Date Published: March 11, 2026 | Last Modified: 1 hour ago | 3 minute read | Verified by Mitchell Bazinet at Redwater Dodge

How to Factory Order a Ram 3500

Why Factory Order? Breaking the "Lot Compromise"

When you walk onto a dealership lot, you’re looking at trucks built for the average user. But if you’re a professional, you aren't average. As Mitch from Redwater Dodge highlights, finding a specialized configuration, like a High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel paired with 4.10 axle ratios, dual rear wheels, and factory-installed fifth-wheel prep, is like finding a needle in a haystack.

By factory ordering, you aren't stuck with preset packages that include features you don't need while missing the ones you do. You sit down with our experts to inspect the build from the ground up:

Trim & Colour: From the rugged Tradesman to the ultra-premium Limited.

Mechanical Specs: Select your exact axle ratio (3.73 or 4.10) for the perfect balance of fuel economy and towing grunt.

Towing Packages: Ensure your truck arrives "job-ready" with the Aisin transmission and integrated towing tech.

Real-World Timelines for 2026

A common concern is the wait time. In the current 2026 production environment, a custom Ram 3500 typically takes a few months from the time the order is subbed to the moment it hits our lot. While heavy-duty builds with high-demand components can occasionally see scheduling shifts, the "wait" is a small price to pay for a truck that is built specifically for your payload and performance requirements.

Navigating Incentives and Pricing

One of the biggest myths in the industry is that factory orders don't qualify for deals. That is 100% false. For our Canadian customers, loyalty programs and bonus cash offers frequently apply to 2500 and 3500 models.

The rule of thumb for 2026 is simple: You typically qualify for the incentives available at the time of delivery. This means if Stellantis launches a "Declaration of Deals" or a loyalty bonus when your truck arrives, you reap those rewards. Our team works to ensure you get the maximum value, even on a truck that hasn't been built yet.

The Advantage for Fleet & Business Owners

For business owners, factory ordering is a strategic move. Fleet managers use this process to ensure identical builds across their entire operation. Whether you need five or fifty trucks, factory ordering ensures every vehicle has the same gearing, the same payload capacity, and the same outfit prep. This makes maintenance more predictable and operator training seamless.

Stop compromising on "close enough." Your work is too important for a truck that almost does the job. Call us at 780-942-3629 today to start your custom build.

Additional Questions & Answers

Q1. Do I need a large deposit to start a factory order?

A1. Most factory orders require a modest, often refundable deposit to secure your production slot. This ensures your commitment while allowing us to pull the order into the system.

Q2. Can I track my truck while it's being built?

A2. Yes. Once your order is accepted by the factory, you will receive a Vehicle Order Number (VON). In 2026, Stellantis provides a digital tracking portal where you can see your truck move from "Scheduled" to "Production" to "Shipping."

Q3. What happens if my needs change while the truck is being built?

A3. While major mechanical changes (like engine choice) can't be made once the truck enters the assembly phase, we can often assist with adding dealer-installed accessories or Mopar® parts upon arrival.