The paper studies the effect of preloading on the liquefaction cyclic strength of silty sands in the free field condition. This effect first is investigated by cyclic shear tests where horizontal shear stress oscillated about a zero mean value. Samples with varying fines content and at varying pre-stress ratios, densities and vertical stresses are tested. Test results show a marked increase of the liquefaction cyclic strength with the pre-stress ratio. The effect is more pronounced for tests with less liquefaction cyclic strength without pre-stress. Using critical state soil mechanics concepts, factors simulating the effect of preloading on the liquefaction cyclic strength are identified and based on the results of the laboratory program an empirical expression is proposed predicting the increase in the liquefaction cyclic strength induced by pre-stress. This expression is validated by numerical simulation of the relevant laboratory tests using an elastoplastic multi-mechanism model. In addition, based on the derived expression, a methodology is proposed predicting the increase in liquefaction cyclic strength as a result of preloading in the field in the case of the free field condition. This methodology is validated by the comparison with field measurements on liquefaction-susceptible soils before and after the field application of preloading. Last but not least, the increase in liquefaction cyclic strength which the proposed methodology predicts for typical soil profiles and embankment preloads is predicted and discussed.