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What is the GVW of a Ford F550?

The Ford F-550’s maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is 19,500 pounds (8,845 kg) in most factory configurations. The actual loaded weight (GVW) depends on payload, fluids, passengers, and the specific upfit mounted to the chassis.


Understanding GVWR and GVW on the F-550


GVWR is the maximum allowable weight the vehicle can safely carry, including the vehicle’s own curb weight, fuel, passengers, cargo and any upfits. GVW is the actual weight of the vehicle at a given moment when it’s loaded. For the F-550, the official GVWR label you’ll see on most builds tops out at 19,500 pounds, but the exact figure can vary based on configuration and upfits.


Common factors that influence the GVWR on the F-550


The GVWR you see on a specific F-550 build is determined by several design choices and options. Before we list them, note that the maximum commonly cited rating remains 19,500 pounds for most factory configurations.



  • Chassis configuration (single rear wheel SRW vs dual rear wheel DRW)

  • Cab configuration and seating capacity

  • Drivetrain type (2WD vs 4WD)

  • Upfits and body style (dump bed, service/body, ambulance, box van, etc.)

  • Axle and tire ratings as specified by Ford and the body builder


These variables mean GVWR can differ across individual builds, so always verify the exact rating on the door jamb sticker or official build sheet for your specific vehicle.


GVW vs GVWR: how they are used in practice


Use GVWR as the safety ceiling for loading. GVW is the actual weight you’re carrying at any given time, which can approach GVWR depending on payload and fluids but should never exceed it. For planning heavy-duty upfits or payload-heavy configurations, knowing the exact GVWR for your build is essential to avoid overloading.


How to verify the GVWR on your F-550


To determine the exact GVWR for your vehicle, check these sources:



  • Driver-side door jamb sticker showing GVWR and payload capacity

  • VIN-based build sheet or window sticker

  • Official Ford dealer records or the Ford Owner portal for your model year


Concluding: Always confirm the precise GVWR for your build with the sticker and documentation, rather than assuming it from the model year alone.


Summary


The Ford F-550 generally carries a maximum GVWR of 19,500 pounds, though the exact rating can vary with configuration and upfits. GVW is the actual loaded weight, which will vary with payload and fluids. Always verify the exact GVWR on your specific vehicle via the door sticker or build sheet to ensure safe and compliant loading.

Is a Ford F550 a 2 ton truck?


No, a Ford F-550 is not a 2-ton truck; it is a Class 5 medium-duty truck that can be referred to as a "1.5-ton" vehicle. Its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) can be up to 19,500 lbs, which is far more than the 4,000 lbs capacity of a 2-ton rating.
 

  • Class 5 classification: The F-550 is classified as a Class 5 truck, with a GVWR ranging from 16,001 to 19,500 lbs. 
  • Capacity: A 2-ton truck has a payload capacity of only 4,000 lbs, while a Ford F-550's maximum payload is over 12,000 lbs. 
  • Official ratings: The term "ton" rating for older trucks is not an official measure of weight. It is best to refer to the specific truck's GVWR and other specifications for accurate information about its capabilities. 



What is the GVW on a Ford F550?


The Ford F-550 has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) that ranges from approximately 17,500 to 19,500 pounds, depending on the specific configuration and payload package. The maximum GVWR is 19,500 pounds for many modern models. This rating is the maximum operating weight for the vehicle, including its own weight and the weight of its cargo and occupants. 

  • Maximum GVWR: 19,500 pounds 
  • Available GVWRs: Ford offers different configurations with GVWRs of 17,500, 18,000, 19,000, and 19,500 pounds. 
  • Classification: With a GVWR of up to 19,500 pounds, the F-550 is classified as a medium-duty vehicle, specifically a Class 5 vehicle. 
  • Payload Capacity: A properly equipped F-550 can have a maximum payload capacity of up to 12,770 pounds. 



What is the GVWR of a 2016 Ford F550?


19,500 lbs.
GVWR: 19,500 lbs. Front GAWR: 7,000 lbs.



What is the GVWR of a 2019 Ford F550?


The 2019 Ford F-550 GVWR ranges from 17,500 to 19,500 pounds, depending on the specific configuration. A common configuration, such as the 2WD Cab & Chassis with a 145-inch wheelbase, has a standard GVWR of 18,000 pounds. 
You can watch this video for a quick overview of a 2019 Ford F-550 XLT with a flat bed: 55sPrince George FordYouTube · Jul 17, 2023

  • Standard Range: The maximum Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for the 2019 F-550 can be up to 19,500 pounds. 
  • Typical Configurations:
    • A common 2WD Cab & Chassis model has a standard GVWR of 18,000 pounds. 
    • Certain options, like the Payload Plus Upgrade Package, increase the GVWR to 19,500 pounds. 
  • Vehicle Compliance: The specific GVWR for any vehicle can be found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label, which is typically located on the driver's side door jamb. 


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.