“Companies pay duties when they shouldn’t—and often don’t know they can get them back.” — Noa Sussman, TecEx
In this latest installment of the TecEx Podcast Series, Technology Reseller News publisher Doug Green is joined once again by Noa Sussman of TecEx for a deep dive into one of the least understood yet most impactful opportunities in global trade: duty drawbacks.
With tariffs in flux and new rounds expected as early as August, Sussman emphasizes that even experienced IT hardware exporters may be leaving money on the table. Tariff volatility—especially under recent and forthcoming U.S. trade policies—means that companies importing equipment, only to re-export it or return unsold or damaged merchandise, may qualify for substantial reimbursements. The problem? Most don’t realize they’re eligible—or assume the process is too complex to pursue.
Sussman walks through real-world cases, including a company importing $3 million worth of rockets later launched by SpaceX. Because the hardware technically leaves U.S. territory, that business can apply to recover hundreds of thousands in duties—a scenario that applies even to one-off imports. Whether it’s unused merchandise, rejected goods, or components used in U.S.-based manufacturing for re-export, companies may qualify for duty drawbacks—if they file correctly and document thoroughly.
TecEx acts as a strategic partner in these scenarios, providing case-by-case analysis and only charging if savings are found. Sussman compares the service to that of a seasoned tax advisor: one who understands obscure government programs and evolving rules across jurisdictions.
More importantly, the conversation elevates trade compliance from a back-office function to a boardroom imperative. As tariffs affect profitability, C-suite leaders must engage early in supply chain planning to ensure compliance, mitigate risk, and improve margins.
Learn more at tecex.com.