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Library / Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W461)

European military origins and the import gauntlet

Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W461) · history

Most of these trucks are ex-Swiss-Army 230GE or Bundeswehr diesel (250GD/290GD) vehicles brought over from Europe, and commenters describe importation as a real hassle requiring DOT and EPA clearance even on 25-year-old vehicles. Buyers repeatedly raise the question of a 25% US customs 'commercial vehicle' rate, and sellers route trucks through Canada or overseas shipping (one from Spain) with brokerage fees of roughly $1,200-$1,500.