Tariff-driven supply chain disruptions are back. Is your maintenance storeroom ready? Ensuring that your business has the spares needed to keep the plant running is the number-one job of the parts department. Optimizing stock levels and reducing working capital requirements run a close second.  

When tariffs affect lead times and costs, they throw even the most expertly balanced storerooms off kilter, potentially leading to production downtime. They may necessitate higher stock levels and increase working capital needs. PCA has the analytic expertise and supply chain know-how to help you adjust to today’s supply disruptions. 

Why Supply Chain Disruptions Are Coming Back Around 

Tariffs, trade wars and economic uncertainty in 2025 have once again shaken up global supply chains. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns in China halted production and delayed critical parts like semiconductors. At the height of the crisis, nearly 50% of work orders couldn’t be performed because organizations lacked the parts they needed. Deferred maintenance has a huge cost, up to 30 times more than performing repairs early.  

Today, new tariffs are causing similar chaos. These changes could mean a new wave of supply chain disruptions and longer lead times for your storeroom. If you can find the parts you need, they’ll probably be pricier. 

The Impact on Your Maintenance Storeroom 

Supply chain disruptions hit your storeroom where it hurts: availability and cost. During the pandemic, many companies faced delays and struggled to get the parts they required. Tariffs are driving up costs and lead-times, forcing you to choose between overstocking or risking shortages and downtime.  

Neither option is ideal. Overstocking parts “just in case” can leave you holding on to millions of dollars in surplus inventory. On the other hand, taking your chances in the current climate could mean waiting weeks for mission-critical parts. So, what’s the right answer? 

How PCA Can Help You Stay Ahead 

You can’t control tariffs or global trade, but you can strengthen your storeroom. 

PCA’s data-driven approach balances availability and cost. We can analyze your usage patterns and current materials prices to optimize stock levels and minimize downtime. Our team uses advanced analytics to streamline procurement and keep maintenance costs in check. 

Actionable Steps to Mitigate Disruptions  

There’s no end to the trade wars in sight, which means you need to start preparing now. Here are the steps you should take to protect your storeroom: 

• Identify critical spares based on risk and disruption potential 

• Use forecasting tools to predict demand and optimize stock levels 

• Diversify your supply chain to reduce your reliance on tariff-hit regions 

Finally, partner with PCA to set and maintain inventory optimization analytics. These steps can mean the difference between business continuity and major disruptions.  

Secure Your Storeroom With PCA 

Don’t let supply chain disruptions derail your operations. PCA’s expertise can ensure that your storeroom stays ready and has the right spares when it matters most. Connect with PCA Consulting today to learn more.