What is the payload capacity of the GMC 3500 SRW?
The payload capacity of the GMC Sierra 3500 SRW isn’t a single fixed figure; it varies by configuration. In general, you can expect roughly 4,000 to 7,000 pounds of payload, with the exact number shown on the door jamb sticker for your specific truck. This article explains how to interpret that figure and where to find the exact rating for your vehicle.
What payload means for the Sierra 3500 SRW
Payload is the maximum weight you can safely carry in the truck, including passengers, cargo, and any installed equipment. For the Sierra 3500 SRW, payload is calculated as the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) minus the curb weight. Because GVWR changes with trim, cab style, bed length, and options, the payload can vary significantly between configurations.
Key factors that influence payload
The following elements affect the payload capacity of a GMC Sierra 3500 SRW:
- Cab style and bed length: Regular cab versus crew cab and short bed versus long bed alter the truck’s weight and GVWR.
- Drivetrain: 4x4 versus 4x2 configurations add weight, which can reduce payload.
- Engine and fuel system: Gasoline versus diesel engines contribute different weights and may be paired with different GVWRs.
- Optional equipment and packages: Towing packages, plows, auxiliary fuel tanks, and other add-ons increase curb weight and may affect payload.
- Model year and trim level: GMC sometimes adjusts GVWRs and standard/available equipment across generations and trims.
Understanding these factors helps explain why two Sierra 3500 SRWs can have noticeably different payload ratings even if they look similar.
How to find your exact payload for the Sierra 3500 SRW
Because payload depends on how the truck is built, the most reliable number is the figure printed on the vehicle’s door jamb sticker. If you don’t have the sticker handy, use the steps below to verify the exact rating for your VIN.
- Check the driver’s door jamb sticker for the payload rating, which is derived from the GVWR minus curb weight.
- If you know the curb weight of your specific build, compute payload as Payload = GVWR − Curb weight.
- Consult the vehicle’s VIN-specific build sheet or the GMC official website’s configuration pages for the exact GVWR and recommended payload for your trim.
- Ask a GMC dealer to pull the exact payload value for your VIN if you cannot access the sticker or build sheet.
Having the exact payload figure helps you plan loads, passengers, and gear to stay within safe limits and maximize performance.
Practical notes for buyers and operators
When evaluating a Sierra 3500 SRW for heavy-duty use, consider not only payload but also the interplay with towing capacity, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, and real-world conditions like terrain and climate. A higher GVWR often comes with a heavier curb weight, which can reduce payload, while a lighter configuration may limit towing capacity. Always verify the sticker value for your specific truck and year.
Summary
In short, the GMC Sierra 3500 SRW does not have a single payload figure. Expect a broad range—roughly 4,000 to 7,000 pounds—depending on cab configuration, bed length, drivetrain, engine, and optional equipment. The door jamb sticker on your exact truck is the authoritative source, and calculations based on GVWR minus curb weight can provide a quick cross-check. For precise planning, consult the vehicle’s build sheet or a GMC dealer using your VIN.
Is the GMC 3500 good for heavy hauling?
Yes, the GMC Sierra 3500 HD is excellent for heavy hauling, offering powerful performance with a max towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 7,442 pounds when properly equipped. It is built for heavy-duty work with features like an available dual rear-wheel configuration, a commercial-grade chassis, and the powerful 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine.
Key features for heavy hauling
- Maximum towing capacity: Up to 36,000 pounds for fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing, making it capable of towing large equipment or RVs.
- Maximum payload capacity: Up to 7,442 pounds, allowing for substantial cargo in the bed.
- Available dual rear wheels: Provides a wider stance and increased stability for handling the heaviest loads.
- Powerful engine options: The available 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine delivers exceptional torque and horsepower, which is crucial for heavy hauling.
- Robust chassis: A commercial-grade chassis is designed to withstand the stresses of heavy-duty work.
- Advanced technology: Includes features like the MultiPro tailgate, which makes loading and unloading easier, and various technology options to aid drivers.
What is the payload of the GMC 3500 SRW?
For example, looking at maximum payload ratings for a Sierra 3500 HD with an SRW setup, they top out at 4,590 lbs with a gas engine or 4,496 lbs with a diesel engine. These numbers are still bigger than the Sierra 2500 HD but nowhere near what we looked at earlier; the numbers from before are with a DRW configuration.
What is the towing capacity of a GMC 3500 single rear wheel?
For example, a rear-wheel-drive 3500HD with single rear wheels can tow up to 14,500 pounds with just a conventional hitch. That number increases to 21,500 pounds when using a gooseneck hitch.
What is the payload of the 2025 GMC 3500 HD?
6,513 lbs.
Dimensions
| Wheelbase | 162.0 in. |
|---|---|
| Curb weight | 7,449 lbs. |
| Maximum towing capacity | 20,000 lbs. |
| Maximum payload | 6,513 lbs. |
| Gross weight | 14,000 lbs. |
