Truck Import Tariff Announced in New White House Action

Truck Import Tariff: U.S. Adjusts Imports of Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicles and Parts

The White House has announced a new truck import tariff on medium- and heavy-duty trucks, their parts, and buses. The rule was issued on October 17, 2025, under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. It comes after a federal review that found rising truck imports could pose a risk to U.S. national security.

White House Explains the New Truck Import Tariff

The truck import tariff applies to most medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and many key parts. The Department of Commerce said imports were growing “in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States.”

Officials said these vehicles are vital to the nation’s supply chain and defense. They are used to move freight, help during emergencies, and support infrastructure work. More than 70 percent of all U.S. freight travels on these trucks, the report noted.

Why the U.S. Introduced the Truck Import Tariff

The investigation found that U.S. makers of trucks and parts depend too much on foreign suppliers. Imports now make up about 43 percent of the market for Class 4–8 trucks, and nearly half of Class 8 trucks sold in the U.S. come from overseas.

Officials also pointed to a heavy reliance on imported engines, batteries, and transmissions. These parts are essential for truck production. Because the supply chain for heavy-duty trucks is less diverse than for light-duty vehicles, it is more vulnerable to disruption. The new truck import tariff aims to make the U.S. more self-reliant.

New Duty Rates Under the Truck Import Tariff

Starting November 1, 2025, imported medium- and heavy-duty trucks and listed parts will face a 25 percent duty. Buses and other vehicles under HTSUS heading 8702 will face a 10 percent tariff.

The White House also announced an Import Adjustment Offset. From November 2025 through October 2030, U.S. truck makers may claim a 3.75 percent offset based on the value of trucks they build inside the country. This rule encourages more truck assembly in the United States.

Commerce will also review more parts that may face future tariffs if they pose security risks. This means the truck import tariff could expand over time as conditions change.

How the Truck Tariff Affects Fleets and Drivers

The truck import tariff could raise costs for fleets that buy imported vehicles or parts. Engines, transmissions, and other imported parts may become more expensive. Fleet managers and owner-operators might need to check suppliers or find local options to reduce costs.

For U.S. truck and parts makers, the change could bring new chances to grow. Building more trucks in America may create jobs and shorten delivery times. Still, it could take months for factories and suppliers to adjust to the new rules.

Tariff Implementation and Next Steps

The truck import tariff begins in early November. U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Commerce Department will publish the final instructions for importers and manufacturers. These will explain how to report costs and how to claim the 3.75 percent offset.

Fleet owners should follow updates closely. Truck dealers and manufacturers may shift assembly lines, change prices, or delay some deliveries while the new tariff takes effect. Future reviews could also add more parts to the tariff list if risks continue to rise.

Industry Outlook After the Truck Import Tariff

Many fleets will now review long-term truck orders and replacement plans. Some may turn to domestic brands or rebuild older trucks while costs settle. Manufacturers and suppliers may also increase their investment in U.S.-based operations.

The White House said the goal of the truck import tariff is to protect U.S. industry and keep supply chains secure. For the trucking world, it marks a major shift toward rebuilding domestic strength in heavy-duty vehicle production.