American consumers are expressing a mix of "shock" and concern as they prepare for steep tariffs set to take effect Wednesday, affecting goods from several nations. However, many say they will adjust their budgets to accommodate the price hikes. "The last few days have generally caused a lot of shock and fear," says a shopper outside a Costco in Arlington, Virginia. "I have no plans to buy any products from Europe or Asia, and I didn't have any, but if I did, I'm not going to do it immediately," he adds. "Stuff prices change over time (...) But I don't think it's any worse than it's been the past four years," a housewife tells AFP after loading groceries in her car in the supermarket's parking lot. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES