The Benefits of Buying and Selling "In-Market"

With tariffs wreaking havoc on global trade, buying and selling professional gear—like lighting, audio, and staging equipment—across borders is getting pricey fast. Take the USA, for example: a 125% tariff on Chinese-origin goods can double your costs overnight. The solution? Stick to your own country—or “in-market”—and skip the import fees entirely. GearSource, the leading global marketplace for pre-owned gear, makes this easy. While we’re pros at cross-border deals, over 50% of our business happens within the same markets—think USA to USA, EU to EU, or UK to UK. Here’s why in-market transactions are a smart move and how GearSource helps you cash in, no matter where you are.

The Tariff Hit: A Quick Example

Imagine you’re in the USA and you're purchasing a lighting package of Chinese origin, valued at $100,000. If you buy it used, from a seller within the USA, you pay just that—$100,000. No tariffs, no fuss, because it’s already here. But import that same package from outside the country, and the new 125% tariff kicks in. Here’s how it breaks down: 

• Cost of the lighting package: $100,000
• Tariff (125%): $100,000 × 1.25 = $125,000
• Total cost to import: $100,000 + $125,000 = $225,000

That’s an extra $125,000 tacked on—more than double the original price—just for crossing a border. In-market buying dodges that bullet entirely. This isn’t just a USA thing; tariffs are a global headache, making local deals a bit easier wherever you’re based. And given that a high percentage of the professional lighting used in the USA is from outside the USA, this is obviously a significant concern for American companies. 

Why In-Market Wins

Staying within your own country for used gear transactions comes with clear perks:

• No Tariffs: Skip fees that can jack up costs by 50%, 100%, or even 125%.
• Faster Delivery: your gear will arrive sooner—and no customs delays. 
• Cheaper Logistics: Less distance, lower shipping costs, simpler process.
• Local Boost: Keep the cash flowing in your own economy.

GearSource: Your In-Market Advantage

GearSource is a marketplace known for connecting buyers and sellers worldwide, but over half our transactions stay in-market. Whether it’s a lighting rig moving across the US, a sound system staying in Europe, or a stage sold in Australia, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how we make it work:

• Location Filters: Search for gear already in your country—no tariff surprises.
• Trusted Sellers: Tap into a network of production companies, venues, and pros offering quality used gear domestically.
• Dual Strength: We shine globally but dominate in-market, giving you the best of both worlds. And our team can guide you on your best options, whatever your current need. 

Next time you’re on GearSource, think local. That $100,000 lighting package could balloon to $225,000 if imported—why pay more when you don’t have to?

Tariffs Are Climbing: The Trend to Watch

Tariffs aren’t slowing down—they’re ramping up. Governments worldwide are slapping duties on everything from tech to industrial goods, and entertainment gear isn’t immune. In-market buying sidesteps this mess, offering cost certainty in a shaky trade landscape.

What You’ll Find In-Market

GearSource is packed with pre-owned gear ready to move within your borders—lighting consoles, speakers, LED videowalls, you name it. Often, it’s sitting just a state or city away, tariff-free and budget-friendly.

In-Market Tips for GearSource Users

Make the most of it with these pointers:

For Buyers:

• Use GearSource filters to find gear in your country.
• Double-check the item’s location with GearSource.
• Enjoy the bonus of faster shipping and lower costs.

For Sellers:

• Advertise that your gear is "Located In the USA" for example—buyers love tariff-free deals.
• Offer Free Shipping for a further perk!

Wrap-Up: Stay Local, Save Smart

With tariffs throwing curveballs, buying and selling used gear in-market is the way to go. You’ll avoid import fees, cut shipping hassles, and keep costs down—all while scoring the gear you need. GearSource makes it simple, bridging local sellers and buyers worldwide with over 50% of our deals staying in-market. And of course, now is also a great time to sell! Upgrade your sound system with another used package available on GearSource, again, tariff free! Sell yours without hassle on the worlds biggest and best used gear marketplace. 

From the USA to the EU, UK to Australia and even Asia, the logic holds: local buys beat import blues. Hit up GearSource, browse in-market listings, and see how much you can save on pre-owned gear without a tariff in sight.