Best Pickup Truck Towing Capacity (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful pickup truck, towing capacity is likely one of your top priorities. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which pickup has the best towing capacity for your needs.
Before making your purchase, it is important to consider a variety of factors beyond just towing capacity. Think about the type of trailer or load you’ll be towing, as well as the conditions you’ll be driving in. Consider the size and weight of the truck itself, as well as its fuel efficiency and overall performance. It’s also important to think about any additional features or technology that may make towing easier and more efficient.
To find the best pickup truck towing capacity for your needs, ask yourself a few key questions. Are you looking for a heavy-duty truck or something more compact? Will you be towing frequently, or just occasionally? What’s your budget like? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your options and make an informed decision.
Whether you’re hauling a large trailer for work or towing a boat on the weekends, having a powerful and reliable pickup truck with excellent towing capacity is crucial. By doing your research and considering all of your options, you can find the perfect truck to tackle any towing challenge with ease.
10 Best Pickup Truck Towing Capacity
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
This product is ideal for towing trailers, campers, boats, and other equipment with a 2" receiver on pickups, vans, and SUVs.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for lifting and moving heavy objects with a pickup truck.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The hydraulic hitch-mounted crane is ideal for lifting heavy loads onto and off of trucks or trailers.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
The product is ideal for towing heavy loads with pickup trucks, semitrailers, and other large vehicles up to 36000 lbs.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
It is ideal for attaching a trailer to select models of Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
The product is ideal for lifting and moving heavy loads, especially in pickup trucks.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
Ideal for extending truck bed to carry long items such as ladders, racks, canoes, kayaks, pipes, and lumber.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
The product is ideal for lifting heavy loads on pickup trucks with a 360° swivel design.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
This product is ideal for towing trailers with different ball sizes and with the added utility of a hook.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for lifting and moving heavy objects in a pickup truck.
|
|
1. Adjustable Class 3 Hitch For Heavy Tows
The adjustable drop hitch from Orion Motor Tech is the perfect solution for your towing needs. With eight different positions, this hitch can be mounted in two ways to offer height rise positions of 3-3/4", 5-1/4", 6-3/4", and 8-1/4", as well as drop positions of 5", 6-1/2", 8", and 9-1/2". This makes it incredibly easy to tackle any towing task that may come your way, no matter the height of the load.
Designed with a Class III tow hitch, this product has a 5000 pound gross trailer weight capacity, making it ideal for campers, boats, utility trailers, and more. The square 2 inch receiver securely locks onto the shank and distributes the tow power evenly, ensuring that whatever you need to tow can be done so safely.
This height adjustable drop hitch features a 1 inch hitch ball mount that is compatible with a wide range of class 3 vehicles, including trucks, Jeeps, SUVs, vacation RVs, and other loaded vehicles. It’s the perfect accessory for any driver who needs to tow frequently, as it offers a versatile and customizable solution that can be adjusted to meet any need.
Constructed with 45# steel and A3 steel, this tow hitch is built to withstand bumps and knocks, while its powder coated surface offers a corrosion-resistant performance that will keep it looking pristine for years to come.
Orion Motor Tech is known for their quality products and excellent customer service, and this adjustable tow hitch is no exception. It comes with a strong 1 year warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. If you have any questions or concerns, their friendly 24/7 customer service team is always available to assist you.
2. Ultra-Tow Pickup Truck Crane With Hand Winch – 1000-Lb. Capacity
Introducing a powerful and versatile product that can make your lifting and transporting tasks a breeze! This heavy-duty lifter can handle a maximum weight of 1000 lbs when fully retracted and 500 lbs when fully extended. You can rely on it to lift and move heavy items with ease, saving you time and effort.
The lifter comes with a 360° rotation feature that allows you to access items from all sides, making it ideal for loading and unloading cargo in tight spaces. Its telescopic boom can extend from 33in. to 53 1/2in., giving you more flexibility in reaching items of various heights. The height range of this lifter is from 38in. to 84in., making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
The product is equipped with a manual winch that comes with a 16ft. cable with hook to raise and lower cargo. This feature ensures that your cargo is securely fastened and protected during transportation. The winch is easy to operate, and you can adjust the height of the lifter with just a few turns.
