How Much Does A Truck Weigh
Trucks are the workhorses of our roads, and their power comes hand-in-hand with impressive weight.
How much a truck weighs plays a huge role in its capabilities, so let’s break down the key categories.
Pickup Power: The Everyday Options
- Half-ton Pickups: The most common, these versatile trucks (like the Ford F-150 or Chevy Silverado) typically have a curb weight (empty weight) around 5,500 lbs.
- Three-quarter-ton Pickups: Stepping up in capacity, these handle heavier loads and usually weigh in near 6,000 lbs.
- One-ton Pickups: The “heavy-duty” pickup class starts around 7,000 lbs curb weight, offering serious hauling power.
Work Trucks: Built for the Job
- Small Work Trucks (10,000 – 14,000 lbs): Delivery trucks, small buses, and similar workhorses fit here.
- Medium Work Trucks (16,000 – 19,500 lbs): Think bucket trucks, larger delivery vehicles, etc.
- Large Medium Work Trucks (19,501 – 26,000 lbs): Single-axle beverage trucks, school buses, and the like.
- Large Work Trucks (26,001 – 33,000 lbs): Tow trucks, semi-trailers, garbage trucks, you name it!
- Extra Large Work Trucks (33,001+ lbs): The biggest of the big, like fire trucks, massive dump trucks, and heavy-hauling semis
The Super Duty Beasts
Manufacturers like Ford (F-450) and Dodge (Ram 4500/5500) push the limits with “super duty” models starting around 8,000+ lbs of curb weight.
These behemoths are for seriously specialized jobs.
Choosing the Right Truck
Truck weight isn’t just a number. Consider:
- Your towing needs: Don’t overload your truck’s capabilities.
- Payload: How much can it actually carry?
- Fuel economy: Weight = thirst
- Job suitability: Is a one-ton overkill for light work?
| Truck Category | Average Curb Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|
| Half-ton Pickup | 5500 |
| Three-quarter-ton Pickup | 6000 |
| One-ton Pickup | 9000 |
| Small Work Truck | 12000 |
| Medium Work Truck | 18000 |
| Large Medium Work Truck | 23000 |
| Large Work Truck | 29000 |
| Extra Large Work Truck | 38000 |
| Super Duty Truck | 12500 |
Don’t Guess…Check the Charts!
Consult reliable truck weight charts and your dealer for specific truck weights before you buy.
And remember, hauling a camper is serious business – go for a three-quarter-ton or one-ton at a minimum to ensure power and stability on the road.
Sources
- Arnold & Itkin: How Much Do Trucks Weigh https://www.arnolditkin.com/blog/truck-accidents/how-much-trucks-weigh/
- J.D Power: How Much Does a Truck Weigh? https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-much-does-a-truck-weigh
- DualLiner: How Much Does a Pickup Truck Weigh? https://www.dualliner.com/blog/how-much-does-a-pickup-truck-weigh
- OnSite Truck AZ: How Much Does a Semi Truck Weigh? https://www.onsitetruckaz.com/post/how-much-does-a-semi-truck-weigh-ultimate-guide-2022
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ (for information on truck weight regulations)
Vehicle Class By Weight
Vehicles By Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings
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