How Tariffs Are Halting Laptop Exports to US – And Why Parcel Forwarding from the UK & EU Is the Smart Workaround

As global trade tensions continue to rise, especially between the United States and China, the laptop market is feeling the impact – and fast. Major manufacturers like Dell, HP, Lenovo, Asus, and Acer are slowing or pausing exports of laptops and other devices to the US, leaving many consumers scrambling for alternatives.
But if you’re affected by these sudden product gaps and price hikes, there’s good news: UK and EU retailers are still shipping freely, and with a parcel forwarding address from forward2me, you can access the full catalog of laptops – including those paused in the US – and ship them worldwide.
Trade Wars, Tariffs, and a Disrupted Laptop Market
In early April 2025, US President Donald Trump introduced a new 32% tariff on Taiwanese goods, later temporarily reduced to 10% for 90 days. This move caused immediate disruption, with companies like Framework halting US sales of select models due to unsustainable cost increases. But Taiwan isn't the only target.
US – China Tensions Add Fuel to the Fire
As the US – China trade war escalates, it’s now being reported (via the Commercial Times in Taiwan) that laptop giants like Dell, HP, and Lenovo are pausing all US imports for at least two weeks – impacting not just laptops but Chromebooks, tablets, and other consumer electronics.
Meanwhile, other brands are adjusting rapidly:
- Nintendo has delayed Switch 2 pre-orders in the US and Canada.
- Anker and Asus have raised US prices.
- Framework has pulled two laptop models from the US market.
And while US Customs and Border Protection has temporarily exempted some items (like semiconductors and flat-panel display modules) from new 125% tariffs, the relief is short-lived. According to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik, these categories will face new “semiconductor tariffs” within the next two months.
In short: the electronics market is unstable, unpredictable, and changing fast – and US consumers are feeling the effects.
Parcel Forwarding: A Safe & Smart Workaround
While the US market is tangled in tariffs, Europe and the UK remain open for business. By using a parcel forwarding service, you can still get the device you want – no matter where you live.
- Access the full product range from UK and EU retailers.
- Avoid US price hikes and stock limitations.
- Consolidate multiple items for cheaper global shipping.
- Enjoy safe delivery from forward2me's UK, German, or Japanese warehouses.
Where to Buy Laptops in the UK & EU
Here’s how you can still order laptops from top brands like Lenovo, HP, Dell, Asus, and Acer, even if they’ve been pulled from the US market.
Official Brand Stores (UK & EU)
Most major laptop manufacturers maintain robust online stores across the UK and Europe, and many models are available exclusively outside the US.
Amazon Europe Stores
Amazon’s EU marketplaces continue to offer a wide range of laptops, tablets, smartphones, and tech deals, with Amazon Germany being especially popular for its competitive pricing and reliable shipping to German addresses, including parcel forwarding services.
Similarly, Amazon UK provides access to a huge inventory of top tech brands, often featuring exclusive discounts and fast delivery options. Both platforms are excellent for international buyers looking for variety, value, and convenience across the latest devices.
Trusted Electronics Retailers in the UK & EU
These established retailers stock a wide range of laptop brands, gaming PCs, and accessories – and all are compatible with parcel forwarding:
UK-Based:
- Very – Great for flexible payment options on mainstream laptops, tablets, and budget-friendly tech.
- AO.com – Known for fast delivery and good deals on mid-range laptops, Chromebooks, and tablets.
- Argos – Solid selection of everyday laptops and tablets, with convenient same-day pickup.
- Box.co.uk – Strong on gaming laptops, components, and value-packed deals on performance tech.
EU-Based:
- MediaMarkt – Massive selection of all major laptop brands, including gaming and creator laptops.
- Saturn – Similar to MediaMarkt, with strong offerings in multimedia laptops and Android tablets.
- Otto – Great for installment plans on lifestyle laptops, 2-in-1s, and smartphones.
- Notebooksbilliger – Top pick for gaming laptops, business machines, and custom PCs.
- Cyberport – Ideal for Apple gear, ultrabooks, and high-performance laptops.
- Alternate – Strong on gaming PCs, components, and high-spec laptops for enthusiasts.
- LDLC (France) – Great for tech-savvy buyers seeking custom builds and premium laptops.
- Coolblue (NL) – Excellent customer service, with detailed advice on laptops and tablets.
- fnac (France) – Great balance of Apple and Windows devices, plus e-reader and tablet variety.
- El Corte Inglés (Spain) – Reliable for mid-to-high-end laptops and top tablet brands.
How to Order with Parcel Forwarding
- Step 1: Sign up with forward2me – it’s free.
- Step 2: Choose your preferred UK or German warehouse address.
- Step 3: Place your order at any store listed above.
- Step 4: Once your package arrives, choose your shipping method and we’ll forward it anywhere in the world.
We also offer services like Combine & Repack to make international delivery smooth and cost-effective.
As the global electronics supply chain continues to shift, more brands are pausing exports or raising prices in the US due to volatile trade policies and tariff spikes. But savvy shoppers can still access the full product range using UK and EU retailers and parcel forwarding.