By Benjamin Roussey

 

As consumers, we have the power to make a difference in the world through the choices we make every day, including what products we buy. Many of us want to support American-made goods and contribute to the country’s economy. Based on this, with so many products claiming to be “Made in the USA,” it can be hard to determine which ones are authentically American – especially in the midst of widespread digital and social media promotions and aggressive advertising and marketing tactics.

 

 

Check the labels

 

 

The first step in looking for domestic products is to check the label; it will tell you where it was made and who manufactured it. Look for labels that say “Made in the USA” or “Manufactured in the USA”. These labels clearly indicate that the product was manufactured in the United States. 

 

In relation to this, some products tend to have labels that are unclear or misleading; some manufacturers use vague terms like “Assembled in the USA” or “Designed in the USA,” which don’t guarantee that the product was entirely made in our country. In such cases, it’s possible that some components or materials were sourced from other countries, and only the final assembly or design occurred in the USA. 

 

Do your research

 

In addition to checking the label, it’s always a good idea to do some research on the manufacturer’s website. Many all-American companies take pride in their heritage and will often feature their products on their websites along with detailed information about their production methods and the materials they use.

Browsing through a company’s social media pages can also be a helpful way to learn more about their products and manufacturing processes. You may come across Facebook or Instagram posts or videos that showcase how a product is made, or read comments from satisfied customers who have bought American-made products from that particular company.

 

 

But don’t give up just yet. In this guide, we will share some helpful insights on how to look for authentic American-made products so you can support local businesses and make every dollar you spend count. 

Look for American-made certifications

 

A majority of genuine American-made products carry certifications from reputable organizations like Made in USA Certified and Buy American Movement. Made in USA Certified is a third-party certification company that rigorously audits products, services and supply chains to verify whether they meet the requirements to be considered “Made in USA,” “Product of USA” or “Service in the USA.” This certification guarantees that the product was manufactured in the U.S., and most of its components were also sourced from within the country. 

 

The Buy American Movement is another organization that supports and promotes homegrown products and businesses. While they don’t offer a certification themselves, they endorse products and companies that meet their criteria for being actually made in the U.S. 

 

Use reliable online directories 

 

Imagine being able to find all your favorite U.S.-crafted products in one place. With the rise of online directories and websites dedicated to promoting and listing domestic goods, it’s now easier than ever to support American manufacturers. Some of the most popular platforms include Made in America Co., American Made Matters and USA Love List. These websites offer a plethora of products – all made in the USA – from apparel and home goods to electronics and toys and much more.

But these websites offer more than just a one-stop-shop for American-made items. They also provide valuable information about the manufacturers and their history, manufacturing processes and commitment to homegrown products. And for those interested in staying up-to-date with the latest news and developments in domestic manufacturing, these websites often feature articles and blog posts about American manufacturing, sustainable practices and the benefits of supporting domestic products.

Shop local

 

Buying from local businesses, farmers markets, craft fairs and boutique and specialty stores not only helps to create jobs in the community but also encourages domestic manufacturing. You can make a world of difference in supporting local manufacturers and artisans by shopping locally – instead of buying online, where a vast sea of faceless sellers often prioritize profit over quality, importing inexpensive goods from overseas at the expense of American craftsmanship.

 

Also, when you buy locally, you can discover so many unique products, handmade crafts and artisan goods that are not available in larger retail chains. The care put into these items often make them of higher quality than mass-produced products. 

 

Not to mention this allows you to connect directly with the people behind the products. You can interact with the local business owners and craftsmen (and women) who create the items, giving you a better understanding of exactly what it takes to make something from scratch. This personal connection ensures that your purchases align with your preferences and principles.

Compare value vs. price

 

In general, be prepared to pay a bit more for American-made products. Items that are designed, made and assembled in the USA usually come with a higher cost because you’re ultimately supporting fair labor practices, low environmental footprint, regulatory compliance and, above all, high-quality materials that are used to make long-lasting and better-performing items.

 

When it comes to choosing between imported products and all-American goods, it’s easy to get swayed by lower price tags. But here’s the thing – every time you invest in something that is made right here in the good old USA, you are making a conscious decision to support workers who are treated fairly, production processes that are ethical and a country that prioritizes the environment. Also, since these items often boast higher quality, they will save you a pretty penny in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements. 

 

A small change with a big impact 

 

As you embark on your journey to support made-in-the-USA products, remember that every purchase represents a choice – a choice to support domestic businesses, to protect the environment and to invest in the future of our country, which is struggling with high food prices and inflation right now. It’s an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of workers, families and communities across the nation. 

 

So, the next time you’re shopping for a charming keepsake, statement piece of furniture or anything in between, take a moment to consider its origin story: who made it and where it was made. By choosing American-made, you are not just buying a product – you are buying a story, a legacy and a vision for a better tomorrow. We can work together to create a brighter future for all Americans, one purchase at a time.

 

BENJAMIN ROUSSEY is from Sacramento, CA but now lives in Arizona. He completed 4 years in the US Navy and has an MBA in Global Management. He has lived in South Korea and Saudi Arabia where he was an ESL instructor. Now he writes professionally for several clients that cover one sector of our economy to another – he also writes movie scripts. He enjoys sports, movies, reading, and current events when he is not working online.