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Is a Ram 3500 considered a 1 ton truck?


When it comes to heavy-duty trucks, classifications like "1-ton" are often used to describe their capabilities. If you're considering a Ram 3500 for your needs, you might be wondering whether it falls into the 1-ton category. In this article, we'll break down what "1-ton" means and how the Ram 3500 fits into this classification.


Understanding Truck Classifications


The terms "half-ton," "three-quarter-ton," and "1-ton" are traditional ways of categorizing pickup trucks based on their payload capacity. While these terms originated from the truck's ability to carry a specific weight in the bed, modern trucks often exceed these capacities. Here's a quick breakdown:



  • Half-Ton Trucks: Typically include models like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500. These are light-duty trucks.

  • Three-Quarter-Ton Trucks: Include models like the Ford F-250, Ram 2500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500. These are medium-duty trucks.

  • 1-Ton Trucks: Include models like the Ford F-350, Ram 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 3500. These are heavy-duty trucks designed for serious towing and hauling.


Why the Ram 3500 Is Considered a 1-Ton Truck


The Ram 3500 is classified as a 1-ton truck because it falls into the heavy-duty category and is designed to handle significant payloads and towing capacities. While the "1-ton" designation is more of a legacy term, the Ram 3500's capabilities far exceed the original 2,000-pound payload associated with this classification. Depending on the configuration, the Ram 3500 can handle payloads of over 7,000 pounds and tow up to 37,090 pounds when properly equipped.


Key Features of the Ram 3500


Here are some standout features that make the Ram 3500 a top choice for those needing a heavy-duty truck:



  • Engine Options: The Ram 3500 offers powerful engine choices, including the 6.4L HEMI V8 and the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel.

  • Towing Capacity: With the right configuration, it boasts one of the highest towing capacities in its class.

  • Advanced Technology: Features like trailer monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a user-friendly infotainment system make it a modern workhorse.

  • Durability: Built with a reinforced frame and heavy-duty suspension, the Ram 3500 is designed to handle tough jobs.


Conclusion


Yes, the Ram 3500 is considered a 1-ton truck. While the term "1-ton" may no longer directly correlate to its payload capacity, it remains a useful way to categorize trucks based on their size and capabilities. If you're in the market for a heavy-duty truck that can handle demanding tasks, the Ram 3500 is an excellent choice.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a 1 ton truck?


Most one-ton pickups are classified as heavy-duty trucks, as they can carry a lot more than just 2,000 lbs, either in the bed, in the cabin, or both. However, the one-ton pickup category begins at 2,000 lbs, whereas with the half-ton category, those trucks begin at 1,000 lbs.



Is the Ram 3500 a heavy duty truck?


Combining impressive capability for the jobsite and new drive-enhancing features for the day-to-day, the new 2025 Ram 3500 is a hardworking pickup truck that's built for both power and play. These are the Most Advanced Ram Heavy Duty Pickups Ever 1.



Is a 3500 a 2 ton truck?


Silverado 3500 HD - One-ton pickup, heavy-duty
This includes passengers along with all cargo placed inside the bed, inside the cabin, and the trailer weight placed on the tow hitch. In decades past, a half-ton pickup would be expected to have a payload capacity of 1,000 pounds (or equivalent to half of a ton).



What is a 3500 truck considered?


These numbers actually reference the capability and class of each type of pickup. This can be helpful when considering which Silverado is right for your needs. Silverado 1500 - Half-ton pickup, light-duty. Silverado 2500 HD - Three-quarter ton pickup, heavy-duty. Silverado 3500 HD - One-ton pickup, heavy-duty.



What class truck is a Ram 3500?


The Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 3500, Ford F-350, and Ram 3500 are known as "one ton" pickups. Similar schemes exist for vans and SUVs (e.g. a 1-ton Dodge Van or a 1⁄2-ton GMC Suburban), medium duty trucks (e.g. the 1 1⁄2-ton Ford F-550) and some military vehicles, like the ubiquitous deuce-and-a-half.



Is a Ram 3500 a 1 ton truck?


2022 Ram 3500 Offers Lease Deals & Model Information - 1 Ton Truck.



How do you tell if a truck is a 1 ton?


Just in the last five years alone, payloads have increased by several hundred pounds for most half-ton trucks, putting payload capacity around the one-ton mark. The same is true of one-ton trucks, which are typically designated with the 3500 after the truck's name, and now have payloads rising above 7,000 pounds.



Why is a 3500 called a 1 ton?


Defining 1500, 2500, 3500 Meaning
The 1500 represented half-ton capacity, the 2500 represented three-quarter-ton capacity, and the 3500 represented one-ton capacity. That's why you may see the 1500 called a “half ton.” But nowadays, these designations refer primarily to the truck's purpose.



Why are 3500 trucks called a 1 ton?


Defining 1500, 2500, 3500 Meaning
The 1500 represented half-ton capacity, the 2500 represented three-quarter-ton capacity, and the 3500 represented one-ton capacity. That's why you may see the 1500 called a “half ton.” But nowadays, these designations refer primarily to the truck's purpose.



Is a 3500HD a 1 ton truck?


One Ton Truck
The Chevrolet 1 ton truck, Silverado 3500HD, is all about payload and towing. This is the class of truck you will want to be looking at when hauling and heavy towing. When this is the number one priority and is meant to be used as a daily work truck, the 3500 is for you.


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.