Cargo vans come in various roof height,wheelbase, and engine options affect their overall weight and hauling capabilities.
Here’s examples of how much some of the most popular cargo vans weigh, including their payload and gross vehicle weight ratings:
- Ford Transit:
- Curb weight – 4,985-5,847 lbs
- Payload – 3,060-5,110 lbs
- GVWR – 8,670-11,000 lbs
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter:
- Curb weight – 4,696-6,206 lbs
- Payload – 3,296-6,823 lbs
- GVWR – 8,550-12,125 lbs
- Ram ProMaster:
- Curb weight – 4,554-5,020 lbs
- Payload – 3,763-4,681 lbs
- GVWR – 8,550-9,350 lbs
Note that all of these curb weight and limit amounts are real as they’re based on official data provided by each manufacturer.
Each cargo van’s specific overall weight and weight limits of are determined by its configuration and technical characteristics.
For example, a large cargo van with an extended wheelbase, high roof, and the most powerful engine in the lineup (if applicable) will have the highest curb weight and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
However, a high roof configuration with a large engine doesn’t always equal more payload (e.g. the Nissan NV3500 5.6L V8 high roof model).
To help you learn more about the various weight factors of cargo vans, in this article, I’ll cover the following topics:
- Real curb weight examples of different cargo van models.
- Real examples of weight limits of different cargo vans.
- An in-depth explanation about the cargo van weight capacity types.
- The different cargo van weight classes and categories.
Real Examples of Cargo Van Base Curb Weight
Curb weight is the overall weight of a cargo van, without any passengers or cargo.
And here are several curb weight examples of some of the most popular cargo vans out there:
Ford Transit Cargo Van
Below I’ve gathered the base curb weight for all Ford Transit cargo van variations.
Regular Wheelbase and Low Roof
Engine option #1 – 3.5L PFDI Gas:
- Base curb weight – 4,985 lbs (RWD) or 5,210 lbs (AWD)
Engine option #2 – 3.5L EcoBoost:
- Base curb weight – 5,066 lbs (RWD) or 5,294 lbs (AWD)
Regular Wheelbase and Medium Roof
Engine option #1 – 3.5L PFDI Gas:
- Base curb weight – 5,115 lbs (RWD) or 5,340 lbs (AWD)
Engine option #2 – 3.5L EcoBoost:
- Base curb weight – 5,201 lbs (RWD) or 5,429 lbs (AWD)
Long Wheelbase and Low Roof
Engine option #1 – 3.5L PFDI Gas:
- Base curb weight – 5,087 lbs (RWD) or 5,323 lbs (AWD)
Engine option #2 – 3.5L EcoBoost:
- Base curb weight – 5,171 lbs (RWD) or 5,403 lbs (AWD)
Long Wheelbase and Medium Roof
Engine option #1 – 3.5L PFDI Gas:
- Base curb weight – 5,235 lbs (RWD) or 5,471 lbs (AWD)
Engine option #2 – 3.5L EcoBoost:
- Base curb weight – 5,318 lbs(RWD) or 5,550 lbs (AWD)
Long Wheelbase and High Roof
Engine option #1 – 3.5L PFDI Gas:
- Base curb weight – 5,330 lbs (RWD) or 5,566 lbs (AWD)
Engine option #2 – 3.5L EcoBoost:
- Base curb weight – 5,413 lbs(RWD) or 5,645 lbs (AWD)
Long Extended Wheelbase and High Roof
Engine option #1 – 3.5L PFDI Gas:
- Base curb weight – 5,533 lbs (RWD) or 5,769 lbs (AWD)
Engine option #2 – 3.5L EcoBoost:
- Base curb weight – 5,615 lbs(RWD) or 5,847 lbs (AWD)
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van
These are the base curb weight number for all the different models and specs in the MB Sprinter cargo van lineup:
144” Wheelbase and Standard Roof
1500 Model
1500 with a 4 cylinder gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,696 lbs
2500 Model
2500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,806 lbs
2500 with a 4 cylinder gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,696 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,894 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 5,247 lbs
3500 Model
3500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,412 lbs
3500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,346 lbs
3500XD with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,346 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,346 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 5,644 lbs
4500 Model
4500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,357 lbs
4500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,368 lbs
144” Wheelbase and High Roof
1500 Model
1500 with a 4 cylinder gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,696 lbs
2500 Model
2500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,806 lbs
2500 with a 4 cylinder gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,784 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,971 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 5,324 lbs
3500 Model
3500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,412 lbs
3500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,423 lbs
3500XD with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,346 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,423 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 5,710 lbs
4500 Model
4500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,357 lbs
4500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,478 lbs
