Understanding the Hidden Costs of Kei Truck Parts on eBay
Kei part buyers, new and seasoned, can face uncertainty regarding additional costs from recently implemented U.S. tariffs — and eBay presents a noteworthy tariff markup trap. Although eBay is a popular choice for many kei truck part buyers due to its accessibility, vast selection, and international sellers, we’ll explain why tariff updates have led users to mistakenly believe they’re saving money on the platform compared to other sites.
Check out the rest of our guide below to save frustration with unexpected kei part expenses.
How Import Tariffs on Kei Truck Parts Work
Import tariffs on kei truck parts don’t follow the same rates as complete kei trucks. Instead, they’re assessed based on the part’s classification and material composition. Certain materials, like stainless steel that you might find in a kei truck’s exhaust system, face higher tariffs — often around 50%. Despite some kei part materials imposing tariffs as high as 50%, many buyers are unaware that these increased costs can be layered on top of the 15% base tariff enacted earlier this month.
Global codes found in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) are used to categorize auto parts and establish the tariff rate that a buyer must pay. Mufflers and exhaust pipes, for instance, have different codes than radiators. Customs valuation raises the total duty paid by applying tariffs to the declared value of the goods, as well as to shipping and insurance expenses. Additionally, importers must contend with handling, customs brokerage, and potential carrier surcharges, which can increase tariff rates.
The U.S. also eliminated the $800 “de minimis” rule on August 29, 2025, which had allowed low-value shipments under $800 to enter duty-free. Understanding the classification and tariff rates for the imported parts is critical for an accurate forecast of the actual purchase price, which helps you avoid unexpected markups. You can contact us while shopping our catalogue for more information on how the total landing costs for one or multiple products are calculated.
Why eBay Prices Don’t Reflect Total Import Costs
Today, people shopping for kei truck parts online often look at eBay listings and perceive themselves as getting a better deal since the site’s ads only show the base sale price, plus basic shipping costs. However, these listings don’t reflect costs like import tariffs and customs fees that a buyer faces upon arrival. As previously mentioned, U.S. Customs assesses import tariffs on parts after they are purchased and can reach up to 50%, depending on the material and classification. After the parts ship, buyers receive an invoice, but the carrier pays the tariffs to clear customs first. Many purchasers underestimate their overall costs as a result of unclear eBay prices. It’s not uncommon for extra expenses to compound and double the initial price of an eBay listing.
Buyers who shop for multiple small parts from different sellers on eBay may face repeated tariff fees and multiple carrier brokerage charges, thereby compounding their costs. Understanding that eBay prices do not include full landing costs can help you budget correctly and avoid these unexpected expenses. Oiwa Garage supplies customers with full landing costs upfront so you don’t have to play guessing games with your budgeting.
Real-World Example: The Wirus Win Exhaust and Its True Cost
Now that we’ve provided a basic overview of how parts tariffs impact U.S. kei truck drivers, let’s take a closer look at a real-world example. The stainless steel Honda Acty exhaust Wirus Win Sports Type muffler is a popular replacement part for 1990-1999 HA3 Acty models. A key detail is that the part contains SUS304 stainless steel, which helps establish its durability and resistance to rust. However, in addition to the primary 15% tariff, importing this Honda Acty part would result in a total tariff of 65% (15% base + 50% stainless steel). Oiwa Garage lists this product (at the time of this post’s publishing) at $451.88 — a cost that already includes all tariffs. In comparison, searching for this part on eBay yields listings with an average price of $340 to $400 (basic shipping costs excluded, if applicable), but you won’t get the final, transparent pricing that Oiwa Garage emphasizes.
Know Your True Costs Before Buying Kei Truck Parts on eBay
Buyer education about import tariffs, customs processes, and hidden fees when purchasing kei truck parts is vital in general, but it’s especially important when for platforms like eBay. Tariff policies have also experienced frequent shifts, heightening buyer confusion. Oiwa Garage strives to provide customers with the highest value, and our transparent tariff pricing helps you avoid costly surprises and make smarter budgeting decisions. While you can use the HTS to help classify goods, scanning our catalogue saves you time by supplying the information that you need upfront. Browse our catalogue today to confidently navigate murky import costs and continue enjoying your kei truck.
