Best Used Trucks for Towing in Maryland: What to Look For

If you’re in Maryland and need a pickup that can truly handle towing, whether for work, travel, or daily use, doing your homework before buying a used truck can save you time, money, and frustration.

At Hi Lo Auto Sales, we assist drivers in finding used trucks that match their towing needs, not just what’s listed on a specification sheet.

Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a truck that can pull its weight and then some.

1. Start With What You’ll Be Towing

Before diving into horsepower and trim levels, think about what you’ll actually tow most of the time.

Light loads (up to 5,000 lbs): small boats, compact trailers, or landscaping gear.
Mid-range loads (5,000–10,000 lbs): campers, larger utility trailers, or work equipment.
Heavy loads (10,000 lbs and above): construction machinery, multiple vehicles, or large campers.

Once you know the weight you’ll regularly tow, you can narrow down which truck class fits your needs. This helps avoid overbuying power you don’t really need or ending up with a truck that struggles under pressure.

2. Understand Engine and Transmission Power

A truck’s towing ability depends on torque, gearing, and transmission strength, not just engine size.

Gas engines handle light and moderate towing with ease and usually cost less upfront.
Diesel engines are built for the long haul, offering more torque and fuel efficiency for heavy loads.

For consistent towing, trucks like the Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevy Silverado 2500HD, or RAM 2500 Cummins Diesel are great examples of used models that balance muscle and reliability. But, there are some used models that are well-kept, can even tow over 10,000 pounds, while staying affordable for buyers on a budget.

At Hi Lo Auto Sales, we check how each pre-owned truck performs under real-world conditions, not just whether the engine starts. We look at how the transmission shifts, how the cooling system holds up, and whether the truck was properly maintained by its previous owner. That’s how you know it can still tow safely and confidently.

3. Axle Ratio, Tow Packages, and Stability Matter

Many used trucks already come with factory tow packages, which is already a big plus. These setups include stronger hitches, trailer brake controls, and reinforced cooling systems to handle heavy loads.

Also worth noting: trucks with higher axle ratios (like 3.73 or 4.10) usually offer better pulling power. The trade-off is slightly lower fuel economy, but if towing is your main purpose, the extra strength is worth it.

And while power gets all the attention, stability is what keeps you safe. A solid suspension system helps prevent sway and keeps control on uneven roads, something Maryland drivers deal with often on local backroads or while climbing toward the western mountains.

4. Reliable Used Trucks Known for Strong Towing

Here are some tried-and-tested models Maryland buyers often choose for dependable towing:

Ford F-150 - Max towing Capacity (approx.) up to 13,500 lbs
Chevy Silverado - Max towing Capacity (approx.) up to 13,300 lbs
Ram 1500 - Max towing Capacity (approx.) up to 11,500 lbs
GMC Sierra Z500 - Max towing Capacity (approx.) up to 13,200 lbs
Toyota Tundra - Max towing Capacity (approx.) up to 12,000 lbs

Every model has different strengths, so the key is to help you get matched with the truck based on your needs and the truck’s design. According to experts, several of these pickups also rank among the most reliable used trucks available today.

5. How Hi Lo Auto Sales Helps You Choose the Right Truck

If you don’t know what type of truck for towing to buy, then we can help you. Here’s how we make the process easier:

We start by asking what you plan to tow, how often, and where you’ll be driving.
Then we look for trucks that fit both your performance goals and your budget.
Each truck on our lot goes through a detailed inspection, from frame condition to hitch readiness, so you get a clear picture of what it can actually handle.
Finally, we walk you through real towing specs in simple terms, because we know that not all drivers are car experts, so you’ll understand what each truck can (and shouldn’t) do.

We’re here to help you make an informed decision, and not just push a sale. Our goal is to match you with the right truck you need. Learn more about our process and what sets us apart on our Why Buy Hi Lo Auto Sales page.

6. Smart Tips Before You Buy

Before you sign, keep these quick reminders in mind:

Know your numbers. Check the combined trailer weight and payload capacity your lifestyle requires.
Inspect the hitch setup. Make sure the wiring, ball mount, and brake controller are in good shape.
Look for service records. A well-maintained used truck often tows better and lasts longer.
Test drive with purpose. Feel how it accelerates, brakes, and shifts, especially if you’ll tow often.

Let’s Get You Matched With the Right Tow-Ready Truck - Today!

Towing takes more than horsepower; it takes the right truck, in the right condition, for the right towing job. Whatever you need the truck for towing is, we at Hi Lo Auto Sales can help you find it.

You can check our inventory if you already have the truck you want in mind, or contact us anytime to get personalized recommendations based on your towing needs.