Whether you need to move heavy equipment, furniture, or other bulky items, this lifter is an excellent choice. Its sturdy construction, combined with its impressive lifting capacity and versatile features, makes it a valuable addition to any workplace or home. Don't hesitate to try it out and experience the convenience and efficiency it brings to your lifting and transporting tasks!
3. Hydraulic Hitch-Mounted Crane – Three Boom Capacities: 500 Lbs. 750 Lbs. & 1000 Lbs.
This versatile and heavy-duty truck crane is a game-changer for those who frequently need to load and unload large and heavy items. With a lift range of 22 inches to 79 inches, it offers the perfect solution for a wide range of lifting needs.
This crane comes with three boom capacities, including 500 lbs., 750 lbs., and 1000 lbs. This range ensures that the user can choose the right capacity based on their specific needs. This feature also makes it ideal for professionals who require a crane for different types of lifting jobs.
One of the standout features of this truck crane is its durable construction. Made from yellow and black painted steel, it not only looks great but also has a long life. This means that it can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use without losing its functionality.
Installing this crane is a breeze since you can mount it directly onto your pick-up truck hitch. This feature eliminates the need for a separate mounting system, making the process of loading and unloading items up to 1,000 lbs incredibly easy.
With its 360-degree rotation feature, this crane provides complete access to the user, allowing for easy maneuvering of items in different directions. This feature is especially useful when working in tight spaces or when the user needs to access the lifting area from different angles.
4. Sturdy 5th Wheel Hitch For Heavy Loads.
The Tulga T10 Model Fifth Wheel Hitch is a top-of-the-line option for chassis and flatbed pickup trucks such as the Dodge Ram, Ford F Series, GMC, and Chevrolet Silverado. This fifth wheel hitch is specially designed for Hotshot Truckers and boasts an impressive towing capacity compared to others in its class.
With a remarkable drawbar towing capacity of 36,000 lbs and a vertical capacity of 9,000 lbs, the Tulga T10 Model is a powerful towing solution. This fifth wheel hitch is the perfect option for those who require high towing capacity for their work or leisure activities.
One of the standout features of the Tulga T10 Model Fifth Wheel Hitch is its long-lasting paint. This fifth wheel hitch is treated with cataphoresis, a coating system used by car makers to provide maximum protection against rust and corrosion. This ensures that your fifth wheel hitch will perform flawlessly for years to come, even in harsh environments.
The Tulga T10 Model Fifth Wheel Hitch also features an adjustable locking mechanism that sets it apart from its counterparts. This unique feature allows the user to compensate for any wear and tear over time by tightening the lock, ensuring a secure hold on the kingpin. This attribute not only enhances the safety of the hitch but also increases its longevity, resulting in an extended lifespan.
Please note that an adapter is required to install the Tulga T10 Model Fifth Wheel Hitch on your truck if you have a factory bed. The measurements of this fifth wheel hitch are as follows: height – 6", width – 31", and weight – 115 lbs.
5. Silverado Hitch: Fits Select Vehicles, Easy Install
Looking for a dependable trailer hitch that can handle all your towing needs? Look no further than this class 3 hitch from CURT. With a gross trailer weight rating of 6,000 lbs. and a tongue weight rating of 600 lbs., this hitch is designed to be both strong and versatile.
One of the standout features of this hitch is its versatile design. Equipped with a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver, it can accept a wide range of towing accessories, including ball mounts, cargo carriers, bike racks, tow hooks, and more. And best of all, no drilling is required for installation.
But what really sets this hitch apart is its rigorous testing process. Every design is tested in real-world, on-vehicle conditions at CURT's Detroit engineering facility, ensuring the utmost safety while hauling. And with a unique dual-coat finish of rust-resistant liquid Bonderite and black powder coat, this hitch is not only durable, but also protected against rust, chipping, and UV rays.
Installation is a breeze with this custom-fit hitch. It's designed to fit select model years of the Chevy Silverado 1500, 1500 Classic, 1500 HD, 1500 HD Classic, or 2500, as well as the GMC Sierra 1500, 1500 Classic, 1500 HD, 1500 HD Classic, or 2500. So whether you're hauling cargo or towing a trailer, this class 3 hitch from CURT is the reliable choice for all your towing needs.
