Which 2019 Half-Ton Truck Has the Highest Payload and Towing Capacities? Comprehensive List

Which is the most capable half-ton truck for the upcoming 2019 model year? Here is the list that combines the latest 2019 and 2018 pickups and ranks them in terms of maximum payload and towing capacities. It’s interesting to note that trucks that claim the maximum payload for each manufacturer are often not the same configuration as the ones that claim maximum towing/trailering capability.

Here is how the latest 2019 & 2018 half-ton trucks stack up in terms of payload. It’s worth noting, that Ford offers a special “heavy duty” suspension package for the F-150 that allows for such a high payload rating. We have not yet been able to review/test this unique F-150 suspension package.

Naturally, the regular cab 2WD configurations are the trucks with the lightest curb weights, hence they are also the once with the highest payload ratings. All trucks listed below are regular (two-door) cab models with the exception of the 2019 Ram 1500 and the Toyota Tundra, as the two-door cab is not available.

• as rated by the manufacturer

Should you pull a trailer that weighs over 12,000 lbs with your 1500-series half-ton truck? We generally do not recommend this. Yes, the power train and chassis are strong enough, but highway stability and braking ability are challenged. We max out crew cab 4×4 half-ton trucks with a trailer weighing between 9,000 – 9,500 lbs for the Ike Gauntlet™ – world’s toughest towing test. We run our 100-mile highway towing MPG loops with a 7,000 lbs trailer.

Nonetheless, all manufacturers are pushing their truck designs to ever higher maximum towing numbers. Once again, the claimed maximum towing ratings generally belong to 2WD trucks with shorter cabs. Here is how they stack up in terms of maximum towing capability.

• as rated by the manufacturer

If you are wondering how these same trucks stack up in terms of fuel economy, check out our most efficient 2019 trucks article.