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What is considered a 1 ton truck?

A 1 ton truck, also known as a one-ton truck, is a classification of pickup trucks and other commercial vehicles that have a maximum payload capacity of around 2,000 pounds or 1 short ton (907 kilograms). These trucks are designed to handle heavier loads and towing tasks compared to smaller light-duty pickup trucks.


Understanding the 1 Ton Truck Classification


The term "1 ton" refers to the maximum payload capacity of the vehicle, not its total weight. Payload capacity is the maximum weight the truck can safely carry in the bed or attached to the hitch, including passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment. The total weight of the truck itself, known as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), is typically higher than the payload capacity.


Trucks in the 1 ton class are often used for a variety of commercial and heavy-duty applications, such as:


  • Hauling construction materials, equipment, or other heavy loads

  • Towing large trailers, campers, or boats

  • Serving as work trucks for tradespeople, such as plumbers, electricians, or landscapers

  • Providing transportation for small businesses or contractors



While the 1 ton classification is a general guideline, the actual payload capacity of a specific truck model can vary depending on the manufacturer, engine, and other features. It's important to check the vehicle's specifications and not rely solely on the "1 ton" label when determining its capabilities.


Examples of 1 Ton Trucks


Some popular examples of 1 ton trucks include:


  • Ford F-350 Super Duty

  • Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

  • Ram 3500

  • GMC Sierra 3500HD

  • Nissan Titan XD


These trucks typically have larger engines, more robust suspensions, and higher towing and payload capacities compared to their light-duty counterparts, such as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, or Ram 1500.


When choosing a 1 ton truck, it's essential to consider the specific needs of your application and ensure the vehicle's capabilities match your requirements. Factors like payload, towing capacity, engine power, and fuel efficiency should all be taken into account.

What is considered a 2 ton truck?


A 2-ton truck has a 4000-pound (two tons) load carrying capacity.



Is a 3500 a 1 ton truck?


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.



What are examples of 1 ton trucks?


1-Ton Pickup Trucks Comparison Table

NameGVWRFuel Capacity
Ram 350010,700–11,400 lbs.50 gallons
Ford F-350 Super Duty10,100 lbs.34 or 48 gallons depending on the trim
Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD10,750 lbs.36 gallons
GMC Sierra 3500 HD11,500 lbs.36 gallons



Is a GMC Sierra 3500 a 1 ton?


GMC Sierra: A Closer Look
The 2500 and 3500 are heavier-duty models, often referred to as 3/4 ton and 1 ton, respectively, and are currently designated as the 2500HD and 3500HD. Each model is available with a choice of engines, with RWD or 4WD, three cab sizes, a range of trim levels, and with numerous options.



Is an F-250 a 1 ton?


At the core, the differences are simple, the F-150 is a light-duty, half-ton truck, the F-250 is a three-quarter-ton, heavy-duty truck, and the F-350 is a one-ton heavy-duty truck. What does this mean for you? The jobs that these trucks were built to do and can handle.



Is a 350 a 3/4-ton truck?


Which Pickups Are Considered One Tons? At the top of the scale are one-ton pickup trucks, such as the Ford Super Duty F-350, Ram 3500, Chevrolet Silverado 3500 and GMC Sierra 3500.



Is a f550 a 1 ton?


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 4500 a 1 ton truck?


Trucks Larger Than 1 Ton
For these uses, manufacturers sell specialty trucks that offer less comfort but are great for hauling and towing. Trucks larger than one ton are often fitted with specialty equipment and are usually numbered “450” or “4500,” and higher.



Is a Chevy 1500 a half ton?


The Chevy Silverado 1500 falls in the half-ton truck category. But what is a half-ton truck? These trucks, compared to the others two, will get lighter duty work done such as light trailer loads and bed capacity. However, as far as trucks go, these models are more intended with the daily driver and comfort in mind.



How to 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.


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.