How heavy is a 5500 truck?
A 5500-class truck typically weighs about 9,000–12,000 pounds when empty, and carries a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of roughly 19,500–22,000 pounds in common configurations. In other words, you’re looking at a mid-to-heavy-duty work vehicle whose exact weight depends on body, cab, and equipment.
The term "5500" is used across multiple manufacturers to designate a mid-to-heavy-duty truck in the same general class. Because models differ in cab size, bed type, and added equipment (like dump bodies, tool compartments, and towing gear), the actual weight can vary significantly from one truck to another. This article breaks down typical ranges and what you should check when weighing a specific unit.
What the numbers mean and how weight varies
Understanding weight starts with three key figures: curb weight (empty), GVWR (the maximum allowed weight including payload), and payload capacity (GVWR minus curb weight). The following ranges reflect common configurations you’ll encounter in the 5500 class.
Typical weight ranges for common 5500-class configurations
Before listing weight ranges, note that these are approximate and depend on factors such as cab style, bed length, and optional equipment.
- Curb weight (unladen) in standard configurations: about 9,000–12,000 pounds (4,100–5,400 kg).
- GVWR (maximum allowed weight) for many common 5500s: about 19,500–22,000 pounds (8,865–9,989 kg).
- Payload capacity (maximum load you can carry): typically 7,500–12,000 pounds (3,400–5,400 kg), depending on body and equipment.
In practice, the weight you’ll deal with depends on the body and equipment installed. A light service body or flatbed will keep weight near the lower end of the range, while a heavy-welded dump body, crane, or large box could push curb weight higher and compress payload capacity.
Concluding note: the exact weight is a function of configuration. Always verify the door jamb GVWR label on a specific vehicle to know its precise limits.
How body type and usage impact weight and payload
Different work bodies and configurations radically change the weight profile. A 5500 with a compact service body weighs less than one with a fully equipped dump bed or an oversized box. Towing setups, fuel capacity, and added accessories (winches, racks, and crane mounts) also shift the overall mass and available payload.
- Light-duty or minimal bodies: closer to the lower curb weight, higher available payload within the same GVWR.
- Medium-duty bodies (service, flatbed with thin sides): moderate increase in curb weight; payload remains substantial if GVWR is high enough.
- Heavier bodies (dump, crane, large box): greater curb weight, payload capacity reduced accordingly, but GVWR may be higher if the chassis is rated for it.
For professionals planning a fleet or a one-off purchase, the practical takeaway is to match the truck’s payload and GVWR to the expected loads and duty cycle, rather than focusing on curb weight alone.
How to verify the weight of a specific 5500 model
To determine the exact weight figures for a particular truck you’re evaluating, follow these steps:
- Check the door jamb sticker for GVWR and axle ratings.
- Look up the manufacturer’s spec sheet for the exact model year, cab/bed configuration, and equipment.
- Weigh the truck on a public or certified scale with and without the payload you plan to carry to confirm payload capacity.
Knowing both curb weight and GVWR helps you calculate payload and assess whether a given body or accessory package fits your needs without exceeding limits.
Summary
In short, a 5500 truck is a mid-to-heavy-duty vehicle whose weight varies by configuration. Typical empty (curb) weight sits around 9,000–12,000 pounds, with a GVWR commonly in the 19,500–22,000 pound range, and payload capacities that range widely depending on body and options. Always verify the specific GVWR and curb weight for the exact truck you’re considering, as the same label (“5500”) covers a broad spectrum of configurations. This careful check ensures safe operation and optimal payload for your intended use.
How many tons is a 5500 truck?
A 5500 truck is considered a 2-ton truck, though its actual capacity depends on its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), which typically ranges from 17,50017 comma 50017,500 to 19,50019 comma 50019,500 pounds. This is a commercial-grade truck with a robust frame and suspension, designed for heavy-duty commercial use.
- "2-ton" designation: The "5500" model number is a classification, and the truck is widely referred to as a "2-ton" truck because of its heavy-duty components, similar to how a 3500 is considered a "one-ton" truck.
- GVWR: The actual weight capacity is defined by the GVWR, which for a 5500 truck falls within the Class 5 range of 16,00116 comma 00116,001 to 19,50019 comma 50019,500 pounds.
- Commercial grade: These are not standard pickup trucks but commercial chassis cab trucks, engineered for demanding applications like dump trucks, box trucks, and service vehicles.
What is the gross vehicle weight rating of the 5500?
The primary difference between these vehicles is the GVWR or gross vehicle weight rating. The GVWR of the 4500 HD ranges from 14,001 to 16,500 pounds. The GVWR of the 5500 HD ranges from 17,500 to 19,500 pounds, and the GVWR of the 6500 HD ranges from 21,500 to 23,500 pounds.
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How much does a 4500 truck weigh?
The curb weight typically ranges from: Standard Cab: Around 8,000 to 10,000 pounds. Crew Cab: Around 9,000 to 11,000 pounds.
