Ram 1500 Towing Guide: Capacity, Trailers, and Safety

The Ram 1500 is one of the smoothest-riding half-ton trucks on the market, and it’s also a capable tower. Depending on engine, axle, and tow package, the Ram 1500 can tow between 6,200 and 12,750 lbs. That’s enough for a wide range of utility, dump, enclosed, and car hauler trailers.

Ram 1500 Towing Capacity by Engine

  • 3.6L Pentastar V6: Up to 7,730 lbs
  • 5.7L HEMI V8: Up to 11,610 lbs
  • 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Up to 12,560 lbs
  • 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo Inline-6: Up to 12,750 lbs

Always confirm your specific tow rating from the driver’s door jamb — cab, bed, axle ratio, and package all affect the number.

Payload and Tongue Weight

Ram 1500 payload typically runs 1,500–2,300 lbs depending on trim and equipment. Your tongue weight should be 10–15% of trailer GVWR and must stay within your truck’s payload rating — factoring in passengers and any bed cargo too. A weight-distributing hitch is highly recommended for loads over 6,000 lbs.

Best Trailers for a Ram 1500

  • Utility Trailers: A 7×16 or 83×20 tandem axle utility at 7,000–10,000 lb GVWR is a great all-around option. Diamond C and Iron Bull make solid utility trailers at accessible price points.
  • Dump Trailers: A 7×12 or 7×14 dump rated at 10,000–12,000 lb GVWR is popular with landscapers using Ram 1500s. Loaded to 70–80% capacity, these are manageable and practical.
  • Enclosed Cargo Trailers: 6×12 or 7×14 V-nose enclosed trailers at 6,000–8,000 lb GVWR are popular with contractors and food truck operators. Check out Alcom and Cargo Craft.
  • Car Hauler Trailers: An 18 ft open car hauler at 7,000 lb GVWR can haul one vehicle safely behind a Ram 1500 with the 5.7L or diesel. Aluminum options from Aluma save weight.
  • Tilt Trailers: Low-profile tilt trailers make loading ATVs, mowers, and equipment easy — and a 7,000 lb tilt is right in the Ram 1500’s wheelhouse.

What the Ram 1500 Can’t Tow

Gooseneck trailers, heavy livestock trailers, and large equipment trailers in the 20,000+ lb range are not appropriate for the Ram 1500. For those applications, you need a Ram 2500 or Ram 3500. Check out our gooseneck trailers and plan for an upgrade.

Hitch Setup for Ram 1500

  • Use a Class III or IV receiver (2-inch) with the factory integrated trailer brake controller
  • Add a weight-distributing hitch for loads over 6,000 lbs
  • Ram’s factory trailer brake controller works great — just pair it with electric brake trailers
  • Check tire pressure and suspension before every tow — payload matters

Shop Ram 1500-Compatible Trailers at Trailer Place

Trailer Place stocks utility, dump, enclosed, and car hauler trailers perfectly sized for half-ton trucks like the Ram 1500. We’re in Wharton, TX and offer financing for qualified buyers. Our team will help you find a trailer that fits both your truck and your job.

Call (979) 532-1486 or visit 2507 County Rd 231, Wharton, TX 77488. We also offer nationwide shipping.