170” Wheelbase and High Roof
2500 Model
2500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,214 lbs
2500 with a 4 cylinder gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,115 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,291 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 5,655 lbs
3500 Model
3500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,412 lbs
3500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,412 lbs
3500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,776 lbs
3500XD with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,754 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,776 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 6,085 lbs
4500 Model
4500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,831 lbs
4500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,798 lbs
170” Extended Wheelbase and High Roof
2500 Model
2500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,445 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,401 lbs
2500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 5,754 lbs
3500 Model
3500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,897 lbs
3500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,897 lbs
3500XD with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,842 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,897 lbs
3500XD with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and 4×4:
- Base curb weight – 6,206 lbs
4500 Model
4500 with a 4 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,831 lbs
4500 with a 6 cylinder diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,930 lbs
Ram ProMaster Cargo Van
This is how much each of the ProMaster cargo van versions weighs without any cargo or passengers:
118” Wheelbase and Low Roof
1500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,554 lbs
136” Wheelbase and Low Roof
1500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,662 lbs
2500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,644 lbs
3500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,669 lbs
136” Wheelbase and High Roof
1500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,787 lbs
2500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,768 lbs
3500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,796 lbs
159” Wheelbase and High Roof
2500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,895 lbs
3500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 4,923 lbs
159” Extended Wheelbase and High Roof
3500 Model:
- Base curb weight – 5,020 lbs
Chevrolet Express Cargo Van
Here’s the specific curb weight of each cargo van in the Chevy Express lineup.
Note that there’s only one roof height available for this cargo van model – there are no low, medium or high options.
2500 Regular Wheelbase
6.6L V8 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,488 lbs
4.3L V6 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,261 lbs
2.8L 4-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 5,673 lbs
2500 Extended Wheelbase
6.6L V8 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 2,790 lbs
4.3L V6 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 3,060 lbs
2.8L 4-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 2,660 lbs
3500 Regular Wheelbase
6.6L V8 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,010 lbs
4.3L V6 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,280 lbs
2.8L 4-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 3,870 lbs
3500 Extended Wheelbase
6.6L V8 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,090 lbs
4.3L V6 gasoline engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 4,060 lbs
2.8L 4-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine and RWD:
- Base curb weight – 3,960 lbs
Nissan NV Cargo Van
And these are the base curb weight figures of the popular Japanese-built Nissan NV cargo van:
NV1500 S
Standard roof with a V6 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 5,820 lbs
NV1500 SV
Standard roof with a V6 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 5,923 lbs
NV2500HD S
Standard roof with a V6 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 5,821 lbs
High roof with a V6 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 5,985 lbs
NV2500HD SV
Standard roof with a V6 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 5,959 lbs
Standard roof with a V8 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 6,175 lbs
High roof with a V6 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 6,123 lbs
High roof with a V8 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 6,337 lbs
NV3500HD SV
Standard roof with a V8 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 6,182 lbs
High roof with a V8 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 6,345 lbs
NV3500HD SV
High roof with a V8 gasoline engine:
- Base curb weight – 6,359 lbs
Real Examples of Cargo Van Weight Limits
The weight limit of a cargo van is pre-determined by the manufacturer for each model, and it represents the maximum loaded weight of the van.
