How many tons is a Dodge Ram 2500?
In short: a Ram 2500 weighs about 3.0–3.8 tons in curb weight, while its maximum legal vehicle weight (GVWR) sits around 5.0–5.8 tons. Payload capacity typically runs about 1.5–2.0 tons. Numbers vary by cab style, bed length, drivetrain, and options.
Weight figures you’ll encounter for the Ram 2500
The Ram 2500’s weight is described using several distinct measures. Curb weight is the vehicle’s weight without cargo or passengers. GVWR is the maximum combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and fuel. Payload is how much cargo and passengers can be added safely beyond the curb weight. All figures vary with configuration.
- Curb weight: typically about 6,000–7,600 pounds (roughly 3.0–3.8 tons), depending on cab/bed and drivetrain.
- Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR): commonly around 9,800–11,000 pounds (about 4.9–5.5 tons).
- Payload capacity: usually in the ballpark of 3,000–4,000 pounds (about 1.5–2.0 tons).
These ranges reflect common configurations for contemporary Ram 2500 models. Exact numbers depend on the specific build, including cab style (Regular vs. Crew), bed length, 4x2 vs. 4x4, and equipment packages.
How to interpret these numbers for towing and hauling
Understanding the distinctions matters for real-world use. Curb weight tells you how heavy the empty truck is. GVWR sets the upper limit for the combined weight of the truck, passengers, cargo, and fuel. Payload indicates how much you can load into the bed and cabin before reaching GVWR. Towing capacity is a separate rating that depends on engine, axle ratio, hitch setup, and cooling, and it sits alongside GVWR but is not the same as payload.
- Find the GVWR on the door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual to know the maximum permissible weight for the vehicle including cargo and passengers.
- Check the curb weight for your exact build to estimate how much payload you can add before hitting GVWR.
- Divide the relevant weight by 2000 to convert pounds to tons, if you’re comparing to a metric ton figure.
For anyone planning heavy hauling or towing, always verify the precise ratings for your specific truck configuration. These numbers can shift with year, trim, and after-market modifications.
Typical configurations and their numbers
Weight and capacity vary by cab style, bed length, and drivetrain. The following ranges illustrate common setups for modern Ram 2500 models:
- Regular Cab, 6'4" bed, 4x2: curb weight roughly 6,000–6,400 lb; GVWR about 10,000–11,000 lb; payload around 3,000–3,500 lb.
- Crew Cab, 6'4" bed, 4x2: curb weight roughly 6,800–7,200 lb; GVWR about 10,000–11,000 lb; payload around 3,200–3,800 lb.
- Crew Cab, 6'4" bed, 4x4: curb weight roughly 7,100–7,600 lb; GVWR about 11,000–11,500 lb; payload around 2,900–3,500 lb.
Note: These figures are approximate ranges intended to illustrate how weight changes with configuration. Always consult the exact specifications for the model year and build you’re considering.
Summary
The Dodge/Ram 2500 spans about 3.0–3.8 tons in curb weight and about 4.9–5.5 tons for GVWR, with payload typically around 1.5–2.0 tons. Weighing factors include cab style, bed length, drivetrain, and equipment. For precise planning, check the specific truck’s door sticker or the manufacturer’s official specifications for the exact year and configuration.
Is 2500HD a 3/4-ton?
Yes, a Chevy 2500 is a 3/4-ton truck, a heavy-duty model with a higher payload and towing capacity than the 1500 (half-ton) series. The "2500" designation indicates its three-quarter-ton rating, similar to how Ford uses F-250 and GMC uses 2500 for its heavy-duty trucks.
- Capacity: The "ton" rating is a historical and general indicator of the truck's payload and towing capacity.
- Heavy-Duty: Chevy's 2500 models are classified as heavy-duty (HD) trucks and are built for larger workloads.
- Model Numbering: The 1500 series is the half-ton, the 2500 series is the three-quarter-ton, and the 3500 series is the one-ton truck.
Is a Dodge Ram 2500 a 1-ton?
No, a Ram 2500 is not a 1-ton truck; it is a three-quarter-ton truck. The "1500," "2500," and "3500" designations in the Ram lineup represent half-ton, three-quarter-ton, and one-ton capacity trucks, respectively. The Ram 3500 is the one-ton model, designed for more demanding tasks like handling larger commercial payloads.
- Ram 1500: Half-ton truck
- Ram 2500: Three-quarter-ton truck
- Ram 3500: One-ton truck
Is a Dodge 2500 a half ton?
Defining 1500, 2500, 3500 Meaning
The 1500 represented half-ton capacity, the 2500 represented three-quarter-ton capacity, and the 3500 represented one-ton capacity.
How many tons is a Ram 2500?
A Ram 2500 typically weighs between 6,000 and 7,500 pounds, which is about 3 to 3.75 tons, depending on the specific configuration, engine, and cab size. The term "3/4 ton" refers to its heavy-duty capacity, not its actual weight in tons. For example, a base model may be around 6,000 pounds, while a diesel-powered or fully-optioned model will be on the heavier side.
Weight breakdown by configuration
- Curb weight: Ranges from approximately 6,000 to 7,500 pounds depending on the specific trim, cab, and engine.
- "3/4 ton" designation: This is a capacity classification, not the actual weight of the truck. The Ram 2500 is the three-quarter-ton model in the lineup.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the maximum weight the vehicle can be when loaded with passengers, cargo, and fuel. Many Ram 2500 models have a GVWR of 10,000 pounds, which is 5 tons.
- Examples of specific weights:
- A 2023 Tradesman with a Regular Cab is approximately 6,001 pounds.
- A 2023 Limited Longhorn with a Crew Cab and 8-ft. box is approximately 8,850 pounds.
- A 2025 Laramie with a standard GVWR is 10,000 pounds (5 tons).
