Understanding the Different Types of Tow Trucks and How They Work
If you've ever needed a tow, you're probably familiar with how essential it is to have the right tow truck for the job. Tow trucks come in various types, and each one is designed to handle specific situations. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common types of tow trucks and what they’re best used for, so you know exactly which one you need in case of an emergency.
1. Flatbed Tow Trucks
Flatbed tow trucks are probably the most well-known type. They come with a large, flat platform where the vehicle is loaded and then secured. This makes them great for towing vehicles that can’t be driven due to damage or mechanical failure.
Why are they so popular? It’s because flatbed tow trucks offer a safe, secure way to transport cars. The entire vehicle is lifted onto the flatbed, meaning no part of the car touches the road. This minimizes the risk of additional damage, especially for cars with low clearance or those that are completely immobile.
2. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks
Wheel-lift tow trucks are commonly used for shorter, more local towing services. They are equipped with a mechanical arm and a yoke that grips the vehicle’s wheels, lifting the car from either the front or rear while keeping the rest of the vehicle on the ground.
This method is effective for towing light to medium-duty vehicles, and it’s a more affordable option for those who need quick, short-distance towing. However, it’s not ideal for all vehicles, especially those with low ground clearance, as the car's frame can still scrape along the pavement.
3. Integrated Tow Trucks
Integrated tow trucks are built to handle heavy-duty towing tasks, making them ideal for large vehicles such as trucks and buses. These trucks feature advanced hydraulic systems and lifting arms that provide the power needed to transport hefty vehicles safely.
While they’re great for heavy-duty tasks, integrated tow trucks have become less common in everyday towing services because of safety concerns. However, they’re still essential for specific situations, like moving construction equipment or large vehicles from accidents or breakdowns.
4. Boom Tow Trucks
Boom tow trucks are commonly used when a vehicle is in a hard-to-reach area. They have a hydraulic arm (or boom) that extends to lift a vehicle, making it easier to tow cars that are stuck in ditches, ravines, or other places where access is limited. Boom trucks can also be used for lifting vehicles with significant damage, making them versatile in certain emergency situations.
These trucks are not typically used for regular towing jobs but are essential for handling tricky situations.
5. Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks
When it comes to towing really big vehicles—think semi-trucks or large RVs—heavy-duty tow trucks are the way to go. These trucks are built for extreme towing capacity and often come with both boom and integrated lifting systems to move large, bulky vehicles.
They’re designed for long-distance hauling and are a vital part of road recovery efforts in areas with high traffic volumes, like freeways or highways.
Which Tow Truck Do You Need?
Now that you know the different types of tow trucks, you might wonder which one is right for your needs. Here's a quick rundown:
Flatbed Tow Trucks: Great for damaged or immobile cars.
Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks: Perfect for local towing of lighter vehicles.
Integrated Tow Trucks: Ideal for towing heavy-duty vehicles.
Boom Tow Trucks: Best for tough-to-reach areas and damaged vehicles.
Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks: The go-to for large vehicles like semi-trucks or buses.
Want More Towing Tips?
If you want to know more about towing services, don’t forget to check out some of our previous blogs. Here are a few you might find interesting:
Need towing services in Fresno? Call us today, and we’ll get you back on the road safely and quickly!
