTS code 9406 (“Prefabricated buildings”). When these products are manufactured in Canada, meet USMCA requirements, and are properly documented, they are duty-free and not subject to the separate softwood lumber duty that applies to raw or less-processed wood. This means US buyers are exempt from both new tariffs and the softwood lumber duty by choosing prefabricated, pre-finished timber frames.
Q: How can I be sure my Canadian supplier is compliant?
A: Ask for a USMCA Certificate of Origin with your shipment. We automatically include this, so you can buy with confidence.
Q: Will the tariff exemption last?
A: The USMCA is a binding trade agreement, but trade policies can change. We stay up to date and monitor our clients’ issues closely.
If you’re a US builder sourcing timber frames or other wood products from Canada, you may be concerned about the recent headlines on new tariffs and trade tensions. The good news: our Canadian-manufactured, pre-finished timber frames are exempt from the latest US tariffs and have always been exempt, thanks to the USMCA trade agreement.
Read more
Canadian Timberframes excelled by winning the gold medal in the Golden Two-Four race, showcasing our dedication to excellence and superior craftsmanship.
Read more
Canadian Timberframes offers endless possibilities with our custom timber frame designs. Learn how we can bring your vision to life.
Read more
