How Much Tons Can a Semi-Truck Carry?

Semi-trucks, or tractor-trailers, are an essential part of the transportation industry. They are used to transport goods from one place to another, and they have varying capacities for how much they can carry. Semi-trucks vary in size and type, so their capacity for how much tons they can carry also varies.

The maximum legal weight for a semi-truck varies from state to state, as well as depending on the type of cargo being transported. In general, most semi-trucks can carry up to 80,000 pounds (or 40 tons).

However, some states allow semi-trucks to carry up to 90,000 pounds (or 45 tons). The capacity of a semi-truck is determined by its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is determined by the manufacturer.

The size and type of a semi-truck also affects its capacity for how much tons it can carry. For instance, a standard semi-truck may be able to carry up to 40 tons of cargo while a bigger truck with more axles may be able to carry up to 65 tons.

Additionally, different types of trailers may also affect the capacity of a truck. For example, flat bed trailers are often used for transporting heavier materials such as steel or concrete and therefore may be able to hold more than standard box trailers.

In conclusion, the amount of tons that a semi-truck can carry depends on multiple factors such as its GVWR rating and size/type of trailer being used. In general, most semi trucks have a maximum legal weight capacity of 80,000 pounds (or 40 tons) but some states allow them to go up to 90,000 pounds (or 45 tons).

The size and type of trailer also affects how much weight it can hold. Flat bed trailers are often used when transporting heavier materials such as steel or concrete which allows them to hold more than standard box trailers.

Photo of author

Susan Delgado