[flybouy]

When it comes to truck payload the manufacturers will pick the maximum amount that a series CAN be equipped to tow. That's the max number based on the MOST MINUMILAY equipped truck in that class. That's a base model with zero options.

From that base model you add a radio, speakers, air conditioning, leather seats, cameras, running boards, 4 wheel drive, dual batteries and a zillion other fancy do-dads. All that comes directly off of the payload. After the factory weights the truck they affix the payload capacity sticker. It's the GVW of the truck minus what the truck ACTALLY weighs. So the more added in, the less payload remaining.

After the truck leaves the factory if the dealer adds any options say a bed liner, a tonnoue cover, running boards, undercoating, even floor mats further reduce payload but the sticker remains the same because that's not required to change under current law.

After you get it home and add a hitch, a cell phone holder, stuff in the console, change in the cup holder, tool box and tools in the bed, etc. THAT comes off the payload as well. The only way to truly KNOW what you have is to weigh it. Load it up to go camping with EVERYTHING in the truck, firewood, DW, kids, dog, etc. Then take that weight and subtract it from the truck's GVWR. What remains is the available payload.

Hit the scale with the truck loaded and the trailer in tow and you can KNOW what the trailer weights, what the tongue or pin weight is and where you actually stand. So how do you know BEFORE you buy? You can't, so the only thing you can do is estimate.

To estimate use the trailer GTWR unless you already own it and can weight it. For travel trailers use 15% of GTWR as tongue weight and for fifth wheels use 23%. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS use the GTWR and do not kid yourself into thinking that you'll "pack light", "only travel short distances" or any of the other BS excuses to justify a truck that will "just get by on the numbers".