6. Stark Truck-Mounted Hydraulic Crane: 1100 Lbs Capacity.
The pickup truck or trailer bed crane is an excellent tool for those who need to lift heavy loads with ease. This crane is designed to be operated by one person, making it a convenient and efficient choice for any job.
With its telescopic boom, this crane can extend from 33 inches to 53 and a half inches, allowing you to transport loads that weigh between 500 and 1100 pounds. This makes it perfect for lifting engines, watercraft, and more.
To raise and lower cargo, the crane is equipped with a manual hand cable winch. This ensures that you have complete control over the lifting process, allowing you to move heavy items safely and efficiently.
The boom extension locks in four positions, with weight capacities of 1100 pounds, 700 pounds, 600 pounds, and 500 pounds. This provides you with added versatility, allowing you to adjust the crane's lifting capacity to suit your needs.
The 360-degree swivel design of the crane allows for maximum accessibility, making it easy to position the crane wherever you need it. This ensures that you can lift and transport heavy loads with ease, even in tight spaces.
7. Maxxhaul Hitch Bed Extender: Expand Your Hauling Capacity!
This truck bed extender is a versatile accessory designed to fit 2-inch hitch receivers. It extends the length and width of your truck bed, allowing you to carry longer payloads with ease. The adjustable length and width make it perfect for use in various applications, providing the necessary flexibility to suit your needs.
Assembly and disassembly of the extender are quick and easy, thanks to the four quick release clevis pins. This feature allows you to attach or remove the extender in a matter of minutes, saving you time and effort.
Safety is a top priority with this product, and it comes equipped with a red flag and reflective tape for enhanced visibility. These features ensure that your extended payload is easily seen by other motorists, reducing the risk of accidents on the road.
The side arms of the extender can be folded down to create a portable work area, providing a convenient workspace for various activities. This feature makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, contractors, and handymen who need a versatile tool to get the job done.
8. Vevor Davit 2000lbs Pickup Truck Crane, 360° Swivel Design, Red
The crane with a 1000 lbs lifting capacity is a versatile and reliable piece of equipment that can make any lifting job easier. The crane's arms are adjustable in four different length classes, ranging from 44" in the shortest case to a full extension of 68". This allows the crane to withstand up to 2000 pounds of lifting at full extension and effectively support up to 1000 pounds.
The crane hoist is equipped with a 16" hydraulic plunger that is operated manually. The hydraulic plunger starts simply by turning the handle, which makes it easy to use, labor-saving, and efficient. The combination of grip and hydraulic plunger gives the user complete control over the lifting process.
The davit winch crane is made of solid Q345 steel material, which is also known as alloy steel. This type of steel has higher strength than carbon steel due to its low carbon content and low alloying element content. This effectively improves the stability, plasticity, and welding properties of the crane. The crane is also spray painted to provide additional protection against rust and corrosion.
The base of the davit crane is removable and easily installed. The bottom of the pickup truck crane rotates 360° according to handling requirements. The cantilever is centered on the shaft and swivels in different directions, providing flexibility and ease of use. This makes the crane suitable for a wide range of applications, including construction, forestry, factories, transportation, and ships.
The davit crane hoist is designed for easy operation, allowing a person to easily lift the engine, generators, compressors, and other small equipment into the car. It is widely used in pickup trucks, towing lathes, ships, and other applications where lifting is required. With its 1000 lbs lifting capacity, the crane is a reliable and efficient tool for any lifting job.
9. Towever Tri-Ball Hitch: Ultimate Pickup Towing Solution
Introducing the versatile 3 Ball Tow Hitch, designed to make towing a breeze for pickup trucks, tractors, and other vehicles with 2 inch standard hitch receivers or drawbars. This tow hitch is compatible with 2 inches class 3 4 receivers hitch tube, ensuring a perfect fit with your vehicle.
The 3 Ball Tow Hitch comes with three black hitch balls, measuring 1-7/8 inches, 2 inches, and 2-5/16 inches, respectively. Additionally, it includes a hook for towing strap, adding to its versatility and functionality.
