What does a tire load rating of E indicate?

A tire load rating of E indicates heavy-duty tires, such as those required by full-sized pickup trucks or cargo vans. For example, 3/4- or 1-ton trucks and vans require E-rated tires. Tires with E load ratings are equivalent to 10-ply-rate tires.

Heavy trucks and vans in series such as 250, 350, 2500 and 3500 from various manufacturers require load-range E tires. These tires are used in off-road driving, in areas where road conditions are poor, and on vehicles carrying or towing heavy loads frequently. To determine the load rating required for a tire, drivers check the vehicle’s gross axle weight rating, usually displayed on a placard on the doorjamb on the driver’s side.