Rule Change Will Squeeze Tradies’ Truck Supply And Push Up Prices

New emissions rules landing on 1 November 2025 will make it harder and more expensive for tradies and small operators to replace their trucks.

From that date, all heavy vehicle imports must meet Euro VI-c or an approved equivalent such as Japan 2016 at entry certification.

“These are the vehicles used across trades and contracting, from 9–12-tonne two-axle trucks up to 26-tonne 8x4s. They’re a core part of how the industry works. By cutting out a big chunk of available stock, we put these vehicles out of reach for many operators,” says Greig Epps, VIA Chief Executive.

Wider pattern across the market

The commercial-vehicle regulations mirror the broader regulatory squeeze on used passenger-vehicle imports. Tighter emissions settings, compounded by other rules, are steadily shrinking eligible supply.

It’s unclear whether that’s the Government’s objective, but the effect is obvious: as requirements ratchet up over the next few years, the used-import channel will shrink, and vehicles will become less affordable for the average Kiwi buyer and the small businesses that keep the economy moving.

VIA analysis indicates the 2024 uplift roughly halved the pool of used heavy trucks from Japan, with price lifts of $12,000–$150 000 on smaller units and up to $30,000 on heavier models. The November 2025 shift to Euro VI-c/Japan 2016 is expected to push prices higher again: +$15000 to $20,000 (smaller) and +$35,000–$40,000 (heavier).

Dealer feedback reinforces the cost pressure and scarcity: prices are up 30 per cent in parts of the used market, and many buyers are being forced into higher-kilometre local stock as offshore supply tightens.

“We back cleaner air and the use of modern emissions tech. But the changes don’t create more low-emission trucks, they just make them less accessible to the people who need them. The risk is operators hold older, higher-emitting trucks longer,” says Epps.

What tradies should do now

• Plan ahead: lock in requirements and sourcing before the November rule bites.
• Budget with headroom: expect higher capital costs at purchase as technology and compliance costs flow through.
• Work with experienced importers: to identify compliant stock early and avoid surprises at entry.

Context: The phase-in aligns New Zealand more closely with Australia and other developed markets on noxious-emission standards for heavy vehicles.

Notes:

• Effective date: 1 November 2025 (heavy vehicles at entry).
• Standards accepted: Euro VI step C, Japan 2016, and other listed international equivalents (e.g., ADR/UNECE/US).
• Proof at entry: original documentation (e.g., Japanese deregistration/export certificate) showing the applicable emissions code.

For more information: www.via.org.nz

VIA (Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association) represents businesses involved in importing, preparing, wholesaling, and retailing used vehicles into New Zealand, primarily from Japan, Singapore, and other markets. As the industry's collective voice, VIA engages with government and stakeholders to support fair regulation and sustainable practices across the sector.

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