I've noticed some of my tools have a sticker saying they're "assembled in the USA," and it honestly makes me chuckle a bit. What's the point of assembling here? Does it provide any real benefits?
3 Answers
Assembling in the USA could imply better quality control, but it’s not a hard rule. It lets companies advertise 'made in America,' which can be appealing. And hey, at least some American jobs are involved, even if the components are from elsewhere.
Exactly, that's often just marketing flair more than anything tangible.
While "Made in the USA" isn't the only reason I choose brands like DeWalt, it's definitely a factor. I know a lot of the components come from abroad, but the fact that it creates American jobs during assembly is a nice bonus.
I agree with that! I’d prefer to support jobs here.
I don't really care where it's made. If it works well, that's all that matters for me.
Having products assembled in the USA can simplify the logistics of a long supply chain. If parts come from various countries, assembling them closer to where they'll be used can save time and costs. Plus, there may be tax perks if those parts are taxed less than the final product. It’s not just about the label; it also involves complex factors like labor availability and manufacturing practices.
Got it! That makes total sense.
But it still feels like a marketing gimmick to me.

But the materials still come from places like China! It might just be assembled here.