U.S. trade tariffs applied to imported steel and aluminium on national security grounds. For subcontractors, these tariffs raise material and equipment costs on cross-border projects. Budget carefully when quoting jobs that involve U.S.-sourced pipe, structural steel, or fabricated components.
Section 232 Tariffs
Related Terms
Frontier Exploration
IndustryExploration activity conducted in remote, undeveloped, or previously unworked regions where subcontractors can expect longer mobilisation lead times, higher logistical costs, and limited access to local supply chains or support infrastructure.
Lean Construction
IndustryA project delivery approach that eliminates wasted time, materials, and labour on job sites. Subcontractors use lean methods to tighten scheduling, reduce idle crew time, and improve handoffs between trades. It often involves short-interval planning tools like the Last Planner System.
Construction Manager At Risk
IndustryA delivery model where a construction manager guarantees a maximum project cost and takes on financial risk if it's exceeded. Subcontractors are hired by the CM, not the owner, making the CM your direct client and contract holder. Your scope, payments, and change orders all flow through the CM.
WCB (Workers' Compensation Board)
IndustryProvincial agencies in Canada that provide workplace injury insurance. Contractors must maintain WCB coverage and good standing to work on most sites.
Preconstruction
IndustryThe planning phase before field work begins, covering scope review, site assessments, and schedule alignment with the GC. Subcontractors are often engaged during this phase to provide pricing, labour forecasts, and constructability input. Early involvement can improve mobilisation timelines and reduce costly scope changes later.
Long-Lead Procurement
IndustryThe advance ordering of materials or equipment with lengthy manufacturing or delivery timelines. For subcontractors, delays in these items often push back mobilisation dates and affect project cash flow. Always confirm long-lead delivery schedules before locking in your crew start dates.
Latest Industry News
Steel Imports Drop 30% Year-to-Date as Section 232 Tariffs Drive Buyers to Domestic Supply
US steel imports are down 30% through April 2026 as Section 232 tariffs reshape trade flows and boost domestic production, with implications for subcontractors facing tighter supply and potential price pressure.
1 month agoIndustrySection 232 Tariff Hike on Steel, Aluminum, and Copper Creates Uneven Cost Pressure for Contractors
The Trump administration's updated Section 232 tariffs, effective April 7, push duties as high as 50% on metal-heavy goods. Construction Dive reports that cost impacts will vary widely by material type and metal content, leaving contractors to price jobs under significant uncertainty.
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A joint venture of Allan Myers and P. Flanigan & Sons will rehab BWI's longest runway in an $83.8 million contract, Construction Dive reports.
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