Importing a Toyota Hilux Diesel to the USA: What It Really Costs
A famously indestructible diesel pickup with a reputation for going almost anywhere.
The diesel Hilux is prized worldwide for its durability and go-anywhere capability.
Diesel variants were never sold in the US, so Japanese-market trucks are the main source.
The full cost breakdown
Plug in your own purchase figure — everything below the vehicle scales only modestly with value. All amounts are researched 2026 estimates in USD.
| Vehicle (purchase price) | $22,000 |
| Export agent & auction fees | $1,200 |
| Ocean freight | $2,700 |
| Marine insurance (~1.5%) | $330 |
| The standard US passenger-car import duty is 2.5% of declared value | $550 |
| Customs broker & port handling | $830 |
| EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork | $300 |
| Inland transport & registration | $1,500 |
| Estimated all-in landed cost | $29,410 |
Compliance & the fine print
A diesel Hilux that is 25 or more years old imports under the 25-year exemption from US conformity rules. Verify the engine type and import documentation, since US-spec diesels were not offered.
Frequently asked questions
Why import a Hilux diesel from Japan?+
The diesel models were never sold in the US, so the home market is the route to ownership.
Note that pickups can face different duty rates?+
This guide applies the standard 2.5% passenger-car duty; confirm the correct truck classification with your broker.
Read next
Importing a Nissan Skyline R34 to the USA: the true 2026 cost
Importing a Toyota Supra MK4 (A80) to the USA in 2026