With the three towing ball capacities of 2000lbs, 6000lbs, and 10000lbs, you can easily tow different loads without any hassle. Moreover, the hook capacities of 10000lbs make it an ideal choice for heavy-duty towing needs.
The tri ball hitch measures 7-1/2 inches in length, with a hollow shank that extends the trailer receiver. This ensures that the hitch is compatible with various types of vehicles and trailers.
For added safety and security, the 3 Ball Tow Hitch requires a 5/8 inch hitch pin kit or lock (not included) to ensure that the hitch balls and hook remain firmly secured during towing.
Best Pickup Truck Towing Capacity FAQs
Are heavy-duty pickups always better for towing capacity?
Not necessarily. While heavy-duty pickups are often equipped with larger engines and stronger frames, there are other factors that can affect towing capacity. For example, the type of transmission, suspension, and brakes can all impact a truck's ability to tow. Additionally, the weight distribution of the load being towed and the towing equipment being used can also play a role.
It's important to consider the specific needs of the towing job when selecting a pickup truck. For lighter loads, a mid-size or full-size pickup may be sufficient. However, for heavier loads or frequent towing, a heavy-duty pickup may be necessary. It's also important to ensure that the chosen pickup has the proper towing package and equipment, such as a hitch and trailer brake controller.
Ultimately, the towing capacity of a pickup truck is determined by a combination of factors and should be carefully evaluated before making a purchase.
Can a pickup truck with a lower towing capacity still tow a boat or trailer?
Yes, a pickup truck with a lower towing capacity can still tow a boat or trailer, but it is important to ensure that the weight of the boat or trailer does not exceed the truck's towing capacity. It is also important to consider other factors such as the condition of the truck, the length of the tow, and the type of terrain that will be covered during the tow.
If the weight of the boat or trailer is close to the towing capacity of the truck, it is important to take precautions such as using a weight distribution hitch and ensuring that the brakes on the trailer are in good working order.
It is always a good idea to consult the owner's manual of the truck to determine the towing capacity and any other towing recommendations specific to the vehicle. Additionally, it may be helpful to seek the advice of a professional mechanic or towing expert to ensure that the vehicle is capable of safely towing the desired load.
How does towing capacity affect fuel efficiency in pickup trucks?
Towing capacity is an important consideration for pickup truck owners, especially those who frequently tow heavy loads. However, it's important to note that towing capacity can have a significant impact on fuel efficiency.
When a pickup truck is towing a heavy load, it requires more power to accelerate and maintain speed, which means the engine has to work harder. This increased workload causes the engine to burn more fuel, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency.
Furthermore, the added weight of the load can also affect the aerodynamics of the truck, causing it to experience more wind resistance. The increased wind resistance creates drag, which requires even more power from the engine, leading to further decreases in fuel efficiency.
To mitigate the impact of towing on fuel efficiency, it's important for truck owners to choose a vehicle with an appropriate towing capacity for their needs. Additionally, practicing good driving habits, such as avoiding abrupt acceleration and braking, can also help improve fuel efficiency while towing.
How much weight can a Chevrolet Silverado tow?
The amount of weight that a Chevrolet Silverado can tow depends on several factors such as the vehicle's engine, transmission, and configuration. However, the maximum towing capacity for a Chevrolet Silverado ranges from 7,500 pounds to 13,300 pounds, depending on the model.
For instance, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with a 2.7-liter turbocharged engine and eight-speed automatic transmission can tow up to 9,300 pounds. On the other hand, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD with a Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 engine and an Allison® 10-speed automatic transmission can tow up to 36,000 pounds.
It's important to note that towing capacity may also be affected by other factors such as the weight of passengers and cargo in the vehicle, as well as the trailer's weight and configuration. It is always recommended to consult the vehicle's owner manual for specific towing capacity information and consult a professional to ensure safe towing practices.
What is the difference in towing capacity between a half-ton and a three-quarter-ton pickup truck?
The towing capacity of a pickup truck is determined by its weight rating, which is commonly referred to as its class. Half-ton and three-quarter-ton trucks are two of the most popular classes of pickup trucks available in the market today. The main difference between the two is their weight and towing capacity.
