RAM's Build and Price Tool Lets You Configure Your Truck Before You Shop
RAM's official build-and-price tool on their website lets you select a model, engine, trim level, and features, then shows you the starting price for that exact configuration. You do not have to visit a dealership or call anyone — you can explore options at your own pace and see real pricing before you talk to a salesperson. The tool works for all current RAM truck models: the 1500, 2500, and 3500.
The process takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on how many options you want to compare. At the end, you get a summary sheet you can save, print, or email to yourself. Many people use this to walk into a dealership with a specific configuration already in mind, which can speed up the negotiation process.
Key Takeaways
- RAM's build-and-price tool on ram.com shows you the starting price for any truck configuration you select, updated to reflect current pricing.
- You can customize engine type, transmission, cab style, bed length, trim level, and individual features like towing packages or interior upgrades.
- The tool displays the price impact of each option you add, so you can see exactly what features cost.
- The final summary includes the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), but actual dealer prices may vary based on local market conditions and dealer markup.
- You can save or print your configuration to bring to a dealership or use for comparing prices across multiple dealers.
How to Access RAM's Build and Price Tool
Go to ram.com and look for the "Build and Price" button, usually located in the top navigation menu or on the homepage. Click it and you will be asked to choose a model first: the 1500 (half-ton), 2500 (three-quarter-ton), or 3500 (one-ton). Each model has different engine options, towing capacity, and price ranges, so pick the one that matches what you need the truck to do.
Once you select a model, the tool will show you available body styles: Regular Cab, Crew Cab, or Quad Cab, depending on the model. It will also ask you to choose bed length — typically 5.5 feet, 6.5 feet, or 8 feet. These choices affect the base price, so the tool updates the starting price as you go.
Selecting Engine, Transmission, and Drivetrain
After you choose the body style and bed length, the tool presents engine options. RAM trucks typically offer a gasoline V8, a diesel engine (on 2500 and 3500 models), and sometimes a hybrid option on the 1500. Each engine has a different price, fuel economy rating, and towing capacity. The tool shows all three so you can compare.
Next you will choose transmission type — usually a 6-speed, 8-speed, or 10-speed automatic, depending on the engine. You will also select drivetrain: two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Four-wheel drive costs more but gives you better traction in snow, mud, or off-road conditions. The tool updates the price for each choice.
Choosing Trim Level and Interior Features
RAM organizes trucks into trim levels that bundle features together: Tradesman, SLT, Big Horn, Laramie, and Limited are common names, though they vary by model year. Each trim level includes a set of standard features — for example, Tradesman might include basic cloth seats and manual windows, while Laramie adds leather, power seats, and a nicer stereo. The tool shows what comes standard with each trim.
Once you pick a trim, you can add optional packages or individual features: a towing package, a luxury interior package, a technology package with a larger touchscreen, heated or cooled seats, a sunroof, or a premium sound system. Each option shows its price impact when ready, so you can see whether adding a $2,000 package is worth it to you.
Understanding the Final Price and What It Includes
At the end of the configuration process, the tool displays the MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price) for your exact truck. This is the price RAM suggests dealers charge — it includes the base truck, your chosen engine and transmission, your trim level, and all the options you selected. It does not include destination charges (the cost to ship the truck from the factory to the dealer), taxes, or dealer fees.
The MSRP shown is a starting point, not a final price. Actual prices at dealerships can be higher or lower depending on local demand, dealer inventory, and negotiation. Some dealers mark up popular models; others discount to move inventory. The tool gives you the manufacturer's number so you know what to expect when you contact dealers.
You can also see a breakdown of what each component costs: the base truck price, the engine upcharge, the transmission upcharge, each package, and each individual option. This breakdown is useful when you are negotiating with a dealer, because you can point to the official price for each feature.
Saving and Sharing Your Configuration
Once you finish building your truck, the tool offers options to save your work. You can print the summary page, which includes your configuration details, the MSRP, and a QR code or link. You can also email the summary to yourself or share it with someone else — useful if you are shopping with a spouse or want to send it to multiple dealers to request quotes.
Some dealerships have their own inventory management systems that can search for trucks matching your configuration. If you bring your printed summary or email it to a dealer, they can look for that exact truck in their inventory or order one from RAM if it is not in stock. Having your configuration written down saves time and reduces the chance of miscommunication.
Comparing Prices Across Dealerships
The MSRP from RAM's tool is the same everywhere — it is set by the manufacturer. However, dealer prices vary. After you build your truck, you can take your configuration to multiple dealerships and ask each one for a quote on that exact model. This lets you compare what different dealers are charging for the same truck.
When you contact dealers, mention that you have a specific configuration in mind and ask whether they have it in stock or how long it would take to order. Some dealers will negotiate on price; others will not. Having your configuration documented makes these conversations faster and more productive, because the dealer knows exactly what you want and can give you an accurate quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the price on RAM's build and price tool include destination charges and taxes?
No. The MSRP shown is the manufacturer's suggested price for the truck itself. Destination charges (typically $1,000 to $1,500) are added by the dealer, and taxes and registration fees depend on your state and county. Ask the dealer for a full out-the-door price that includes all fees.
Can I order a truck directly from RAM using the build and price tool?
No. The tool shows you pricing and lets you save your configuration, but you cannot order directly from RAM. You must contact a RAM dealership to place an order. You can bring your configuration to any dealer, and they will handle the order and delivery.
What if the truck I configured is not in stock at any nearby dealership?
Dealerships can order trucks from RAM's factory. The wait time varies — typically four to eight weeks depending on the model and current production schedules. Your dealer can tell you the expected delivery date when you place the order. You can also ask the dealer to search their regional network to see if another dealer has your configuration in stock.
Does the price change if I configure the same truck at different times?
Prices can change when RAM updates their model year or makes mid-year adjustments, but they do not change day to day. If you configure a truck today and check again in a few weeks, the price may be slightly different if RAM has announced new pricing. Check the tool again before you go to the dealership to make sure you have the current price.
Can I use the build and price tool on my phone?
Yes. RAM's website is mobile-friendly, so you can use the build and price tool on a smartphone or tablet. The experience is similar to using it on a computer, though you may find it easier to read and compare options on a larger screen.