S3 E2: Export, Import, Tariffs, and Trade Compliance for Hardware Startups with Gabrielle Griffith

S3 E2: Export, Import, Tariffs, and Trade Compliance for Hardware Startups with Gabrielle Griffith

Author: Sera Evcimen October 14, 2025 Duration: 1:05:57

This episode is all about navigating the complex world of tariffs and global trade compliance for hardware startups, featuring Gabrielle Griffith, Director at BPE Global, a leading trade compliance consulting firm. Gabrielle brings 20+ years of experience helping companies of all sizes manage the risks, costs, and surprises of international trade.

If you’ve ever wondered how tariffs, HTS codes, and country of origin rules really impact your hardware business, this is the episode for you. In this episode, you’ll discover:

🛃 The fundamentals of tariffs, HTS codes, and why getting your classifications right is critical. 🌍 How country of origin and “substantial transformation” can make or break your supply chain strategy.

🤝 The real impact (and limitations) of free trade agreements like USMCA for hardware companies.

🚩 Common misconceptions on tariffs that can get startups in trouble.

💡 Practical strategies, scenario planning, and real-world horror stories to help you avoid costly mistakes.

📦 How to work with customs brokers, document your supply chain, and keep your business audit-ready.

⚠️ What to do when things go wrong—plus the fines, penalties, and legal risks you need to know about.

🔎 Why scenario analysis and proactive planning are essential in today’s fast-changing trade environment.

👉 If you’re a hardware founder, engineer, or anyone involved in building and shipping physical products, this episode is packed with actionable advice, cautionary tales, and frameworks to help you stay compliant and competitive.

Please don't forget to share, rate and like the podcast on your favorite podcast platform!

Music by: Tom Stoke

#hardwarestartups #hardwaredevelopment #supplychain #supplychainmanagement

DISCLAIMER "The Builder Circle” and “Pratik Development LLC” are independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by any other company. All views expressed are solely those of the guests. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or any professional advice. Listeners are responsible for their own decisions and should consult qualified professionals. By listening, you agree we are not liable for any outcomes.


Sera Evcimen hosts The Builder Circle™: The Hardware Startup Success Podcast, a resource created specifically for those navigating the uniquely challenging path of bringing a physical product to life. This isn't about generic business advice; it's a deep, practical conversation focused on the realities of hardware-the long development cycles, tight budgets, and complex risks that can intimidate even the most passionate founders. Each episode functions like a chapter in a vital curriculum, breaking down the concrete methods and proven processes needed to move from concept to a functioning company. You'll hear candid discussions that demystify the entire journey, offering clarity on the "unknown unknowns" that often derail promising ventures. For entrepreneurs, engineers, and builders committed to creating a successful hardware system, this podcast provides the grounded insights and strategic thinking necessary to tackle those difficulties head-on. Tune in for actionable guidance that meets the specific demands of building something real in the world of technology and entrepreneurship.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 28

The Builder Circle™: The Hardware Startup Success Podcast
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