How much weight can you put in the back of a Hilux?
In most modern Hilux pickups, the bed payload typically falls around 1,000–1,300 kg (2,200–2,860 lb) when the cab is not loaded with people. Always verify the exact figure for your vehicle on the door placard or in the owner's manual, as it varies by model year, trim, and market.
Payload is the total load the vehicle can carry, including passengers in the cab and cargo in the bed. The Hilux’s capacity depends on factors such as GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating), curb weight, drivetrain, suspension, and tire ratings. If you plan to haul regularly, you should consider weight distribution, axle limits, and securing methods to stay within safe limits.
What determines the payload on the Hilux
Key factors that set the maximum load you can carry in the bed include the vehicle’s GVWR, curb weight, and the ratings for the rear axle and tires. The location and weight of occupants in the cab also subtract from the bed’s available payload.
- GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating): the maximum total weight of the vehicle including passengers, cargo, and all fluids.
- Curb weight: the weight of the vehicle with standard equipment, fluids, and fuel but no payload or passengers.
- Payload capacity: GVWR minus curb weight; the bed load must not exceed this figure after accounting for occupants.
- Rear axle and tire load ratings: per-axle limits that constrain how much weight can be placed over each axle.
- Weight distribution: placing heavier items over or near the rear axle improves stability, but you must not exceed axle or tire limits.
Bottom line: the exact payload is vehicle-specific. Always check the door jamb placard and the owner’s manual for your exact numbers, and account for any passengers you carry when planning cargo.
Typical payload ranges for Hilux configurations
These ranges provide a practical sense of what most Hilux owners can expect, but they vary by market, year, trim, and equipment. Use the official ratings for precision on your specific vehicle.
- Most contemporary Hilux double-cab variants: about 1,000–1,200 kg (2,200–2,645 lb) of payload.
- Some markets or higher-spec trims with heavier curb weight: up to around 1,300 kg (2,860 lb).
Because the numbers can shift with changes in tires, add-ons, or factory options, verify the exact payload with the placard on your truck and in the owner's manual. Proper load distribution and secure fastening are essential for safe operation.
How to calculate your Hilux payload
To determine the usable payload for your exact configuration and load scenario, you can follow these steps:
- Find the GVWR on the door jamb placard or in the owner's manual.
- Find the curb weight (unloaded, with fluids) from the spec sheet or weigh the vehicle if needed.
- Compute maximum payload: GVWR minus curb weight.
- Subtract the weight of any occupants in the cab to determine how much bed payload remains for cargo.
- Ensure the total does not exceed any per-axle or tire load ratings.
Note: This approach gives the theoretical maximum. Real-world loads can be affected by fuel, accessories, spare tire quantity, and securing equipment, so always err on the side of caution.
Safety and practical loading tips
Properly loading a Hilux helps maintain handling, braking, and stability. Consider these guidelines when planning any heavy or long trips.
- Distribute weight toward the rear axle but stay within axle and tire ratings.
- Secure cargo with straps and anchors; use a tonneau cover or bed rack to prevent movement.
- Avoid placing heavy items on the tailgate or toward the far rear; keep the center of gravity as low as possible.
- Factor in passengers: heavier cab loads reduce bed payload accordingly.
- Regularly inspect tires and suspension after heavy loads for signs of wear or stress.
Overloading a Hilux can degrade braking, steering, and stability, and may violate local regulations. Always stay within the manufacturer’s published limits and adjust your load accordingly.
Summary
The Toyota Hilux’s bed payload is vehicle-specific, but most modern variants tolerate about 1,000–1,300 kg (2,200–2,860 lb) of total payload, including occupants. To determine your exact limit, consult the GVWR and curb weight on the door placard or in the owner’s manual, and account for all people and cargo. Use proper load distribution, secure all items, and respect per-axle tire ratings to maintain safety and performance.
How much weight can you put in the tray of a HiLux?
The vehicle's kerb weight is 1495kg, and its payload capacity is 1205kg. It can tow trailers weighing up to 2500kg. Ratchet straps and netting, tied down to anchorage points, can help secure the load to the ute's tray safely.
How much weight can you put in the bed of a 2500 truck?
A 2500 truck can carry a significant weight in its bed, with the exact amount varying by make, model, and configuration, but generally ranging from 3,000 to over 4,000 pounds. For example, a 2025 Ram 2500 can have a maximum payload of up to 4,000 pounds, while a 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD can haul up to 3,979 pounds.
Factors that influence payload capacity
- Engine: The engine choice affects payload. A gas engine, like the 6.4L V-8 in a Ram 2500, may offer a higher payload, while a diesel may prioritize towing.
- Trim level: Different trim levels have different options and features, which can impact the truck's weight and, in turn, its payload capacity. For instance, some heavy-duty features can decrease payload.
- Configuration: The cab size, drivetrain (4x4 vs. 4x2), and bed length all affect the final payload capacity. For example, a 4x4 with a long bed might have a different capacity than a 4x2 with a short bed.
- Specific model: Each truck manufacturer has its own specifications. For example, a 2025 Ram 2500 with the 6.4L HEMI V8 has a higher maximum payload capacity compared to a 2024 Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel.
- Towing vs. payload: It's important to distinguish between towing and payload. Payload refers to the weight you can carry in the truck's bed, while towing is the weight you can pull behind the truck.
- Weight of the truck itself: A heavier truck, with more features, will have a lower payload capacity. The weight of passengers and any aftermarket accessories also counts against the total payload.
What is the carrying capacity of the 2019 Toyota HiLux?
To that end, the Toyota HiLux Workmate 4x2 single-cab/chassis on test here has a maximum payload of 1240kg, and while its braked towing limit is 2500kg – a tonne below that of many of the heavy hitters in the broader ute category – it comes with far more palatable pricing.
How much weight can a HiLux carry?
For example, a 2017 Toyota Hilux SR5 4X4 Double Cab Pickup has a GVM of 3000kg - meaning you can load 3 tonnes of passengers, luggage, bull bars and fuel and operate the vehicle safely and normally.
