How much can a Ford Ranger haul in bed?
In most configurations, the Ford Ranger can carry up to about 1,860 pounds in its bed, with typical payloads ranging roughly from 1,500 to 1,760 pounds depending on cab, bed, and drivetrain. The exact figure for any given truck is defined by its GVWR and curb weight, so the door sticker or Ford’s official spec should be consulted for your build.
Payload for a Ranger is determined by the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) minus its curb weight, and it includes the combined weight of passengers and cargo. Heavier equipment or additional occupants reduce the available bed payload, and four-wheel drive variants often carry slightly different ratings than rear-drive models. Because numbers vary by year and trim, always verify the exact specification for your particular truck.
Payload by configuration
Below are typical payload ranges seen in recent Ranger configurations to give you a sense of how much can sit in the bed depending on setup. Exact numbers can vary by year and trim.
- Best-case payload: up to about 1,860 pounds (844 kg) for a 2WD Ranger with a SuperCrew cab and a 5-foot bed configuration in recent years.
- Common range for crew-cab and four-wheel-drive variants: roughly 1,500–1,760 pounds (680–800 kg).
- Lower or higher values exist with other equipment or options, but most standard builds fall within the 1,500–1,860 pound range.
Conclusion: The Ranger’s bed payload is configuration dependent. For planning, assume the higher end only for the best-case setup and verify using your door sticker or Ford’s official specs for your exact vehicle.
Calculating payload for your Ranger
To determine how much you can haul in the bed for a given load, start with the formal payload figure and subtract payload-sapping factors like passenger weight. The general calculation uses the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) minus the curb weight to yield payload, then subtracts cabin occupant weight to determine available bed cargo.
Steps to estimate your load safely:
- Check the door jamb sticker or the Ford build sheet to confirm your Ranger’s GVWR and curb weight.
- Compute payload = GVWR − curb weight.
- Subtract the combined weight of all occupants in the cab from the payload to get bed cargo capacity.
- Compare your planned bed cargo weight to the remaining payload and ensure the load is evenly distributed and secured with proper restraints.
- Remember that payload figures are separate from towing capacity; towing uses a different weight budget and weight distribution considerations.
Conclusion: By calculating payload this way, you can plan loads accurately and avoid exceeding the Ranger’s weight limits, which helps maintain handling, braking, and safety.
Other loading considerations
Even if your bed load is within payload limits, consider practical constraints like weight distribution, tie-down points, and the potential impact on ride quality and handling. Heavy, bulky items should be centered and secured to minimize shifting, and oversized loads may require distribution across the bed and the hitch area.
- Distribute weight evenly across the bed to maintain stable handling and braking.
- Use rated tie-downs, ropes, or straps and anchor them to proven bed anchors or strap points.
- Avoid stacking items higher than the tailgate height to minimize hazards when opening or closing the tailgate.
Conclusion: Thoughtful loading practices protect you, other road users, and the Ranger’s long-term performance.
Summary
The Ford Ranger can haul a practical bed load typically ranging from about 1,500 to 1,760 pounds, with a maximum potential payload around 1,860 pounds depending on configuration. Exact numbers vary by year, trim, cab and bed combination, and drivetrain, so always verify your specific vehicle’s specs and calculate payload before loading heavy cargo. Properly securing loads and balancing weight improves safety and handling.
