What class is a Ford F550?
The Ford F-550 is classified as a Class 6 medium‑duty truck (GVWR typically around 19,500–22,000 pounds) in Ford's Super Duty lineup. It sits near the middle of the heavy‑duty spectrum and is commonly used for vocational tasks such as towing, hauling, and service‑body configurations.
Understanding GVWR-based classification
Vehicle class in the United States is defined primarily by the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), which is the maximum allowed weight of the vehicle including cargo and passengers. The classes range from Class 1 (lightest) to Class 8 (heaviest). Class 6 covers GVWR from 19,501 to 26,000 pounds; the F-550’s GVWR places it within that band, with exact numbers varying by year and configuration.
Where the F-550 sits within Class 6
Most modern F-550 models carry a GVWR in the 19,500–22,000-pound range. This places them squarely in Class 6, which is designated for medium‑duty trucks used in vocational settings such as dump, tow, utility, and delivery work.
Key details about the F-550’s classification include:
- GVWR typically around 19,500–22,000 pounds, depending on cab choice, drivetrain, and upfits.
- Class designation: Class 6 (19,501–26,000 pounds) under standard U.S. GVWR classifications.
- Position in Ford’s lineup: part of the Super Duty family, positioned for vocational and heavier‑duty applications without entering Class 7 territory.
In practical terms, this classification influences licensing considerations, specialized equipment use, and the vehicle’s payload and towing capabilities in a fleet context.
Regulatory and licensing considerations
Because GVWR defines class, licensing and regulatory requirements depend on the state and the vehicle’s configuration. In the United States, a vehicle with GVWR under 26,001 pounds generally does not require a commercial driver’s license solely due to weight, but heavy towing, certain payload arrangements, or specific state rules may require additional licensing, training, or endorsements. Always verify with the local department of transportation and check the vehicle’s door jamb sticker for the exact GVWR.
Summary
The Ford F-550 is a Class 6 medium‑duty truck within Ford's Super Duty lineup, with a typical GVWR around 19,500–22,000 pounds depending on configuration. This places it in the middle of the heavy‑duty spectrum, offering substantial payload and towing capacity without moving into Class 7 or 8 territory. Always confirm the exact GVWR on the specific vehicle or upfit you’re considering, as options can alter the rating.
What is a Ford F-550 classified as?
Class 5. Medium duty. 16,001–19,500 pounds (7,258–8,845 kg) Chevrolet Silverado 5500HD/International CV, Ford F-550, Ram 5500, Isuzu NRR, Freightliner Business Class M2 106.
Is a F-550 a CDL truck?
How Does “Under CDL” Differ? Under CDL allows the driver to drive a commercial vehicle with a gross weight of less than 26,000 pounds. The most common vehicles that are under CDL are as follows: SUVs, cars, vans. Dodge Ram and Ford F550 are recognized as under CDL.
What type of vehicle is a Ford F-550?
The Ford Super Duty F-550 is a versatile and capable commercial truck that is well-suited for a wide range of industries and applications.
What class is a 5 ton truck?
Truck Classification FAQs
Class 4: 14,001-16,000 pounds. Class 5: 16,001-19,500 pounds. Class 6: 19,501-26,000 pounds. Class 7: 26,001-33,000 pounds.
