When starting up a tow truck business, it is essential to understand the different types of towing and the best type of tow truck to choose for each type of tow service. In this article, we will explore the different towing types and the best truck to use for each service.
Common Types Of Towing Services
When running your business, you will likely come across these towing types frequently. It is important to know the ins and outs of each so that you can provide the best service possible to your customers.
Flatbed Tow
A flatbed tow is when the towed vehicle is placed on a flatbed trailer and transported to the destination. This is the safest type of towing as there is no contact between the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle. Flatbed towing is typically used for long-distance towing or when the vehicle needs to be transported over rough terrain. The downside to flatbed towing is that it is more expensive than other types of towing.
Hook And Chain Tow
A hook and chain tow is when the towed vehicle is attached to the towing vehicle using a chain and hook system. The chain is looped around the axle of the vehicle and attached to the towing vehicle. The hook and chain system is typically used to tow vehicles that are not running or have been in an accident.
Wheel-Lift Tow
A wheel-lift tow is when the front or rear wheels of the vehicle are lifted off the ground and the vehicle is towed using the wheels. This type of towing is typically used for short-distance towing.
Heavy-Duty Tow
A heavy-duty tow is when a large vehicle, such as a semi-truck, is towed. This type of towing is typically used for long-distance towing or when the vehicle needs to be transported over rough terrain.
Long Distance Towing
Long-distance towing is when the vehicle is towed over a long distance, such as from one state to another. This type of towing is typically done with a flatbed tow truck.
Fleet Towing
Fleet towing is when a fleet of vehicles, such as cars or trucks, is towed. This type of towing is typically done with a flatbed tow truck.
Types Of Tow Trucks
Once you identify which services you would like to offer, you need to decide which type of tow truck to use. Below are common types of tow trucks and their uses.
Flatbed Tow Truck
A flatbed tow truck is a truck that has a flatbed trailer attached to it. This type of tow truck is typically used for long-distance towing or when the vehicle needs to be transported over rough terrain.
Hook And Chain Tow Truck
A hook and chain tow truck is a truck that has a chain and hook system attached to it. This type of tow truck is typically used to tow vehicles that are not running or have been in an accident.
Wheel-Lift Tow Truck
A wheel-lift tow truck is a truck that has a device attached to it that can lift the front or rear wheels of a vehicle off the ground. This type of tow truck is typically used for short-distance towing.
Heavy-Duty Tow Truck
A heavy-duty tow truck is a truck that is designed to tow large commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks. This type of tow truck is typically used for long-distance towing or when the vehicle needs to be transported over rough terrain.
Tow Dollies
A tow dolly is a device that is used to tow a vehicle with the front or rear wheels off the ground. This type of towing is typically used for short-distance towing.
Car Carriers
A car carrier is a type of trailer that is used to transport vehicles. Car carriers typically have two levels and can carry multiple vehicles. This type of towing is typically used for long-distance towing or when the vehicle needs to be transported over rough terrain.
Flatbed Trailers
A flatbed trailer is a type of trailer that you attach to your tow truck that no roof or sides. Flatbed trailers are typically used for long-distance towing or when a vehicle needs to be transported over rough terrain.
Conclusion
When choosing a tow truck for your business, it is important to consider the different types of towing that you will be doing. Each type of towing requires a different type of tow truck. By understanding the different types of towing and the best type of tow truck to use for each service, you can ensure that your business has the right equipment to handle any towing job.