Navigating Tariff Challenges: Tax Deductions and Credits for Farm Equipment Manufacturers
Tariffs continue to create uncertainty for farm equipment manufacturers, driving up costs on raw materials and disrupting supply chains. While these trade shifts pose challenges, tax deductions and credits can offer relief—helping manufacturers offset expenses, preserve cash flow, and stay competitive.
By strategically leveraging available tax breaks, manufacturers can navigate rising costs while investing in long-term stability. Here’s a breakdown of key deductions and credits designed to support the industry.
- Section 179 Tax Deduction: Invest and Save
If your company is purchasing new equipment, Section 179 allows you to deduct up to $1,250,000 in qualifying business expenses in 2025. This means farm equipment manufacturers can immediately write off the cost of machinery, vehicles, and office technology rather than depreciating expenses over time.
• Why it matters: Faster deductions mean better cash flow, giving businesses financial flexibility amid tariff uncertainties. - Bonus Depreciation: Maximize Equipment Investments
Need additional deductions? Bonus Depreciation lets manufacturers write off 40% of eligible equipment costs in 2025, whether the purchases are new or used.
• Pro Tip: This works well for businesses making large investments in high-cost machinery and production technology. - R&D Tax Credit: Rewarding Innovation
Tariffs are pushing farm equipment manufacturers to explore new designs, alternative materials, and efficiency improvements—and that innovation can qualify for the Research & Development (R&D) tax credit. If you’re fine-tuning manufacturing processes or developing new technology, you might be eligible for credits that reduce tax liability while funding future growth. - Deductible Operating Expenses: Lower Your Taxable Income
Beyond major investments, everyday business expenses can also reduce your tax burden. Some key deductible costs include:
• Raw materials – Steel, hydraulics, electrical parts, and components
• Labor – Salaries, wages, and employee benefits
• Utilities – Power, water, and facility maintenance costs
• Shipping and logistics – Freight expenses for importing materials and delivering equipment
• Marketing – Advertising campaigns, promotional events, and industry outreach
• Professional services – Consulting fees for tax advisors, engineers, and legal experts - Inventory Accounting Adjustments: Managing Cost Increases
Tariffs often drive up prices on imported goods, impacting inventory costs. Using the LIFO (Last-In, First-Out) method, manufacturers can account for these changes strategically—minimizing taxable income increases caused by rising material prices.
State-Level Tax Credits: Extra Savings Opportunities
Many states offer tax incentives specifically designed to support manufacturers, including:
• Investment tax credits for new equipment purchases
• Payroll tax breaks for hiring and workforce expansion
• Property tax reductions for facility improvements
It’s worth exploring state-specific programs that may offer additional tax relief.
Plan Now, Save Later
Tariffs may be unavoidable, but smart tax planning can help farm equipment manufacturers mitigate financial strain. By leveraging these deductions, credits, and accounting strategies, companies can protect profits, reinvest in operations, and maintain long-term stability. For official tax guidelines, visit .