Why are LEGO sets so expensive?

While LEGO produces in multiple countries, many toy products face 15-25% tariffs. A $100 building set includes roughly $15-25 in tariff costs. The holiday shopping season amplifies the total impact on family budgets.

Are tariffs why toy prices went up?

Tariffs are a major factor. Over 80% of toys sold in the U.S. are imported, with China being the dominant source. Section 301 tariffs of 15-25% on Chinese toys have raised prices across the entire toy aisle.

Do educational toys have lower tariffs?

No. Educational toys and STEM kits face the same tariff rates as other toys — 15-25% depending on classification. There is no tariff reduction for educational or developmental products.

Tariff Rates

Tariff on Toys & Games: The Tax on Play

U.S. tariffs on imported toys add 10-25% to the retail price. The average household with children pays $100-250 per year in hidden tariff costs on toys and games. These duties are eligible for refund through the CBP CAPE program.

10-25%

tariff rate range

$100-250/year

avg. household impact

$35 billion

total U.S. imports

How Much Do Tariffs Add to Toys & Games Prices?

Here's what tariffs actually cost you on common toys & games purchases.

Product	Tariff Rate	Price Impact
Action Figures & Dolls	15-25%	$3-15 per toy
Board Games & Puzzles	10-15%	$3-8 per game
Building Sets (LEGO, etc.)	15-25%	$5-25 per set
Ride-On Toys & Bikes	15-25%	$20-60 per item
Video Game Accessories	15-25%	$5-20 per item

2Vietnam

3Mexico

4Indonesia

5Taiwan

China faces the highest tariff rates (up to 145% on some goods) due to Section 301 and IEEPA tariffs. Other countries face varying rates under IEEPA “reciprocal” tariffs.

Can You Get This Money Back?

For Importers

CAPE Tariff Refund Recovery

If you import toys & games, your entries may qualify for refund through the CBP CAPE program. Tariffi prepares your declaration data; your licensed customs broker partner files it.

Start your claim

For Consumers

B2B2C Refund Distribution

Individual consumers can't file CAPE declarations directly, but Tariffi's distribution program connects you with importers recovering refunds — so a portion of those savings can flow back to you.

Calculate your impact

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are LEGO sets so expensive?: While LEGO produces in multiple countries, many toy products face 15-25% tariffs. A $100 building set includes roughly $15-25 in tariff costs. The holiday shopping season amplifies the total impact on family budgets.
Are tariffs why toy prices went up?: Tariffs are a major factor. Over 80% of toys sold in the U.S. are imported, with China being the dominant source. Section 301 tariffs of 15-25% on Chinese toys have raised prices across the entire toy aisle.
Do educational toys have lower tariffs?: No. Educational toys and STEM kits face the same tariff rates as other toys — 15-25% depending on classification. There is no tariff reduction for educational or developmental products.

Related resources

All tariff rates by product & country — browse tariff impacts across all categories
Tariff recovery by industry — refund pools for 30+ import sectors
IEEPA & Section 301 refund guides — step-by-step recovery guides
Tariff impact calculator — estimate your overpayment and potential refund

Calculate your tariff impact on toys & games

See exactly how much tariffs add to the toys & games you import or buy — and how much you could recover.

Calculate Your Tariff Impact

Questions? support@tariffi.io