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How much weight can a Ford Transit carry in the back?

In general, most Ford Transit cargo vans can carry roughly 3,000 to 4,600 pounds of cargo in the back, depending on configuration. The exact number depends on the model year and options, so you should verify the GVWR and curb weight for your specific vehicle.


What determines cargo capacity


Payload capacity is determined by the vehicle’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) minus its curb weight. Payload equals the maximum total weight the vehicle can carry, including cargo and passengers. If you plan to add passengers or fuel, you must subtract their weight from the payload to determine how much cargo you can safely load in the back. The Transit is offered in multiple GVWR configurations, which is why payload varies across models.


Typical ranges by configuration


Below are approximate payload ranges by common Transit configurations. Actual numbers vary by year, trim, and wheelbase. Check the door jamb placard or the build sheet for exact figures.



  • Ford Transit Cargo Van, 150 configuration (short wheelbase, standard roof): approximately 3,000–3,600 pounds of payload

  • Ford Transit Cargo Van, 250 configuration (mid/long wheelbase): approximately 3,600–4,200 pounds

  • Ford Transit Cargo Van, 350 configuration (long wheelbase, standard/high roof): approximately 4,000–4,600 pounds

  • Ford Transit Cargo Van with heavy-duty 350 HD/350/450 options (higher GVWR variants): approximately 4,400–5,000 pounds


These ranges reflect the typical spread across common U.S. configurations and are intended to guide planning. Always confirm with the exact vehicle’s GVWR and curb weight.


How to determine the exact capacity for your specific van


To calculate the precise available cargo capacity for your Transit, use these steps:



  1. Locate the GVWR on the manufacturer’s door jamb placard or the owner’s manual. This is the maximum weight the vehicle is designed to carry when fully loaded, including passengers and cargo.

  2. Find the curb weight (the weight of the van with no payload) from the label or by weighing the vehicle at a scale.

  3. Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the total payload capacity (cargo plus passengers).

  4. If you plan to carry passengers, subtract their expected weight from the payload to determine how much cargo you can safely load in the back.


Keep in mind that fuel, tools, equipment, and cargo placement can affect handling and braking. Never exceed the stated payload or GVWR.


Summary


The Ford Transit offers a range of payload capacities that depend on GVWR, wheelbase, roof height, and variant. In practice, most cargo configurations provide roughly 3,000 to 4,600 pounds of payload, with heavier-duty options approaching about 5,000 pounds under the right setup. Always verify your specific vehicle’s labels and calculate payload based on curb weight and planned occupants.

How much weight can a Ford Transit 250 carry?


A Ford Transit 250 can carry a maximum payload of roughly 3,000 to 4,800 pounds, depending on its specific configuration like wheelbase, roof height, and options. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is around 9,070 lbs, and this figure represents the total weight of the vehicle plus its payload and occupants. The exact payload capacity for any specific vehicle is listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the door jamb.
 
Factors that influence payload capacity

  • Wheelbase and roof height: These can change the vehicle's base weight, affecting how much payload it can carry. 
  • Configuration: Options like engine size, drivetrain, and other accessories will impact the final payload capacity. 
  • Weight of occupants and accessories: The weight of passengers and any added equipment needs to be subtracted from the maximum payload. 

Finding your specific vehicle's capacity
  • The most accurate way to know the exact weight your specific Ford Transit 250 can carry is to check the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's side door jamb. This label will list the specific payload capacity for that exact vehicle. 



What is the payload capacity of the 2019 Ford Transit?


cargo, or haul up to 4,640 lbs. of max. payload.



How much weight can you put in the back of a Ford Transit van?


Transit 290 has a payload capacity of 895kg to 936kg. Transit 310 vans get a payload capacity of 993kg to 1136kg. Transit 330 has a payload capacity of 1239kg to 1337kg. Transit 350 vans get a payload capacity of 1277kg to 1472kg.



How much weight can my Ford Transit carry?


The Ford Transit weight capacity varies significantly by model (150, 250, or 350) and configuration, with the Transit 350 offering the highest payload, up to around 5,114 pounds. The maximum payload for a specific van is listed on the door jamb sticker as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is the total weight of the vehicle and its cargo. The towing capacity is separate and can be up to 6,900 pounds or more depending on the configuration and required equipment.
 
Payload capacity

  • Transit 150: Approximately 3,600 pounds. 
  • Transit 250: Over 4,000 pounds. 
  • Transit 350: Up to 5,114 pounds or more, depending on the configuration. 
  • Note: These are maximums. The actual payload depends on factors like wheelbase, roof height, and options, and is detailed on the vehicle's door jamb sticker. 

Towing capacity
  • Standard: Up to 5,000 pounds when towing with a bumper alone. 
  • With required equipment: A 6,900-pound towing capacity is available, and can be higher with certain configurations and options. 
  • Note: Exceeding a trailer weight of 5,000 pounds requires the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. The total weight of the vehicle and trailer cannot exceed the combined Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). 

Important considerations
  • Always check the door jamb sticker: For the most accurate payload, check the GVWR listed on the yellow sticker in the driver's side door jamb. 
  • Payload vs. GVWR: Payload is the weight of the cargo and passengers, while GVWR is the total maximum weight of the vehicle, including the vehicle's own weight, cargo, and passengers. 
  • Upgrading for heavy loads: If you frequently carry heavy loads, consider a 250 or 350 model to avoid overloading the vehicle. Overloading can have insurance and legal consequences. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.