This is also known as the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).Here are some relevant cargo van weight limit examples, including the GVWR, maximum towing capacity, and maximum payload of different cargo van models and specs:
Ford Transit Cargo Van Weight Limit
Model: T-150
| Roof: | Length: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,300 / 6,400 | 280.9 | 3,630 | 8,670 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,900 | 280.9 | 3,550 | 8,670 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 280.9 | 3,400 | 8,670 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,800 | 280.9 | 3,320 | 8,670 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 311.9 | 3,530 | 8,670 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 311.9 | 3,440 | 8,670 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 311.9 | 3,290 | 8,670 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 311.9 | 3,210 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,300 / 6,400 | 358.7 | 3,500 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,900 | 358.7 | 3,410 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 358.7 | 3,270 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,800 | 358.7 | 3,180 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 400.5 | 3,380 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 400.5 | 3,290 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 400.5 | 3,140 | 8,670 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 400.5 | 3,060 | 8,670 |
Model: T-250
| Roof: | Length: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,300 / 6,400 | 280.9 | 4,030 | 9,070 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,900 | 280.9 | 3,950 | 9,070 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 280.9 | 3,800 | 9,070 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,800 | 280.9 | 3,720 | 9,070 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 311.9 | 3,930 | 9,070 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 311.9 | 3,840 | 9,070 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 311.9 | 3,690 | 9,070 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 311.9 | 3,610 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,300 / 6,400 | 358.7 | 3,900 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,900 | 358.7 | 3,810 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 358.7 | 3,670 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,800 | 358.7 | 3,580 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 400.5 | 3,780 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 400.5 | 3,690 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 400.5 | 3,540 | 9,070 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 400.5 | 3,460 | 9,070 |
| High | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 453.4 | 3,680 | 9,070 |
| 9,070 | High | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 453.4 | 3,600 |
| High | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 453.4 | 3,440 | 9,070 |
| High | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 453.4 | 3,360 | 9,070 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 536.4 | 3,480 | 9,070 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 536.4 | 3,390 | 9,070 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 536.4 | 3,240 | 9,070 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 536.4 | 3,160 | 9,070 |
Model: T-350
| Roof: | Length: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,300 / 6,400 | 280.9 | 4,460 | 9,500 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,900 | 280.9 | 4,380 | 9,500 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 280.9 | 4,230 | 9,500 |
| Low | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,800 | 280.9 | 4,150 | 9,500 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 311.9 | 4,360 | 9,500 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 311.9 | 4,280 | 9,500 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 311.9 | 4,120 | 9,500 |
| Low | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 311.9 | 4,050 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,300 / 6,400 | 358.7 | 4,330 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,900 | 358.7 | 4,240 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 358.7 | 4,100 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Regular | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,800 | 358.7 | 4,010 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 400.5 | 4,210 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 400.5 | 4,120 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 400.5 | 3,970 | 9,500 |
| Medium | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 400.5 | 3,890 | 9,500 |
| High | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 453.4 | 4,110 | 9,500 |
| High | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 453.4 | 4,030 | 9,500 |
| High | Long | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 453.4 | 3,870 | 9,500 |
| High | Long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 453.4 | 3,800 | 9,500 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 536.4 | 3,910 | 9,500 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 536.4 | 3,820 | 9,500 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 536.4 | 3,670 | 9,500 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 536.4 | 3,590 | 9,500 |
Model: T-350HD DWR
| Roof: | Length: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 536.4 | 4,090 | 9,900 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 536.4 | 3,850 | 9,900 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 536.4 | 4,140 | 9,950 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 536.4 | 4,060 | 9,950 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | AWD | 4,900 / 6,000 | 536.4 | 3,900 | 9,950 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 536.4 | 3,820 | 9,950 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L PFDI V6 | RWD | 5,100 / 6,200 | 536.4 | 4,550 | 10,360 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 536.4 | 4,470 | 10,360 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 536.4 | 4,230 | 10,360 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 6,800 | 536.4 | 5,110 | 11,000 |
