When selecting a trailer-mounted concrete mixer, matching the right size to your vehicle’s hauling capabilities is essential for safety, performance, and compliance. Your truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Tare Weight play a critical role in determining the payload it can safely carry—and ultimately, the size of the mixer you can use.
Understanding GVWR and Tare Weight
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GVWR is the maximum operating weight of a vehicle as specified by the manufacturer, including the vehicle itself, passengers, cargo, and fuel.
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Tare Weight is the weight of the vehicle without any cargo or passengers.
The available payload capacity is simply your GVWR minus the Tare Weight. With one yard of concrete weighing approximately 4,000 lbs, this calculation helps determine the safe maximum concrete load your vehicle can handle.
Even within the same make and model, trucks can vary due to trim level, drivetrain, and optional equipment. Always verify your specific truck’s GVWR and Tare Weight before finalizing your equipment selection.
Recommended Trailer-Mounted Mixer Sizes by Vehicle
Here’s a breakdown of common truck models and the recommended mixer size based on their general GVWR and Tare Weight ranges. Keep this guide handy by downloading it here:
Ford
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F350 – 0.5 to 1 Yard | GVWR: 10,000–14,000 lbs | Tare: 6,700–8,100 lbs
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F450 – 1 to 2 Yard | GVWR: 14,000–16,500 lbs | Tare: 7,000–8,500 lbs
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F550 – 2 to 3 Yard | GVWR: 17,500–19,500 lbs | Tare: 6,500–7,500 lbs
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F650 – 4 to 5 Yard | GVWR: 22,000–29,000 lbs | Tare: 7,000–8,500 lbs
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F750 – 4 to 5 Yard | GVWR: 26,000–33,000 lbs | Tare: 10,000–15,000 lbs
Chevrolet
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4500 HD – 1 Yard | GVWR: 16,500 lbs | Tare: 8,840 lbs
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5500 HD – 2 Yard | GVWR: 19,500 lbs | Tare: 7,507 lbs
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6500 HD – 2 Yard | GVWR: 22,900 lbs | Tare: 5,207 lbs
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Low Cab 5500 HD – 2 Yard | GVWR: 17,950 lbs | Tare: 5,993 lbs
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Low Cab 6500 HD – 3 Yard | GVWR: 25,950 lbs | Tare: 6,500 lbs
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7500 XD – 4 Yard | GVWR: 33,000 lbs | Tare: 10,018 lbs
Isuzu
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NPR-HD – 1 Yard | GVWR: 14,500 lbs | Tare: 5,754 lbs
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NQR – 2 Yard | GVWR: 17,950 lbs | Tare: 6,573 lbs
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NRR – 2 Yard | GVWR: 19,500 lbs | Tare: 6,625 lbs
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FTR – 3 Yard | GVWR: 25,950 lbs | Tare: 9,686 lbs
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FVR – 4 to 5 Yard | GVWR: 33,000 lbs | Tare: 10,089 lbs
Dodge
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4500 – 1 Yard | GVWR: 16,500 lbs | Tare: 7,550 lbs
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5500 – 2 Yard | GVWR: 17,950 lbs | Tare: 6,990 lbs
What’s the Right Trailer-Mounted Concrete Mixer For You?
When investing in a trailer-mounted concrete mixer, proper vehicle pairing is key to safe, efficient operation and long-term performance. Always review your truck’s specifications before making a decision—and if you’re unsure, the Ready Mixer team is here to help you match your vehicle with the right equipment.
👉 Have questions about your truck’s compatibility? Contact us today and we’ll walk you through the right fit for your fleet.
