What Does Made in America Mean? Understanding the Label and Its Benefits
The Made in America label carries weight: it represents quality, trust, and a commitment to domestic manufacturing. But not every product advertised as manufactured in the USA actually meets the standard. That’s why the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces strict guidelines to ensure that products bearing a Made in America label are, in fact, “all or virtually all” made in the United States.
In this article, we’ll explain what Made in America means, the standards behind the label, why it matters for consumers and businesses, and how Panel Built continues to uphold this commitment in every modular structure we build.
What Does Made in America Mean?
The FTC regulates claims like “Made in America” or “Made in the USA” to prevent misleading advertising. For a product to legally carry this label, it must meet all of the following criteria:
- Final assembly or processing must take place in the United States.
- All significant processing and all or nearly all components must be made and sourced domestically.
- Any foreign content must be negligible.
This means that nearly every material, part, and labor hour that goes into the product must come from within the U.S. The FTC also evaluates:
- The percentage of the total manufacturing cost tied to U.S. production.
- The importance of any foreign-sourced components to the finished product’s function and value.
If a product doesn’t fully meet these requirements, manufacturers may be able to use a qualified claim for transparency. For example:
- “Made in the USA from Imported Parts”
- “Assembled in the USA”
These claims help consumers understand the true origin of the product while still recognizing U.S. manufacturing contributions.
Why Made in America Matters
American manufacturing has been a cornerstone of economic growth, job creation, and national security for decades. Laws like the Buy American Act of 1933, signed by President Herbert Hoover, were designed to prioritize domestic sourcing for government purchases—a principle that still influences policy today.
Benefits of Buying Made in America Products
- Job Creation: Supports local communities by sustaining and creating high-quality jobs.
- Higher Quality Standards: U.S. manufacturing is subject to strict quality controls, producing reliable and durable goods.
- Fair Labor Practices: American manufacturers follow OSHA regulations, ensuring safe working environments and fair wages.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces the environmental impact of shipping products across oceans.
- Supply Chain Security: Less reliance on foreign suppliers means fewer disruptions and more predictable production.
- Stronger Domestic Economy: Keeps more dollars circulating within the U.S., reducing the trade deficit.
Panel Built’s Commitment to Being Made in the USA
For more than 30 years, Panel Built, Inc. has proudly produced Made in America products from our headquarters in Blairsville, Georgia. Founder & CEO Mike Kiernan started the company in his hometown, leveraging the skills of the local workforce and creating a foundation for long-term growth.
Today, we operate six manufacturing facilities across Georgia and Tennessee, employing over 300 full-time workers. Our commitment to American manufacturing runs deep. It’s reflected not only in our modular construction methods but also in how we source our materials and support our community.
How Panel Built Upholds the Made in America Standard
- Domestic Sourcing: We prioritize U.S.-made materials for our projects, supporting local suppliers and strengthening the national economy.
- Supporting National Infrastructure: Many of our projects serve the U.S. government and military, reinforcing critical operations and national security.
- Safe Labor Practices: We meet or exceed all federal labor standards, ensuring safe, ethical, and fair working conditions.
- Environmental Responsibility: Local production reduces transportation distances, lowering carbon emissions compared to overseas shipping.
- Commitment to Long-Term Growth: By keeping our operations domestic, we help sustain American innovation and manufacturing expertise.
Why Choosing Made in America Is a Smart Decision
When you choose Made in America products, you’re making an investment—in quality, in jobs, and in the long-term stability of our economy. For Panel Built customers, that investment means receiving a modular structure that meets the highest standards of craftsmanship, safety, and performance.
Take the Next Step
If you’re looking for a manufactured in the USA solution for your modular office, guard booth, mezzanine, or cleanroom, Panel Built is ready to deliver. Contact us today at 800-636-3873 or info@panelbuilt.com to discuss your project. You can also request a quote online, and we’ll provide specifications, pricing, and timelines to help you get started.