| High | Long-EL | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | AWD | 6,600 | 536.4 | 4,870 | 11,000 |
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van Weight Limit
Spec: 144’’ Wheelbase and Standard Roof
| Model: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| 1500 | 4-cylinder gas | RWD | 5,000 | 319 | 3,920 | 8,550 |
| 2500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 319 | 4,244 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 4-cylinder gas | RWD | 5,000 | 319 | 4,420 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 319 | 4,156 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 5,000 | 319 | 3,803 | 9,050 |
| 3500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 319 | 4,620 | 9,900 |
| 3500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 222.5 | 4,644 | 9,900 |
| 3500XD | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 5,761 | 5,761 | 11,030 |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 281.1 | 5,684 | 11,030 |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 7,500 | 281.1 | 5,386 | 11,030 |
| 4500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 281.1 | 6,823 | 12,125 |
| 4500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 281.1 | 6,757 | 12,125 |
Spec: 144’’ Wheelbase and High Roof
| Model: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs) | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): | |
| 1500 | 4-cylinder gas | RWD | 5,000 | 372.8 | 3,920 | 8,550 | |
| 2500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 319 | 4,167 | 9,050 | |
| 2500 | 4-cylinder gas | RWD | 5,000 | 372.8 | 4,420 | 9,050 | |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 374.30 | 4,079 | 9,050 | |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 5,000 | 374.30 | 3,726 | 9,050 | |
| 3500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 319 | 4,543 | 9,900 | 8,550 |
| 3500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 328.5 | 4,567 | 9,900 | |
| 3500XD | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 281.1 | 5,684 | 11,030 | |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 7,500 | 328.5 | 5,607 | 11,030 | |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 7,500 | 328.5 | 5,320 | 11,030 | |
| 4500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 281.1 | 6,823 | 12,125 | |
| 4500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 281.1 | 6,647 | 12,125 |
Spec: 170’’ Wheelbase and High Roof
| Model: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| 2500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 488.1 | 3,836 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 4-cylinder gas | RWD | 5,000 | 488.1 | 4,012 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 488.1 | 3,759 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 5,000 | 488.1 | 3,395 | 9,050 |
| 3500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 328.5 | 4,190 | 9,900 |
| 3500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 430.1 | 4,214 | 9,900 |
| 3500XD | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 430.1 | 5.331 | 11,030 |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 430.1 | 5,254 | 11,030 |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 7,500 | 430.1 | 4,945 | 11,030 |
| 4500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 430.1 | 6,823 | 12,125 |
| 4500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 430.1 | 6,327 | 12,125 |
Spec: 170’’ Extended Wheelbase and High Roof
| Model: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| 2500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 532.6 | 3,726 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 532.6 | 3,649 | 9,050 | 9,050 |
| 2500 | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 532.6 | 3,296 | 9,050 | 9,050 |
| 3500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 469.4 | 4,113 | 9,990 | 9,990 |
| 3500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 469.4 | 4,093 | 9,990 | 9,990 |
| 3500XD | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 469.4 | 5,243 | 11,030 |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 5,000 | 469.4 | 5,133 | 11,030 |
| 3500XD | 6-cylinder diesel | AWD | 5,000 | 469.4 | 4,824 | 11,030 |
| 4500 | 4-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 430.1 | 6,823 | 12,125 |
| 4500 | 6-cylinder diesel | RWD | 7,500 | 469.4 | 6,195 | 12,125 |
Ram ProMaster Cargo Van Weight Limit
Model: 1500
| Roof: | Wheelbase: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): | |
| Low | 118’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,910 | 259 | 3,996 | 8,550 | |
| Low | 136’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,800 | 304 | 3,888 | 8,550 | |
| High | 136’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,700 | 353 | 3,763 | 8,550 |
Model: 2500
| Roof: | Wheelbase: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| Low | 136’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,800 | 304 | 4,256 | 8,900 |
| High | 136’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,700 | 353 | 4,123 | 8,900 |
| High | 159’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,480 | 420 | 4,005 | 8,900 |
Model: 3500
| Roof: | Wheelbase: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| Low | 136’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,700 | 304 | 4,681 | 9,350 |
| High | 136’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,600 | 353 | 4,554 | 9,350 |
| High | 159’’ | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,480 | 420 | 4,427 | 9,350 |
