4 in 10 Americans Are Stockpiling Goods in Fear of Tariffs

Our core insights:

• 28% of Americans are actively stockpiling goods, and 17% will start soon
• 9 in 10 are concerned about how Trump’s tariffs will impact the cost of goods
• 15% of Americans who have begun stockpiling have spent more than $1,000
• 20% of stockpilers will purchase a year’s supply of goods or more
• 1 in 3 respondents will make large purchases before Trump takes office

3 in 10 Americans Are Actively Stockpiling Goods, Many Will Start Soon

Nearly 3 in 10 Americans (28%) report actively stockpiling goods in anticipation of potential disruptions like price hikes or shortages, while 17% plan to begin soon. Another 28% have considered stockpiling but have yet to take action, while 27% have no plans to stockpile goods. 

Those actively stockpiling or considering it say their actions are motivated by concerns about rising prices (62%). Additionally, more than half (53%) are driven by general economic uncertainty and 50% out of fear of supply shortages. Other notable factors include concerns about the impact of potential tariffs (33%) and worries about another pandemic (27%). 

9 in 10 are concerned about future tariffs impacting the costs of goods

When asked specifically about the potential impact of tariffs on the price of goods, 58% say they are highly concerned, and 30% report being somewhat worried. On the other hand, 8% are not very concerned, and 3% aren’t worried at all.

Americans Are Stockpiling Household Essentials, Non-Perishable Foods, and More

Household essentials (78%) and non-perishable foods (78%) are the top items Americans are stockpiling, followed by personal care products (71%) and medical supplies (46%). Fuel and energy (35%), clothing and shoes (27%), and firearms and ammunition (19%) are less common but are also being stockpiled by some Americans. 

Among active stockpilers, 15% have already spent over $1,000, and 2% have spent more than $5,000.

20% are buying a year or more worth of supply

About 7% of respondents are stockpiling more than two years’ worth of supplies, while 13% are stockpiling one to two years’ worth. Another 26% are stockpiling a six- to 12-month supply, 37% are stockpiling a three- to six-month supply, and 18% are stockpiling less than a three-month supply. 

Storage units are being used to keep stockpiled items

Most respondents are storing or planning to keep their stockpiled items in a spare room in their house (47%). Respondents also say they will use their basement (37%) and garage (29%). Others plan to use rental storage units (7%) or a friend or family member’s home (4%). 

1 in 3 Will Make Large Purchases Before Trump Takes Office

Over a third of respondents (34%) say that since November 5, 2024, they have already made or will make at least one large purchase before Trump takes office. Among those making large purchases, 30% say Trump’s election as president influenced their decision a lot, and 28% say it had a little bit of influence. Americans have or will purchase electronics (46%), appliances (38%), furniture (26%), and cars (25%).

Methodology: This report is based on data from a survey commissioned by StorageUnits.com and conducted online via Pollfish on December 20, 2024. The survey included 1,750 U.S.-based residents. Inquiries can be directed to [email protected].