What class is a 5500 truck?

A 5500 truck is a type of commercial vehicle that falls under the Class 5 category of the United States vehicle classification system. This system categorizes vehicles based on their Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely carry, including the weight of the vehicle itself, passengers, and cargo.

What is a Class 5 Truck?

Class 5 trucks have a GVWR between 16,001 and 19,500 pounds. These vehicles are typically used for a variety of commercial and industrial applications, such as delivery, construction, and utility work. Some common examples of Class 5 trucks include the Ford F-550, Chevrolet Silverado 5500, and Ram 5500.

Key Characteristics of a 5500 Truck

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Between 16,001 and 19,500 pounds


• Payload Capacity: Typically between 5,000 and 8,000 pounds


• Engine Power: Ranging from 300 to 400 horsepower, often with diesel engines


• Towing Capacity: Can tow up to 30,000 pounds, depending on the model and configuration


• Applications: Commonly used for delivery, construction, utility work, and other commercial applications

The 5500 designation refers to the specific model of the truck, which is determined by the manufacturer. For example, the Ford F-550 is a Class 5 truck, while the Chevrolet Silverado 5500 and Ram 5500 are also Class 5 vehicles.

Regulatory Requirements for Class 5 Trucks

Due to their size and weight, Class 5 trucks are subject to various regulatory requirements, such as:

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL): Drivers of Class 5 trucks typically need a CDL to operate the vehicle legally.


• Inspection and Maintenance: Class 5 trucks must undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are safe and roadworthy.


• Licensing and Registration: Class 5 trucks must be properly licensed and registered in the state where they are operated.

Understanding the class and characteristics of a 5500 truck is important for businesses and individuals who rely on these vehicles for their commercial operations. By knowing the capabilities and regulatory requirements of a Class 5 truck, you can ensure that you are using the right vehicle for the job and operating it safely and legally.

What class truck is a 5500?

The Class 5 truck gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) ranges from 16001–19500 lb (7258–8845 kg). Examples of trucks in this class include the International TerraStar, GMC 5500.
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What is considered a class 4 truck?

A Class 4 truck is a medium-duty vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) between 14,001 and 16,000 pounds. These trucks are commonly used for commercial purposes like local delivery, and examples include box trucks, walk-in vans, and some heavy-duty pickup trucks. 
Weight and classification

• GVWR: 14,001 to 16,000 pounds.
• Class: Medium-duty vehicle, according to the U.S. Federal Highway Administration classification system. 

Common uses

• City and local delivery services
• Box trucks
• Walk-in vans
• Makeshift ambulances or other utility vehicles, often built on a chassis cab foundation
• Some heavy-duty pickup trucks, such as the Ford F-450 

Examples of Class 4 vehicles
Ford F-450 Super Duty, Ford E-450, and Some models from manufacturers like Hino and Mitsubishi Fuso.

Does a Dodge 5500 require a CDL?

You may need a CDL to drive a Ram 5500 depending on its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and whether you are towing a trailer. If the vehicle's GVWR is 26,001 pounds or more, you will need a CDL. Furthermore, if the total Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) (the truck plus the trailer) is 26,001 pounds or more, and the trailer's GVWR is over 10,000 pounds, a CDL is also required. 
When a CDL is likely required

• Heavy truck: If your specific Ram 5500 model has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, you will need a CDL. 
• Towing a heavy trailer: If the combined weight (GCWR) of the truck and the trailer is over 26,001 pounds, and the trailer itself has a GVWR of over 10,000 pounds, a CDL is needed. 

When a CDL may not be required

• Lighter configurations: Some Ram 5500 models are built with a GVWR below 26,001 pounds. 
• Towing a lighter trailer: If the combined GCWR is under 26,001 pounds, even if the truck's GVWR is over 10,000 pounds, you do not need a CDL. 
• Specific non-commercial uses: If the vehicle is registered as an RV, or used for certain farm purposes, a CDL may not be required, depending on state law. 

How to be certain

• Check the GVWR: Look for the GVWR on the driver's side doorjamb sticker, as this is the most reliable indicator for a single vehicle. 
• Check the trailer's GVWR: Find the GVWR on the trailer's data plate to determine its maximum weight rating. 
• Calculate the GCWR: Add the truck's GVWR and the trailer's GVWR to get the total GCWR. 
• Consult your local DMV: Because regulations can vary by state, always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm the requirements for your specific situation. 

Is a 5500 a 2 ton truck?

No, a "5500" truck is not a 2-ton truck; it is a Class 5 medium-duty truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) between 16,001 and 19,500 pounds. The "ton" ratings are outdated, but a 5500 is generally considered to have a heavier-duty suspension and chassis than a typical 1-ton truck (like a 3500). 

• Classification: The "5500" (or similar models like the Ford F-550 and GMC 5500) falls into Class 5, which is above the 1-ton classification (Class 3). 
• Capacity: While a 3500 is considered a 1-ton truck, the 5500 is a much larger and more capable vehicle designed for heavy-duty commercial use. 
• Heavy-duty components: The 5500 features a thicker frame and a more robust suspension system to handle its higher GVWR.