How much weight can you put in a 3500?
Payload on a 3500-series pickup is typically 4,000–7,000 pounds, depending on configuration.
To understand this question in full: the payload is the weight a truck is legally allowed to carry, including passengers, cargo in the bed, and any installed equipment. The exact limit varies with factors such as cab style, bed length, engine and drivetrain, and whether the rear wheels are single or dual. This article explains how to read the numbers, how to calculate your truck’s exact capacity, and how to plan loads for everyday use or heavy-duty tasks.
Understanding payload and how it’s defined
Payload is the combined weight of everything the vehicle carries beyond its own curb weight. It is calculated as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) minus the curb weight. GVWR is the maximum safe weight of the fully loaded vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and fluids. Curb weight is the weight of the vehicle with standard equipment and fluids, but without occupants or cargo. On 3500-series trucks, payload can vary widely because of differences in cab and bed configurations, engines, transmissions, and whether the truck is SRW (single rear wheel) or DRW (dual rear wheel).
How to determine your exact payload
To find your truck’s precise payload, you’ll need to gather a few key numbers and then do a simple subtraction. Use the steps below to confirm your specific capacity.
- Check the door jamb sticker or the manufacturer’s specification sheets for GVWR and curb weight.
- Subtract curb weight from GVWR to get the base payload rating.
- Account for additional weight from passengers, cargo, and installed equipment to ensure you stay within the rating.
- Remember that DRW configurations and certain options (like heavy transmissions or added hardware) can raise GVWR and alter payload capacity.
In practice, the usable payload is the amount you can carry without exceeding GVWR. Always reserve a safety margin to accommodate fuel, fluids, and unexpected loads.
Payload ranges by popular 3500 models
Across the class, payload ratings vary with configuration. The numbers below reflect typical ranges and are not a substitute for your vehicle’s official spec sheet. For exact figures, consult the door sticker or the manufacturer’s specifications for your model year and trim.
- Ford F-350 Super Duty: About 3,800–7,000+ pounds of payload depending on cab/bed choice, drivetrain, and whether it’s SRW or DRW.
- Ram 3500: Roughly 4,000–7,500 pounds of payload depending on configuration and options.
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD / GMC Sierra 3500HD: Generally around 4,000–7,000 pounds, with variations by cab/bed and DRW/SRW setup.
Note: Dual rear wheel (DRW) versions often have higher GVWR and can offer higher potential payload, but real-world payload is still bounded by axle, tire, and braking limits. Always verify the specific figure for your exact build.
Other towing considerations that affect payload planning
Payload is closely related to, but distinct from, towing capacity. When pulling a trailer, tongue weight ( hitch load ) typically runs about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight. Plan accordingly to avoid overloading the payload or exceeding hitch and hitch-assembly limits. Distribute weight evenly, consider a weight-distributing hitch for larger trailers, and account for heavy accessories ( campers, bed racks, tool boxes ) that add to the payload load.
Tongue weight and trailer coupling
Tongue weight is a portion of a trailer's weight that sits on the hitch. It can significantly affect handling and braking if it approaches the truck’s payload limit. Always verify that your payload plus tongue weight stays within GVWR and ensure the braking system, tires, and suspension are rated for the load.
Summary
In short, a 3500-series pickup’s payload varies by configuration, but most trucks in this class can carry roughly 4,000–7,000 pounds of payload when loaded within spec. Determine your exact capacity by checking GVWR and curb weight, then subtracting to find the base payload, and finally accounting for passengers and cargo. Always consult the vehicle’s door sticker and manufacturer documentation for your specific model year and build, and leave a safety margin to accommodate real-world loading and driving conditions.
Conclusion
Understanding payload helps you load your 3500 safely and efficiently, whether you’re carrying tools for a job site, camping gear, or a heavy trailer. By applying the GVWR minus curb weight formula and verifying figures against official sources, you can avoid overloading your truck and preserve performance, safety, and warranty coverage.
What is the payload capacity of a 3500?
Payload Capacity Explained
In addition to its towing prowess, the Ram 3500 also offers exceptional payload capacity. With a maximum payload rating of 7,680 pounds, you can carry heavy loads in the truck bed without compromising performance.
How much weight can you put in a 3500 truck?
What Defines Payload in Heavy-Duty Trucks
| Truck Classification | Typical Payload Range | Key Structural Elements |
|---|---|---|
| One-Ton (3500) | 4,000-7,590 lbs | Fully boxed frame, leaf springs, optional DRW |
| Ram 3500 (2025) | Up to 7,590 lbs | High-strength steel frame, advanced suspension |
How much weight can you put in the bed of a Ram 3500?
The 6.4-litre V8 engine has a max payload capacity of 7,680 pounds. The 6.7-litre diesel turbo engine has a max payload capacity of 6,560 pounds. The high-output 6.7-litre diesel turbo engine has a max payload capacity of 6,910 pounds.
How much weight can you put in the bed of a Chevy 3500?
Chevy Silverado 3500HD
| Truck | Drivetrain | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Chevy 3500HD LT | 4WD | 4,338 lbs |
| Chevy 3500HD LT DRW | 2WD | 7,442 lbs |
| Chevy 3500HD LT DRW | 4WD | 7,145 lbs |
| Chevy 3500HD LT DRW | 2WD Diesel | 6,523 lbs |
