Toilet paper. Coffee. Olive oil. If you’re feeling a little déjà vu—you’re not alone. In a scene straight out of early 2020, people are once again stockpiling. But this time, it’s not a health crisis that’s clearing shelves – it’s a fear of high prices. Steep tariffs on imported items are threatening the national supply chain. Some experts estimate that Chinese-made items will now be two and a half times more expensive than last year.
As a result, many shoppers are filling their carts with shelf-stable groceries, frozen goods and home care items like cleaning supplies and batteries, which are often imported. An early 2025 survey from the University Of Chicago polled almost fourteen thousand people about the effects of tariffs. Nearly 40 percent of respondents planned to stockpile items, and a third also planned to put aside extra cash ahead of price spikes.
But not everyone has the option to panic-buy. Stockpiling requires upfront money and space — two things a lot of people don’t have. For those living paycheck to paycheck, or in small apartments, buying in bulk is a luxury. So, while some are filling their garages and freezers, others are just trying to afford next week’s groceries. This moment isn’t just about tariffs or trade. It’s a snapshot of an anxious economy — one where fear moves faster than policy and who gets to “prepare” often depends on who can afford to.
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