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Hino Tow Truck for Sale: Reliable Japanese Engineering for the U.S. Market GuideMechanic.Com When most Americans think of tow trucks, big domestic names like Ford, Freightliner, Peterbilt, and Kenworth usually come to mind. But in recent years, Hino Trucks—a Japanese brand under Toyota—has been steadily gaining ground in the U.S. towing industry.
Known for their durability, efficiency, and lower operating costs, Hino tow trucks have become a favorite among small to mid-sized towing businesses and even larger fleets looking for versatile medium-duty options.
If you’re searching for a Hino tow truck for sale in the U.S., this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: models, pricing, advantages, ownership costs, and whether Hino makes sense for your business.
Hino Tow Truck for Sale
Why Choose Hino Tow Trucks?
See Also: Towing Truck for Sale
Hino has earned its reputation worldwide as one of the most dependable commercial truck brands. Here’s why U.S. operators are taking notice:
- Japanese Reliability – As part of Toyota, Hino trucks are built with precision engineering and long-lasting diesel engines.
- Fuel Efficiency – Medium-duty Hino tow trucks consume significantly less fuel than many heavy-duty American models.
- Affordability – New or used, Hino trucks are usually cheaper than comparable U.S. heavy-duty tow trucks.
- Urban-Friendly – Their medium-duty size makes them maneuverable in cities, perfect for repossessions, dealer work, and roadside assistance.
- Resale Value – Demand often exceeds supply in the U.S., meaning used Hino tow trucks hold their value well.
Popular Hino Models for Towing
- Hino 258ALP (Medium Duty): Often converted into rollback flatbeds. A popular choice for urban towing and repossession jobs.
- Hino 268 / 268A: Versatile and durable. Stronger than the 258 and perfect for light to mid-sized towing.
- Hino 338: Heavy-duty within the medium segment. Ideal for longer flatbeds or light-duty wreckers.
- Hino XL Series: Hino’s U.S. entry into the heavy-duty market. A newer series that’s gaining attention for larger recovery jobs.
U.S. Market Pricing for Hino Tow Trucks (2025)
| Model & Year | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hino 258 (2008–2012) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Best for start-ups, older units still reliable |
| Hino 268 (2013–2017) | $45,000 – $65,000 | Good balance of price and performance |
| Hino 338 (2016–2019) | $65,000 – $90,000 | Strong choice for established companies |
| Hino XL (2020+) | $95,000 – $130,000 | Modern, powerful, and long-lasting |
| Custom Flatbed Builds | $120,000 – $150,000+ | Fully equipped for commercial towing |
Note: Compared to a U.S.-built heavy-duty rotator (which can cost $500,000–$750,000), Hino trucks are significantly more affordable while still offering professional-grade performance.
Strengths of Hino Tow Trucks
- Fuel Savings: Up to 15% lower fuel costs than comparable U.S. medium-duty trucks.
- Operator Comfort: Japanese cab design emphasizes ergonomics and visibility.
- Lower Maintenance: Straightforward service requirements, and many Toyota-sourced parts are available in the U.S.
- Urban Advantage: Their size makes them more maneuverable in tight spaces than larger American rigs.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Not for Heavy Recovery: Hino isn’t designed to compete with heavy rotators or large semi tow trucks.
- Availability in the U.S.: Fewer units are available compared to Ford or Freightliner.
- Parts Import Costs: Some components may cost more if they must be imported.
- Where to Find Hino Tow Trucks for Sale in the U.S.
- Authorized Hino Dealers – Best for new trucks or certified pre-owned.
- Commercial Truck Trader & TruckPaper – Online marketplaces with national listings.
- Auctions (Ritchie Bros., IAAI) – Great for snagging used trucks at lower prices.
- Fleet Sales – Tow companies upgrading to heavy-duty trucks often sell their older Hinos.
Case Study: Dallas, Texas
A small towing operator in Dallas purchased a 2015 Hino 258 rollback for $48,000. Within 18 months, the truck handled over 500 towing jobs (average $125 per job), generating more than $62,000 in revenue.
With minimal downtime and lower fuel costs, the company quickly paid off the truck and later added a second Hino to its fleet.
Hino Tow Truck for Sale
Operating Costs of a Hino Tow Truck
- Fuel: $4,000 – $7,500 annually (depending on routes).
- Maintenance: $2,000 – $4,500 annually.
- Insurance: $8,000 – $15,000 annually, depending on state and coverage.
These numbers are significantly lower than for heavy-duty rotators, making Hino an attractive option for small to mid-sized operators.
Market Trends for Hino in the U.S.
- Growing Demand – Repossession and dealership contracts are driving interest in medium-duty tow trucks.
- Eco-Friendly Shift – Hino has begun developing hybrid and electric commercial trucks in overseas markets, which could soon enter the U.S. market.
- Fleet Adoption – Larger operators are mixing Hinos into their fleets for efficiency in urban environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a Hino tow truck good for a start-up towing business?
A: Yes. Affordable purchase prices and low operating costs make them perfect for beginners.
Q: What’s the towing capacity of a Hino 258?
A: Typically 12–14 tons, ideal for cars, SUVs, and light-duty trucks.
Q: Should I buy new or used?
A: Used Hinos (2013–2018 models) often provide the best value, while new XL models suit larger fleets.
Q: How does Hino compare to Ford or Freightliner?
A: Hino is more fuel-efficient and affordable but lacks the heavy-duty options offered by American brands.
Final Thoughts
For U.S. towing businesses looking for reliability, efficiency, and affordability, a Hino tow truck for sale is an outstanding choice.
From the versatile 258 rollback to the heavier-duty 338 and XL series, Hino offers trucks that deliver Japanese engineering tailored to American towing needs.
With pricing from $25,000 for older used units up to $150,000 for new builds, Hino strikes a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.
Whether you’re starting out or expanding your fleet, a Hino tow truck can provide the dependable foundation your towing business needs.
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