The 2000 Ford Ranger, being a compact truck, was designed with practicality and versatility in mind, making it a reliable choice for light-duty hauling. However, as a smaller truck, its payload capacities were modest compared to larger vehicles.
* Depending on the drivetrain and cab configuration, the base payload capacity for the 2000 Ford Ranger ranges from 1,260 pounds to 1,660 pounds.
These figures highlight the Ranger's ability to handle everyday tasks efficiently, whether you're carrying tools, equipment, or other cargo. While it may not be suited for heavy-duty loads, the Ranger's payload ratings reflect its role as a capable and economical workhorse for lighter hauling needs.

To calculate the exact payload capacity of your specific 2000 Ford Ranger, you’ll need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Find the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
The GVWR is the maximum weight your truck can handle, including its own weight, passengers, cargo, and any added equipment.
- This information can be found on the safety certification label located on the driver’s side doorjamb or on the door.

Step 2: Determine Your Curb Weight
The curb weight is the weight of the truck with all standard equipment, fluids, and a full tank of fuel, but without passengers or cargo.
- The most accurate way to determine your truck's weight is to take it to a certified scale (full of gas) and have it professionally weighed.
Weigh Station Locations...
These scales are commonly found at truck stops, recycling centers, or weigh stations, and they provide precise measurements of your vehicle's actual weight.
By doing this, you can account for any modifications, additional equipment, or cargo that might affect your truck's weight, ensuring you have an exact figure.
Step 3: Subtract the Curb Weight from the GVWR
Use this formula to calculate your payload capacity:
GVWR - Curb Weight = Payload Capacity
For example, let’s say you own a 2000 Ford Ranger with a 4WD drivetrain and a SuperCab configuration.
If the truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is 5,140 pounds and its curb weight, including fuel and all standard equipment, is 3,600 pounds, you can calculate the payload capacity by subtracting the curb weight from the GVWR.
- If your 2000 Ford Ranger’s GVWR is 4,600 lbs. and the curb weight (after weighing it) is 3,300 lbs., the payload capacity formula would look like this:
5,140 lbs. - 3,600 lbs. = 1,540 lbs. of Payload Capacity
In this case, the payload capacity would be 1,540 pounds. This demonstrates how understanding your truck’s specifications can help ensure you stay within safe operating limits for hauling cargo or equipment.
Step 4: Account for Added Equipment (If Necessary)
If you used a curb weight figure you found for your truck, you will need to calculate any of the added accessories or modifications weight (e.g., a toolbox or aftermarket bumpers), and subtract this additional weight from the calculated payload capacity.
* These additions increase the curb weight and reduce the overall payload capacity available for your truck.
Step 5: Verify Your Calculations
- Double-check your math and confirm the results with your truck's specific configuration. For maximum accuracy, I really recommend weighing your truck at a certified scale to determine the EXACT CURB WEIGHT with any additional aftermarket equipment that is installed.
Passenger Weight, Accessories & Payload Capacity...
It’s important to remember that the payload capacity of your 2000 Ford Ranger isn’t just reserved for cargo—it also includes the weight of passengers and any aftermarket accessories you are hauling around too.
An Example of This: Each passenger adds to the curb weight of your truck, which in turn reduces the available payload capacity. For instance, if your Ranger has a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds and you add three passengers weighing 150 pounds each, that’s 450 pounds subtracted from your available capacity, leaving only 1,050 pounds for cargo.
The same goes for aftermarket accessories like toolboxes, bed liners, or upgraded bumpers that also contribute to the curb weight of your truck. These modifications, while useful, reduce the amount of weight you can safely carry.
Weigh Your Truck...
For the most accurate calculations, you really need to weigh your truck with any added equipment and passengers included to determine your true remaining payload capacity.
Always stay within the manufacturer’s recommended limits to ensure safety and performance.
The information in this article was gathered from reliable sources, mainly the 2000 Ford Ranger Brochure, ensuring accuracy and detailed insights into the truck's specifications that I needed.