One of the many perks of owning a half-ton truck is being able to tow heavy loads. Additionally, it’s no secret that some trucks are better than others for towing.
If you’ll be hauling things regularly, you need a vehicle that’ll get the job done.
Today, we’ll examine the specs and capabilities to find the five best half-ton trucks to tow with.
Let’s get going!
Half-Ton Trucks Offer Versatility and Towing Capacity
Over the years, half-ton trucks have become popular with consumers needing to tow heavy loads. Manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Ram continually push the limits for capabilities.
When looking at vehicles for your RV, it’s essential to consider their capacities. Payload refers to the weight you can add. This number includes passengers, cargo, and any poundage carried on a trailer. Exceeding this limit may cause severe damage to your suspension and other critical components.
On the other hand, towing capacity refers to the maximum amount you can safely haul. When determining this value, manufacturers consider several things, including the engine, transmission, axle ratio, and braking system.
You must stay under these ratings to avoid excessive wear and tear.
Unfortunately, looks can be deceiving. In most cases, you’ll need to check the stats on each individually. However, we’ve done the work for you and found some of the best half-ton trucks you can trust to tow your rig.
#1 Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 routinely takes the title as the most popular truck. Its design makes it great for work and play. Whether you’re working on a farm or hauling your family around town, it’s up for the task.
Unfortunately, while XL models start at a reasonable $38,500, they can get expensive quickly. The Platinum tops out at $75,000, while the Platinum Plus is around $85,000.
Specifications
When properly equipped, it has a best-in-class towing capacity of 13,500 pounds. They use high-strength steel to craft the frame and military-grade aluminum alloy for the truck bed. There’s a reason why the brand’s slogan is “Built Ford tough.”
It’s important to know that the max payload for the F-150 is 2,445 pounds. However, this number can vary significantly from one truck to another. Check the label on the driver’s side door jamb for the rating specific to that vehicle.
Best Features
Ford doesn’t shy away from loading their trucks with incredible features for towing and other uses. Some models have seating space for six and offer plenty of legroom, which large families will love.
One of our favorites is the Smart Hitch and its on-board scales. This game-changing system can help you stay within the vehicle’s capabilities. Whether you use the smartphone app, dashboard display, or tail light indicators, staying within weight ratings has never been easier.
Do you know: How Much Can A Ford F-150 Tow?
#2 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
For years, Chevrolet and Ford duked it out for the top spot. The F-150 has sat at the top for years, but the Chevy isn’t going down without a fight. Need proof? Look at the Silverado 1500 to see what we’re talking about.
Specifications
This vehicle has a maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds and a payload between 1,870 and 2,2600 pounds. While it’s more capable than the Ram 1500, it’s still trailing the F-150 by roughly 700 pounds.
However, this is one of the few half-ton towing trucks offering gas and diesel options. While the gas engine provides 420 horsepower, the diesel version offers an impressive 495 pound-feet of torque. You’ll appreciate every bit when hauling a heavy RV up hills and through mountain passes.
Best Features
One of the best features is the impressive variety of trim levels. Whether you plan to use your vehicle for work or play, they’ve got options for you. The ZR2 comes built for off-road surfaces. With 33-inch MT tires, a cut front bumper, and large aluminum skid plates, it can handle almost anything.
In addition, the truck bed offers 12 points to tie down cargo, almost 90 cubic feet of space, and a power tailgate that goes up and down. The multi-flex tailgate is just another way to show off this beautiful truck’s muscles.
#3 Toyota Tundra
While the Toyota Tundra may not deliver best-in-class towing numbers, it’s still a great truck. However, it’s hard to justify the $41,000 starting price when you can get more bang for your buck elsewhere.
Specifications
The Toyota Tundra has a maximum tow rating of 12,000 pounds. Unfortunately, the payload capacity is only 1,940. You’ll likely miss the additional 500 to 600 pounds of extra weight from more capable vehicles.
You’ll get anywhere from 389 to 437 horsepower with two engine options. In addition, the 10-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission makes conquering hills and mountain passes a breeze.
They come with independent double-wishbone front and coil spring multi-link rear suspension. They help ensure a smooth and comfortable ride on paved or off-road surfaces.
Best Features
The twin-turbo engine brings this vehicle to life. Whether you want to work or play hard, it’s up for the task. With three bed sizes, you’ll have room to bring plenty of gear and equipment along.
Composite materials in the bed liner also protect against dents, dings, and rust. It’s a handy addition, especially since you never know what your adventures will throw at you. They give your truck the best chance of looking like new for years to come.
Toyota also loads the Tundra with incredible safety features like dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure with steering assist, and more. Whether heading to the campground or soccer practice, these qualities can help you arrive safe and sound.
These are The 5 Best Dually Trucks in 2023.
#4 Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 claims you can go anywhere, do anything, and tow everything in these beefy trucks. Many satisfied owners are happy to discover that it doesn’t just talk a big game. Each year, they go toe-to-toe with Ford and other manufacturers.
Specifications
The Ram 1500 has several engine options, ranging from a 305 horsepower V-6 to a beastly 395 horsepower V-8. When properly equipped, it maxes out at 12,750 pounds for towing and a payload of 2,230 pounds. While that’s less than the Ford F-150, it makes up for it in other categories.
The second you climb into the cab, you’ll feel the difference. With upgraded coil springs and the option for air springs, you’ll have an incredibly smooth ride. Additionally, you can enjoy luxury features like heated and ventilated seats, wood accents, and a massive panoramic sunroof.
Best Features
Some other features make certain tasks easy. A trailer hitch light and incredible tailgate strength are nice. However, one of our favorites is the Rambox cargo management system.
These compartments make use of the hollow space in the side rails in the bed of the truck. They’re great for a cooler, toolbox, or many other options. With a 115-volt auxiliary outlet, you can power or charge electronics during your adventures.
#5 GMC Sierra 1500
The GMC Sierra 1500 is the final entry on our list of best half-ton trucks for towing. However, just because it’s last, doesn’t mean it’s least.
Specifications
If the GMC Sierra 1500 looks familiar, it’s nearly identical to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Many of the features and capabilities are relatively similar between the two vehicles. It has the same configuration as the Chevy, including cab and bed sizes.
As far as power, it also offers variety. Gas options are available from their turbocharged four-cylinder to the beefier 5.3 and 6.2-liter V-8. They also have a powerful Duramax diesel engine if you need 460 pound-feet of torque.
It has a maximum towing capacity of 13,200 pounds, with a payload of 2,240 pounds. Again, this is nearly identical to what you’d expect from the Silverado 1500. However, the Sierra 1500 comes with a slightly higher starting price.
Best Features
Like many other trucks we’ve discussed, the Sierra 1500 has many fancy features. Things like hands-free driver assistance, a multi-functioning tailgate, and up to 14 camera views are just a few. You can see almost everything with a transparent trailer view, hitch view, and many more angles.
Their Prograde trailering system helps make hitching and towing much simpler.
Check out the most popular hitches for fifth-wheel towing: Anderson Hitches.
With These Trucks, Towing Is A Breeze!
There’s a lot to consider when shopping for trucks with towing in mind. Take your time during the process and do your research. Unfortunately, you can’t trust everything a salesperson tells you. Doing your homework can help you get the right vehicle for your RV and avoid buyer’s remorse.
Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA
To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: