Is a 5500 a medium duty truck?
Yes. A 5500 is generally considered a medium-duty vehicle, falling in Class 5–6 by GVWR (about 19,500–26,000 pounds). Some configurations can push into Class 7 if heavily optioned.
The 5500 designation appears on several brands (Ford F-550; International 5500; Chevrolet/GMC 5500HD) and is used for medium-duty chassis designed for upfits like dumps, service bodies, ambulances, and other vocational applications. The label reflects weight rating (GVWR) rather than marketing language alone.
How GVWR Defines Class and Duty Rating
Understanding how GVWR maps to classes helps explain where 5500 fits in. The main U.S. classes are:
- Class 4: GVWR 14,001–16,000 lb
- Class 5: GVWR 16,001–19,500 lb
- Class 6: GVWR 19,501–26,000 lb
- Class 7: GVWR 26,001–33,000 lb
Note that some sources group Class 5–7 as "medium-duty." The practical takeaway is that a typical 5500 sits in Class 6, i.e., medium-duty, with GVWR commonly around 19,500–26,000 lb. Always verify the exact GVWR on a given unit to confirm its class.
Examples of 5500 Chassis and Their Uses
Popular 5500-branded chassis are used across a range of vocational applications. The following examples illustrate typical GVWR ranges and uses:
- Ford F-550: common for service bodies, light dumps, utility trucks, and heavy-duty tow setups
- International 5500: used for ambulances, bucket trucks, upfits, and vocational service vehicles
- Chevrolet/GMC 5500HD: applied to refuse trucks, street maintenance, and emergency-response upfits
These examples show the common vocational profiles for 5500-class trucks and why they are categorized as medium-duty. If a fleet uses heavy upfits or dual-rear-wheel configurations, GVWR may reach the upper end of Class 6 or enter Class 7 territory.
Practical considerations for buyers
When evaluating a 5500 for purchase or lease, consider GVWR, GCWR, payload capacity, drivetrain, and upfit compatibility. The model name alone does not determine the exact class; the GVWR is the controlling factor for classification and regulatory requirements.
Summary
A 5500 is typically a medium-duty truck in U.S. classifications, usually in Class 6 (GVWR ~19,500–26,000 lb). Some configurations with heavier upfits can approach Class 7. Always check the GVWR on the specific vehicle to determine its exact class and suitability for a given task.
