Pickup Truck Load Guidelines
I'm sure you've heard different models of pickup trucks referred to as half-ton, three-quarter-ton, and one-ton vehicles. All three terms refer to pickup truck load capacity. For instance, a half ton truck's springs, chassis, and bed are designed to safely carry a maximum of 1000 pounds, or one-half of a ton.Most manufacturers have stopped using weight-related terminology to describe their pickup trucks. They've switched to number or letter designations that don't usually help you determine a truck's load rating, but you'll always find it listed in the vehicle's specifications.
Half-Ton Pickup Trucks - General Purpose
- Drive to work
- Move furniture
- Haul trash
- Modify to create a lowrider or sport truck
Three-Quarter-Ton Pickup Trucks - General Purpose, Heavier Loads
- Hauling dirt or sand
- Light fifth-wheel trailer use with in-bed campers
One-Ton Pickup Trucks - Heavy Cargo
- Hauling large loads of sand, dirt or wood
- Large in-bed campers
- Heavy fifth-wheel trailers, such as horse trailers or car trailers
More About Load Capacity
- Engine, transmission, axle gearing, and "people load" also play a part in the capabilities of your truck.
- Overload springs help keep the vehicle level when loaded or overloaded, but they do not strengthen the axle, wheel bearings, tires or frame.
