Truck Classifications

Truck classifications are generally determined by the maximum weight they can carry, typically measured by the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and occasionally by the gross trailer weight rating (GTWR). These classifications can vary depending on local or regional regulations.

Trucks are categorized into eight different classes, ranging from 1 to 8. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) further groups these into three broader categories: light-duty (classes 1–2), medium-duty (classes 3–6), and heavy-duty (classes 7–8). A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is often required for operating heavy-duty vehicles.

Light-Duty Trucks

• Class 1: GVWR from 0 to 6,000 pounds (0 to 2,722 kg).
  Common Uses: Personal vehicles like SUVs and small pickup trucks, or light-duty service trucks.
  Industries: Residential services such as electricians and landscapers, and general personal transportation.

• Class 2: GVWR from 6,001 to 10,000 pounds (2,722 to 4,536 kg), divided into:

  • Class 2A: 6,001 to 8,500 pounds (2,722 to 3,856 kg).
  • Class 2B: 8,501 to 10,000 pounds (3,856 to 4,536 kg).
    Common Uses: Larger pickup trucks and small commercial vans (e.g., Ford F-250).
    Industries: Used by small businesses for deliveries and trades such as plumbing or HVAC.

• Class 3: GVWR from 10,001 to 14,000 pounds (4,536 to 6,350 kg).
  Common Uses: Heavy-duty pickup trucks and full-size vans (e.g., Ford F-350, cargo vans).
  Industries: Construction, utility work, and small towing services.

Medium-Duty Trucks

• Class 4: GVWR from 14,001 to 16,000 pounds (6,351 to 7,257 kg).
  Common Uses: Small box trucks, large vans, and smaller dump trucks.
  Industries: Local delivery services (e.g., package and goods transport), light construction, and public utilities.

• Class 5: GVWR from 16,001 to 19,500 pounds (7,258 to 8,845 kg).
  Common Uses: Larger box trucks, school buses, and service trucks (e.g., Ford F-550).
  Industries: Medium load transportation, commercial fleets, and local freight.

• Class 6: GVWR from 19,501 to 26,000 pounds (8,846 to 11,793 kg).
  Common Uses: Medium-duty box trucks, single-axle trucks, and beverage delivery vehicles.
  Industries: Food and beverage distribution, local moving companies, and public transportation like shuttle buses.

Heavy-Duty Trucks

• Class 7: GVWR from 26,001 to 33,000 pounds (11,794 to 14,969 kg).
  Common Uses: Garbage trucks, city buses, and larger delivery trucks.
  Industries: Waste management, public transportation, and heavier freight transport.

• Class 8: GVWR above 33,000 pounds (14,969 kg), including tractor-trailers.
  Common Uses: Long-haul tractor-trailers, large dump trucks, and cement mixers.
  Industries: Long-distance freight transportation, construction, and heavy equipment moving.

Trucks classified as Class 7 or higher generally require a Class B CDL for operation in the United States.

GVWR stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, which represents the maximum total weight of a vehicle, including its load.