| High | 159’’ Extended | 3.6L V6 gas | FWD | 6,410 | 463 | 4,330 | 9,350 |
Chevrolet Express Cargo Van Weight Limit
Model: 2500
| Roof: | Wheelbase: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| Standard | Regular | 2.8L diesel | RWD | 7,000 | 239.4 | 2,870 | 8,600 |
| Standard | Regular | 4.3L V6 gas | RWD | 7,400 | 239.4 | 3,280 | 8,600 |
| Standard | Regular | 6.6L V8 gas | RWD | 10,000 | 239.4 | 3,060 | 8,600 |
| Standard | Extended | 2.8L diesel | RWD | 7,000 | 283.6 | 6,100 | 8,600 |
| Standard | Extended | 4.3L V6 gas | RWD | 7,400 | 283.6 | 7,100 | 8,600 |
| Standard | Extended | 6.6L V8 gas | RWD | 10,000 | 283.6 | 10,000 | 8,600 |
Model: 3500
| Roof: | Wheelbase: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| Standard | Regular | 2.8L diesel | RWD | 7,000 | 239.4 | 6,200 | 9,600 |
| Standard | Regular | 4.3L V6 gas | RWD | 7,400 | 239.4 | 7,400 | 9,600 |
| Standard | Regular | 6.6L V8 gas | RWD | 10,000 | 239.4 | 10,000 | 9,600 |
| Standard | Extended | 2.8L diesel | RWD | 7,000 | 283.6 | 6,000 | 9,900 |
| Standard | Extended | 4.3L V6 gas | RWD | 7,400 | 283.6 | 7,200 | 9,600 |
| Standard | Extended | 6.6L V8 gas | RWD | 10,000 | 283.6 | 10,000 | 9,900 |
Nissan NV Cargo Van Weight Limit
Model: 1500
| Spec: | Roof: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| 1500S | Standard | 4.0L V6 gas | RWD | 2,000 | 234.1 | 2,730 | 8,500 |
| 1500SV | Standard | 4.0L V6 gas | RWD | 2,000 | 234.1 | 2,620 | 8,500 |
Model: 2500
| Spec: | Roof: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| 2500HD S | Standard | 4.0L V6 gas | RWD | 2,000 | 234.1 | 3,270 | 9,100 |
| 2500HD S | High | 4.0L V6 gas | RWD | 2,000 | 234.1 | 3,110 | 9,100 |
| 2500HD SV | Standard | 4.0L V6 gas | RWD | 2,000 | 234.1 | 3,140 | 9,100 |
| 2500HD SV | Standard | 5.6L V8 gas | RWD | 9,400 | 234.1 | 2,920 | 9,100 |
| 2500HD SV | High | 4.0L V6 gas | RWD | 2,000 | 323.1 | 2,970 | 9,100 |
| 2500HD SV | High | 5.6L V8 gas | RWD | 9,400 | 323.1 | 2,760 | 9,100 |
Model: 3500
| Spec: | Roof: | Engine: | Drivetrain: | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs): | Max. Cargo Volume (cubic feet): | Max Payload (lbs): | GVWR (lbs): |
| 3500HD SV | Standard | 5.6L V8 gas | RWD | 9,400 | 234.1 | 3,710 | 9,900 |
| 3500HD SV | High | 5.6L V8 gas | RWD | 9,400 | 323.1 | 3,550 | 9,900 |
| 3500HD SL | High | 5.6L V8 gas | RWD | 9,400 | 323.1 | 3,540 | 9,900 |
Cargo Van Weight Capacity Types Explained
There are 3 main weight capacity types for cargo vans that you need to know about:
- GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating)
- Curb weight
- Payload
Each weight capacity type represents a different number that’s directly tied to how big a cargo van is and how much weight it can carry.
Here’s an easy-to-digest explanation of each cargo van weight capacity type:
Gross Vehicle Weight Training
The GVWR is the maximum loaded weight of the cargo van that’s determined by the manufacturer.
This is the overall loaded weight of the van that includes everything from passengers to cargo.
This weight rating is based on various factors such as the frame, wheels, axles, and the suspension of a cargo van.
Curb Weight
Curb weight is the total weight of a cargo van, without any cargo or passengers.
However, this weight includes the weight of any fuel or other fluids (e.g. coolant fluid) that a van needs in order to run.
The curb weight is simply how much your cargo van weighs when it doesn’t have anyone (including the driver) or anything (in the form of cargo or other items) inside.
Payload
Payload refers to the maximum amount of weight that a cargo van can safely transport (passengers and/or cargo), specifically in the cargo area.
To put it simply, the payload is how much the cargo actually weighs.
For example, if your cargo van has a payload of 4,000 lbs, then this means that it can safely haul 4,000 lbs of weight inside, mainly in the cargo area.
Cargo Van Weight Classes and Categories
Cargo vans officially fall within vehicles classes 1-3 according to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA),
Each vehicle class and category is based on a specific gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) that ranges from less than 6,000 lbs (class 1/light duty) to over 33,001 lbs (class 8/heavy duty).
These are the vehicle classes and GVWR categories that affect cargo vans:
- Class 1: <6,000 lbs GVWR (light duty)
- Class 2: 6,001 to 10,000 lbs GVWR (light duty)
- Class 3: 10,001 to 14,000 lbs GVWR (medium duty)
Note that there are no cargo vans found under categories 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 because the cargo van with the highest GVWR is the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with up to 12,125 lbs if properly equipped.
Conclusion
Most cargo vans are available in multiple roof heights, wheelbase, body lengths and engine options.These determine their total weight and the maximum weight they can transport.
Some of the most popular cargo vans out there have an average curb weight that ranges from 4,554-6,206 lbs, an average payload ranging from 3,060-6,823, and an average GVWR that ranges from around 8,550-12,125 lbs.
The primary factor that affects the curb weight, payload, and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of a cargo van is its configuration that’s represented by the:
- Roof height
- Body length
- Wheelbase
- Engine
- Drivetrain
Logically, a larger cargo van with a high roof, an extended wheelbase, and a big V8 engine will have greater GVWR and curb weight figures.
But this doesn’t always translate to a superior payload i.e. how much passengers and/or cargo the cargo van can haul, specifically in the cargo area.
That’s why I’d recommend always checking the specific curb weight, payload, and GVWR amounts of a particular cargo van to ensure that it meets your needs.