What is the load capacity of the Ford F550?

The load capacity of a Ford F-550 is not a single fixed number. It varies by year, configuration and upfits. In general, you’ll see payload ratings that range from about 5,000 to 12,000 pounds, with higher figures possible on certain dual-rear-wheel and heavier GVWR setups. For an exact figure, check the door jamb sticker or your factory build sheet.

What determines payload on the F-550

Payload is defined as the weight that can be carried in the vehicle, and it’s calculated as the difference between the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the curb weight. Because GVWR and curb weight change with configuration and options, the payload can vary significantly from one F-550 to another.

• GVWR rating chosen for the specific truck (higher GVWR allows for more total weight, but may reduce payload if curb weight is also high).


• Axle configuration (single rear wheel vs. dual rear wheels) which affects weight-carrying capacity.


• Cab and bed configuration (regular cab, crew cab, wheelbase, and bed length).


• Upfits and equipment installed (toolboxes, tanks, cranes, boxes, plows, winches, etc., all add curb weight).


• Tire/wheel size and suspension options that can influence curb weight and ride height.


• Fuel tank size and other ballast choices that can subtly affect net payload.

In short, the payload rating is vehicle-specific. Always verify the exact number for your build using the official specifications sheet or the door jamb sticker.

Typical payload ranges by common configurations

Before reviewing these ranges, note that they are approximate and depend on the exact year, GVWR, and upfit package. Use them as a guide, then confirm with the official spec for your truck.

• SRW (single rear wheel) configurations with a standard chassis and mid-range GVWR: roughly 5,000–9,000 pounds.


• DRW (dual rear wheel) configurations and higher GVWR options: commonly around 7,000–12,000 pounds.


• Crew cab or extended cab variants with substantial upfits: often in the broader 8,000–12,000+ pound range, depending on upfits and GVWR.

Because the F-550 is commonly used for upfits (utility bodies, dump beds, etc.), payload can be reduced by the weight of installed equipment. For precise numbers, consult the specific truck’s build sheet and weight documentation.

How to verify payload on your F-550

To determine your exact payload, follow these steps so you rely on the vehicle’s official data rather than general estimates.

1. Locate the GVWR on the manufacturer’s certification label, typically found on the door jamb or the an interior chassis plate.


2. Identify the curb weight of the specific truck, including upfits and equipment if applicable, using a floor-scale weigh-in or the factory’s published curb weight for that build.


3. Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the payload capacity.


4. If you’re comparing multiple configurations (e.g., SRW vs DRW, different wheelbases), perform the calculation for each build to see how payload changes.


5. When adding aftermarket equipment, recalculate payload or consult the upfit manufacturer or dealer to ensure you stay within safe operating limits.

Following these steps ensures you have an accurate payload figure for your exact F-550, which is critical for safety and legal load limits on the road and at work sites.

Summary

The Ford F-550’s load capacity is not a universal stat; it depends on GVWR, configuration, and upfits. Expect a broad range—roughly 5,000 to 12,000 pounds—depending on whether the truck is SRW or DRW, cab/bed setup, and the weight of installed equipment. For precision, always check the specific vehicle’s data plate or build sheet and recalculate payload whenever you add or remove upfits.

For the most up-to-date figures, refer to Ford’s official specifications for your model year and configuration or consult your dealer with the exact build details.

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. 

How much weight can a F-550 carry?

An F-550 can carry a maximum payload of around 12,750 pounds and can tow up to 31,600 pounds with a gooseneck or 5th-wheel setup, depending on the specific model year and configuration. Conventional towing is limited to about 18,500 pounds. The specific payload and towing capacity depend on the truck's configuration, including the engine, axle ratio, and installed upfit. 
Payload capacity

• Maximum: Up to 12,750 pounds, depending on the specific configuration. 
• Factors: The exact payload will vary based on the chosen payload package and any upfits or equipment added to the truck, such as a dump bed. 

Towing capacity

• Gooseneck/5th-wheel: Up to 31,600 pounds with a properly equipped diesel model.
• Conventional (hitch): Up to 18,500 pounds. 

Other important specifications

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Up to 19,500 pounds. 
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Can go up to 43,000 pounds for some diesel models. 
• Curb Weight: Approximately 7,000–8,000 pounds, depending on options. 

What is the payload capacity of the f450 vs F-550?

The F-550 generally has a higher maximum payload capacity than the F-450. For example, the maximum payload for a F-450 chassis cab is up to 9,850 pounds, while the F-550 chassis cab can handle up to 12,750 pounds. The F-450 also comes in a conventional pickup truck configuration, which has a lower maximum payload of around 6,210 pounds. 
This video discusses the payload differences between the F-450 and F-550 chassis cab models: 57sBig Truck Big RVYouTube · Aug 31, 2016

Vehicle Model	Body Style	Maximum Payload Capacity (Approx.)
F-450	Chassis Cab	9,850 pounds
F-450	Conventional Pickup	6,210 pounds
F-550	Chassis Cab	12,750 pounds

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Key differences affecting payload:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The F-550 is classified as a Class 5 medium-duty truck and typically has a higher GVWR than the F-450, which allows for a greater payload capacity. 
• Frame and Axle: The F-550 has a stronger frame and rear axle designed for higher weight ratings, which is crucial for its increased payload capability. 
• Availability: The F-450 is available as both a conventional pickup and a chassis cab, while the F-550 is only available as a chassis cab from the factory. 

What is the payload capacity of a 2006 F-550?

MAXIMUM LOADS - Properly equipped, F-550's ultimate load capacity reaches 12,300 lbs., and trailer weight up to 24,900 lbs.