In Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi you will hear trucks described by tonnage: “3 ton pickup”, “7 ton”, “10 ton”. The number refers roughly to how much weight the vehicle is meant to carry, but for most moves the real question is space. This guide compares the 3 ton, 7 ton and 10 ton pickup in the UAE so you can book the right one.
Quick comparison
| Truck | Typical use | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 3 ton pickup | Light to medium loads | Studio or 1-bedroom flat, small office, shop stock, a few large appliances |
| 7 ton truck | Medium to large loads | 2–3 bedroom apartment, small villa, office move, event equipment |
| 10 ton truck | Large and heavy loads | Big villas, warehouse transfers, building materials, heavy machinery parts |
Exact box sizes and weight limits vary by make and body, so always confirm with the truck owner.
Weight vs volume – why it matters
Household goods are bulky but light. A family’s furniture often fills a truck long before it reaches the weight limit. Building materials, tiles or steel are the opposite: they reach the weight limit while the truck still looks half empty. So:
- For moving homes and offices – choose by volume (CBM).
- For heavy goods – choose by weight and never overload.
Our free CBM and load calculator checks both at once, and the house moving calculator suggests a size from your list of furniture.
When a 3 ton pickup is enough
- A studio or small 1-bedroom flat with basic furniture.
- Delivering a sofa set, bed and wardrobe from a furniture shop.
- Regular shop or restaurant supply runs.
When to choose a 7 ton truck
- A 2–3 bedroom apartment with full furniture.
- Small office moves with desks, cabinets and IT equipment.
- When one 7-ton trip replaces two 3-ton trips – it often costs less overall.
When you need a 10 ton truck (or more)
- Large villas with heavy wooden furniture and outdoor items.
- Warehouse or shop relocations.
- Construction materials and heavy equipment – check weight limits carefully.
Tips before you book
- Ask for the box length and height, not just the tonnage.
- Check whether helpers, blankets and straps are included.
- Confirm the truck can access your building and the time of day it is allowed on your route.
- Book a little bigger rather than smaller for home moves – a second trip costs more than the extra space.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 3 ton pickup the same everywhere?
No. Body sizes differ between models and owners, so two “3 ton” trucks may carry different volumes.
Can I combine two smaller trucks instead of one big one?
Yes, especially where big trucks cannot enter, but it needs more drivers and helpers.
Own pickups or trucks in the UAE? Post your free ad and get booking calls directly.