If you’re in the market for a reliable, hard-working commercial vehicle, the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck deserves your attention. With its commanding presence and 13’6″ height, this medium-duty truck is built to handle serious hauling tasks with ease. Whether you’re running a delivery service, logistics operation, or simply need a dependable addition to your fleet, the C6500 offers a strong combination of performance, versatility, and long-term value.
Built for Tough Jobs
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 is part of GM’s TopKick series—well-known for rugged engineering and dependable service life. It’s designed to handle substantial payloads while providing a smooth, stable ride for drivers. Under the hood, most C6500 models are equipped with a Duramax 6.6L V8 turbo diesel engine, known for its excellent torque and fuel efficiency. Some variations also came with the Caterpillar C7 diesel engine, preferred by many for its raw pulling power and durability.
Performance Highlights:
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Engine options: Duramax 6.6L Diesel or Caterpillar C7
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Horsepower: Up to 300 HP (depending on configuration)
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Transmission: Allison automatic transmission for seamless gear shifting
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GVWR: Can reach up to 25,950 lbs (non-CDL in many states)
Why the 13’6″ Height Matters
One of the most important features to note is the 13 feet 6 inches height of this box truck. This measurement typically refers to the total clearance from the ground to the highest point of the truck. It gives you greater interior volume for tall cargo, which is a huge advantage for transporting furniture, large packages, equipment, or multiple pallets.
However, this height also means clearance awareness is critical. Drivers need to be cautious with overpasses, tunnels, and drive-throughs, especially in urban or older infrastructure areas where low clearances can pose a risk.
Interior Cargo Space
The C6500 is usually paired with a dry van box body ranging between 16 to 26 feet in length. With the tall ceiling and wide interior, there’s plenty of room to install shelves, racks, or custom storage solutions. Many units also come equipped with:
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Roll-up rear doors for quick loading/unloading
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Liftgates or ramps to handle heavy freight with ease
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Plywood-lined walls and cargo tie-downs to keep items secure in transit
Towing and Versatility
Beyond its capacity as a cargo hauler, the 2009 C6500 is also capable of towing moderate to heavy trailers, depending on the exact configuration. It’s often used in industries ranging from moving services to mobile workshops and utility operations.
Its versatility is further boosted by the wide range of available upfits. Whether you need a box truck, flatbed, refrigerated unit, or even a stake body, the C6500 platform is designed to adapt to your business needs.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Chevrolet built the C6500 with serviceability in mind. Engine components are accessible, and replacement parts for Duramax or Caterpillar engines are widely available. With proper maintenance—regular oil changes, brake checks, and fluid inspections—many of these trucks surpass 200,000 to 300,000 miles of reliable service.
Tips When Buying Used:
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Check the service records and ensure regular maintenance was performed
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Check the chassis carefully for signs of corrosion, particularly if the truck has operated in coastal regions or colder northern climates
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Ensure the transmission shifts smoothly
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Verify brake wear, suspension condition, and any signs of leaks
Final Verdict
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck (13’6″) stands out as a practical, durable, and adaptable choice in the medium-duty truck market. Its impressive cargo capacity, dependable drivetrain options, and flexible upfit potential make it a favorite among small business owners and fleet managers alike. If you’re looking for a vehicle that delivers performance without compromise, this box truck is well worth considering.
