Some states like here in Washington you buy tonnage in 2000 lb increments on ALL trucks. Be it a midget Toyota or a Kenworth.
Your legal to paid for tonnage.
My new to me 1500, sons 1500 and other sons Toyota Tacoma are licensed to 8000 lbs. We can get pulled over tomorrow above our door sticker up to 8000 and have no issues. My Navistar is licensed to 26000, I've been pulled over multiple times in the 22-26k relm, no issues, even tho door sticker is 18200. I ce at 27xxx. No over wieght ticket, given a 10 day up registration to 28000. A $15 payment.
Check how Virginia licences trucks. You may be able to buy a 16k plate registration, you just gained another legal ton of payload!
Marty