Known as the “Golf Cart Kingdom,” Florida sees daily usage far surpassing that of other U.S. states. Our field research suggests an ongoing “inventory depletion race,” with steeper price increases than those observed in California.
- Showroom Prosperity vs. Actual Inventory
- Large showrooms are bustling with test-drive events, yet nearly all display carts bear “Sold” labels. Sales staff say these carts will be delivered in scheduled batches.
- A closer look reveals 2024 inventoryis rapidly being sold off, while restock schedules appear almost empty. According to one local dealer, “Prices for mainstream brands have risen from about US$10,000 to US$11,000–US$13,000.”
- Unearthing the Truth About Inventory
- Some dealers have reduced transparency about their “on-hand” stock, instead inviting customers to visit in person. This move may hint at limited inventory.
- Used or refurbished golf carts are gaining traction in the market, although dealers remain guarded about it, only acknowledging “growing trade-in demand.”
- Supply Chain Uncertainties
- High tariffs on Chinese golf carts won’t go away anytime soon, and capacity in Vietnamand other possible source countries—just a few thousand carts monthly—falls far short of meeting U.S. demand.
- A local importer explained, “Even though we had higher-than-usual stock in Florida, demand has soared this year, forcing us to increase prices by US$1,000–US$2,000.”
Further Investigation:
Florida’s strained supply-demand dynamic appears poised to intensify. Its impact has already extended into the American South’s warehousing hubs. We’ll be visiting Mississippi, Texas, and Georgia to see if ‘safety stock’ is still achievable.