A half-ton pickup truck usually has a weight rating of around 5,000 to 6,000 pounds, and it is capable of towing up to 10,000 pounds. This makes it a good choice for towing smaller boats, trailers, and other light-duty loads.
On the other hand, a three-quarter-ton pickup truck has a weight rating of around 7,500 to 8,500 pounds, and it is capable of towing up to 15,000 pounds. This makes it a better choice for towing larger loads, such as heavy-duty trailers, fifth-wheel campers, and large boats.
It is important to note that the actual towing capacity of a pickup truck may vary depending on various factors such as engine size, transmission, and axle ratio. Therefore, it is always important to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and specifications to determine the exact towing capacity of a particular pickup truck.
What is the highest towing capacity for a pickup truck?
The highest towing capacity for a pickup truck depends on the model and manufacturer. In general, heavy-duty trucks have higher towing capacities than light-duty trucks. The current leader in towing capacity is the Ford F-450 Super Duty, which can tow up to 37,000 pounds when properly equipped. Other heavy-duty trucks like the GMC Sierra 3500HD and the Ram 3500 can also tow over 30,000 pounds. It's important to note that the towing capacity is not just determined by the engine power, but also by factors like the truck's suspension, brakes, and frame strength. It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and consult a professional to ensure safe and proper towing. Exceeding the towing capacity can result in damage to the truck or trailer, and even lead to accidents.
What is the towing capacity of a Ford F-150?
The towing capacity of a Ford F-150 varies depending on the model and engine type. The maximum towing capacity for the 2021 F-150 ranges from 5,000 to 14,000 pounds. The base engine, a 3.3-liter V6, has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the 5.0-liter V8 engine can tow up to 11,600 pounds. The turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine has a towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds, making it the best choice for heavy-duty towing. The towing capacity can also be affected by the truck's weight, payload, and other factors, such as the type of hitch and trailer being used. It is important to consult the owner's manual and follow proper towing procedures to ensure safe and effective towing with your Ford F-150.
What is the towing capacity of a Ram 1500?
The towing capacity of a Ram 1500 depends on various factors such as engine, transmission, and axle ratio. However, the maximum towing capacity of a properly equipped Ram 1500 is up to 12,750 pounds. This capacity is available with the 5.7-liter V8 engine, eTorque mild-hybrid system, and 3.92 axle ratio.
It is important to note that towing capacity may vary depending on the specific model and trim of the Ram 1500. Additionally, exceeding the recommended towing capacity can cause damage to the vehicle and compromise safety. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and consult the owner's manual before towing anything with a Ram 1500.
Overall, the Ram 1500 is a powerful and capable truck with impressive towing capacity, making it a popular choice for those who need to tow heavy loads.
What pickup truck has the highest towing capacity for fifth-wheel trailers?
The Ford F-450 Super Duty pickup truck has the highest towing capacity for fifth-wheel trailers. Its towing capacity is up to 37,000 pounds, which is significantly higher than other pickups in its class. This is due to its powerful engine and heavy-duty components designed specifically for towing. The F-450 Super Duty features a 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel engine that delivers 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing it to handle even the heaviest loads with ease. Additionally, the truck is equipped with a variety of advanced towing technologies such as a rearview camera system, trailer sway control, and adaptive steering, which provide drivers with added confidence and control while towing. Overall, if you're looking for a pickup truck with the highest towing capacity for fifth-wheel trailers, the Ford F-450 Super Duty is your best bet.
Which pickup truck has the best towing capacity?
When it comes to towing capacity, there are several pickup trucks that stand out from the rest. However, the Ford F-150 is widely considered to have the best towing capacity in the market. The 2021 Ford F-150 has a maximum towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds when properly equipped with the available 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and the Max Trailer Tow Package. This package includes features such as a trailer brake controller, a 360-degree camera system, and a Pro Trailer Backup Assist system that makes it easier to maneuver the trailer when backing up.
Other pickup trucks with high towing capacities include the Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500. However, the Ford F-150's towing capacity remains unrivaled. It's important to note that towing capacity can vary based on the engine, transmission, and other options selected, so it's always important to consult the manufacturer's specifications before towing any load.
