Tow Truck Types Explained

The Right Tool for Every Job

No day on the road is the same. As a towing company, we face many different scenarios every day. Whether it’s helping a stranded driver on a busy highway or recovering a vehicle from a tight parking garage. We need to make sure we bring the right tools for the job before we dispatch to deliver our I-35 towing service. Today, we want to talk about some of the tow truck types we use. Every operator is trained to know how to use each type and when one is better suited to help our clients than the other.

I-35 towing service

Flatbed Tow Trucks: Versatility on Wheels

Flatbed tow trucks are among the most common types on the road, and for good reason. These trucks have a long, flat platform at the back where vehicles are securely loaded and transported. The bed can be hydraulically inclined and moved to ground level. This makes it easy to drive a vehicle onto the platform or to winch it up if it’s not drivable. Its design ensures that the entire vehicle is lifted off the road. Which is especially important for preventing further damage during transport.

When to Use a Flatbed Tow Truck

  • Transporting high-end, exotic cars to avoid damage: Flatbeds are the safest option for luxury vehicles. The car is fully lifted off the ground, reducing the risk of scratches, dings, or other damage during transport.
  • Towing heavily damaged vehicles that can’t be driven: If your vehicle is too damaged to roll or has a broken axle, the flatbed ensures it can be transported without additional strain or damage.

The flatbed is a versatile option. We use it for everything from motorcycles to small trucks. If your vehicle can’t be driven or has low ground clearance, the flatbed is the right choice for our I-35 towing service. It’s also the preferred method for transporting long distances, as it keeps the vehicle fully off the road.

Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks: The Quick Response Team

Wheel-lift tow trucks are a more modern version of the traditional hook-and-chain tow trucks. Instead of hooking onto the bumper, these trucks use a metal yoke that lifts the vehicle by its tires. This design is much gentler on the vehicle’s frame, reducing the risk of damage. But it still allows for a quick and efficient tow.

Ideal Scenarios for Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks

  • Moving cars from tight spaces or parking garages: The compact design of wheel-lift trucks allows them to maneuver into narrow spots where larger tow trucks can’t fit. That makes them ideal for urban environments or congested areas.
  • Towing short distances: For quick, local tows, such as moving a car off the highway or transporting it to a nearby shop, wheel-lift tow trucks are fast and effective.

These trucks are quicker to hook up, making them perfect for when you need a fast I-35 towing service. However, they are not recommended for all-wheel or four-wheel-drive vehicles, as lifting by the wheels can cause strain on the drivetrain. For most cars, though, they work great, especially for short hauls or in scenarios where space is limited.

I-35 flatbed towing

Southside Wrecker: Your Premier I-35 Towing Service

We hope this helps shed some light on the different types of tow trucks and when they’re used. Whether it’s a flatbed, wheel-lift, or truck, knowing the right one can make a big difference in your experience. The next time you need an I-35 towing service, you can feel confident that we’ll send the right truck for the job. Our I-35 towing service will handle a variety of situations, ensuring your vehicle is in good hands. So, when you’re in a tough spot, give us a call. We’re always ready to provide the I-35 towing service you need with the right tools and expertise to get you back on the road.

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