Philippines Used Truck Import Rules 2026: CAI Permits, GVW Limits and LTO Registration
Quick Answer: Can You Import Used Trucks into the Philippines in 2026?
Yes — but only for approved categories and approved importers. The Philippine Bureau of Customs allows used trucks with GVW of 2.5 tons and above, used buses with GVW of 6 tons and above, and used special purpose vehicles (crane lorries, mobile drilling derricks, concrete mixer lorries). All used commercial vehicles must be left-hand drive, and every shipment needs a Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI) issued by DTI-FTEB before the truck leaves China.
Step 1 — Classify Your Vehicle Correctly
The first question is not price or shipping: it is whether your unit is off-road construction machinery, an ordinary cargo truck, or a special purpose vehicle. Track excavators and bulldozers are usually judged by function and AHTN tariff heading. Road-going dump trucks, tractor units, pump trucks, truck cranes and concrete mixers with a chassis and VIN most often fall under truck or special-purpose-vehicle rules — which changes the import permit, emission requirements, tax line, registration path and even the shipping method.
Have your Philippine importer and a licensed customs broker confirm the classification based on the nameplate, photos and technical specifications before you book a vessel.
Step 2 — Secure the CAI from DTI-FTEB
- Apply for the Certificate of Authority to Import through DTI-FTEB before actual import.
- Used trucks GVW ≥ 2.5t, used buses GVW ≥ 6t and special purpose vehicles are the eligible categories; the GVW threshold does not apply to special purpose vehicles.
- Final eligibility is always confirmed by the CAI review against the actual vehicle documents.
Step 3 — Emission and Registration Compliance
Imported used trucks must comply with DENR emission standards and be registered with the LTO (Land Transportation Office) after clearance. Budget for emission testing and initial registration as part of your landed cost.
Step 4 — China-Side Export Compliance
On the Chinese side, used vehicles are exported under MOFCOM Announcement No. 6 of 2024, covering export licensing, “transfer pending export” registration, third-party inspection and deregistration. Since January 1, 2026, vehicles registered less than 180 days before the export application also require a manufacturer after-sales service confirmation letter.
Shipping and Clearance to Manila
Most used trucks from China ship Ro-Ro or in containers to Manila, with transit typically 7-15 days depending on the port of loading. Documents must be consistent end to end: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin and the vehicle registration documents must show identical VIN, engine number and model — mismatches are the most common cause of clearance delay.
Buyer Checklist for 2026
- Confirm AHTN classification and CAI eligibility before paying any deposit.
- Verify the truck is left-hand drive and within an eligible GVW category.
- Request the pre-shipment inspection report and engine video before loading.
- Keep all document data consistent to avoid port demurrage.
Browse our used truck inventory or read more market guides. Questions about a specific unit? Contact our export team.
