What is the payload of a Chevy 3500HD dually?
The payload capacity of a Chevy Silverado 3500HD dual-rear-wheel (dually) model varies by configuration, but you can expect roughly 4,000–7,000 pounds depending on cab/bed size, engine choice, and optional equipment.
Understanding payload matters for safe loading, especially when you’re parking around heavy gear, tools, or passengers. This article explains how payload is defined, what factors influence it, and how to determine the exact number for your specific truck.
What determines payload on a Silverado 3500HD DRW
Payload is not a fixed figure; it shifts with how the truck is built and equipped. The following factors typically have the biggest impact on a dual-rear-wheel 3500HD's payload rating:
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and fuel. DRW models often have higher GVWRs, which can expand potential payload in certain configurations.
- Curb weight: The weight of the truck as built without payload. Heavier DRW configurations raise curb weight and can reduce payload if GVWR is fixed.
- Engine and drivetrain: Diesel vs. gasoline options, as well as transmission choices, affect both curb weight and GVWR in some trims.
- Cab and bed configuration: Regular, double (crew) cab, and bed length options change the vehicle’s weight and payload capacity.
- Optional equipment and accessories: Plows, heavy-duty suspension adds, toolboxes, and other aftermarket gear increase curb weight and can lower available payload.
Because these factors interact, the exact payload for any given Silverado 3500HD DRW is vehicle-specific. Always verify the precise figure for your truck’s VIN or build sheet.
How to determine your exact payload
Where to verify the numbers
To determine the exact payload for a Silverado 3500HD DRW, use the weight data from the door jamb sticker, the VIN/build data, or GM’s official specifications. Payload is calculated as GVWR minus curb weight.
- Locate the GVWR on the driver-side door jamb sticker (and in the owner’s manual). This value represents the maximum combined weight of the vehicle, including occupants, cargo, and fuel.
- Find the curb weight (unloaded weight) for your exact truck. This can appear on the same label or be retrieved from GM’s build data or a dealer’s VIN lookup.
- Compute payload with the formula: payload = GVWR − curb weight. This yields the maximum cargo and passenger weight the truck can safely carry.
- When planning loads, subtract the estimated passenger weight from the payload to ensure you stay within limits.
- If you’ve added equipment or heavy accessories (plows, winches, extra fuel cans), recalculate payload since these items affect curb weight and available payload.
Because GVWR, curb weight, and optional equipment vary by trim, cab, and bed, the exact payload is vehicle-specific. For precision, consult the door sticker or your GM dealer using your VIN.
Summary and practical takeaways
The Silverado 3500HD dually provides a wide payload window driven by configuration. The exact payload is determined by GVWR minus curb weight and can be influenced by optional equipment and body style. Always verify with the door sticker or GM’s build data for your VIN and perform the calculation described above to plan loads, towing, and overall performance safely.
In short: payload is not a single number. Check your specific truck’s weight data, do the GVWR minus curb weight calculation, and consider any added gear to know exactly how much you can carry.
What is the payload of the 2025 Chevy 3500 DRW?
7,234 lbs
What's the Difference Between the 2025 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD?
| Feature | Silverado 2500HD | Silverado 3500HD |
|---|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 22,430 lbs | Up to 36,000 lbs |
| Max Payload | Up to 3,689 lbs | Up to 7,234 lbs |
| Dually Option | No | Yes |
| Ride and Handling | Smoother, easier to park | Heavier feel, more stable under load |
How much weight can a 3500 dually haul?
The Ram 3500 dually towing capacity is the same as its two-rear-tires version at 36,610 pounds when properly equipped.
What is the payload difference between a Chevy 2500 and 3500?
The Chevy 3500 has a significantly higher maximum payload capacity than the 2500, with the 3500's payload reaching up to 7,442 pounds for single rear wheel (SRW) models, while the 2500's maximum is approximately 4,039 pounds. The 3500's higher capacity is due to its more robust frame, heavier-duty suspension components like additional leaf springs, and beefier rear axle.
| Feature | 2500 HD | 3500 HD |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to ~4,039 pounds | Up to 7,442 pounds (SRW) |
| Suspension | Five-leaf spring pack | Five-leaf pack plus two additional helper springs |
| Rear Axle | 6,600 lbs Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) | 7,250 lbs GAWR |
| Overall Purpose | Designed for heavy-duty hauling, providing a good balance of capability and a smoother ride for everyday use | Engineered for the most demanding tasks, with a focus on maximum load-bearing capacity and stability |
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How much weight can a Chevy 3500 dually carry in the bed?
A Chevy 3500 dually can carry approximately 7,442 pounds, but the exact payload capacity varies by model, drivetrain, and other configurations. This figure represents the total weight the truck can handle in its bed and cabin, so you must subtract the weight of passengers, fuel, and the truck's own curb weight from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to determine the actual carrying capacity. It is always best to check the specific vehicle's Trailering Information Label for its exact limits.
Payload capacity factors
- Model and configuration: Payload capacity is not a single number; it depends on the specific truck. For example, a 2WD LT DRW model has a higher payload than a 4WD Diesel model.
- Drivetrain: A 2WD (two-wheel drive) model generally has a higher payload capacity than a 4WD (four-wheel drive) model.
- Engine: The engine type can also affect payload. For instance, diesel engines can sometimes reduce the payload capacity compared to a gasoline engine.
- Trailering Information Label: The most accurate information for your specific truck is listed on the Trailering Information Label, which can be found on the vehicle itself. This label provides unique metrics, including max payload.
Important considerations
- Payload vs. GVWR: Payload capacity is what you can load into the truck, but it must not exceed the truck's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
- Calculate your own load: To find out how much you can carry, subtract the weight of the truck (including its own fluids and equipment) and the weight of any passengers from the GVWR.
- Staying under the limit: It is crucial to stay under the payload limit to avoid overloading and damaging the vehicle. You can get your loaded truck weighed at a public scale to confirm.
