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Whether your car has broken down, youu2019ve been in an accident, or youu2019re dealing with a heavy-duty vehicle situation, knowing the right type of tow truck can save you time, money, and hassle. Not all tow trucks are created equal u2014 different types are designed for specific jobs. Hereu2019s a breakdown of the main types of tow trucks and when to use each one.<br><br>Read more: https://ottawatowtruck.com/types-of-tow-trucks-and-when-you-need-each-one/
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Types of Tow Trucks and When You Need Each One Whether your car has broken down, you’ve been in an accident, or you’re dealing with a heavy-duty vehicle situation, knowing the right type of tow truck can save you time, money, and hassle. Not all tow trucks are created equal —different types are designed for specific jobs. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of tow trucks and when to use each one. 1. Flatbed Tow Truck (Rollback) What It Is: A flatbed tow truck has a long, flat platform that can be hydraulically inclined and moved to ground level, allowing vehicles to be driven or pulled onto it. When to Use: After an accident (to prevent further damage) Towing luxury, exotic, or low-clearance vehicles Transporting motorcycles or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles Long-distance vehicle transport Why It’s Useful: Flatbeds are considered the safestmethod of towing because all four wheels are off the ground. There’s no risk of wear and tear during the tow.
2. Wheel-Lift Tow Truck What It Is: This tow truck uses a metal yoke that fits under the front or rear wheels. The other end of the vehicle stays on the ground during the tow. When to Use: Short-distance towing Light to medium-duty vehicles Quick roadside tows (e.g., parking violations or breakdowns) Why It’s Useful: Wheel-lift trucks are faster and cheaper than flatbeds, making them ideal for short hauls and emergencies— especially in tight city spaces. 3. Hook and Chain Tow Truck What It Is: A traditional tow truck that uses chains to hook around the frame or axle of the vehicle, lifting one end while the other stays on the ground. When to Use: Towing junk cars or vehicles headed to the scrapyard Hauling wrecked vehicles that can’t be damaged further Why It’s Useful: Although largely outdated for standard towing, it’s still effective forheavily damaged or non-operable vehicles. Not suitable for AWD or delicate cars. 4. Integrated Tow Truck (Self-Loader) What It Is: Also known as a “repo truck,” this type has the boom and wheel-lift combined into one unit, allowing the driver to operate it from inside the cab. When to Use: Vehicle repossessions Quick removals in tight areas Towing from parking lots or narrow spaces
Why It’s Useful: Fast, efficient, and discreet. These trucks are built for speedy, single-operator use, especially where time or safety is a concern. 5. Boom Tow Truck What It Is: Equipped with a hydraulic arm (or boom), this truck can lift vehicles from ditches or hard-to-reach spots. When to Use: Vehicle recovery after off-road accidents Towing from steep or muddy terrain Large vehicle recoveries (e.g., buses, RVs) Why It’s Useful: Boom trucks are lifesaversfor complex recoveries where standard tow trucks can’t reach. The boom offers powerful lifting capabilities. Bonus: Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks What It Is: These trucks are specially designed to tow buses, semi-trucks, RVs, and heavy construction equipment. When to Use: Towing or recovering big rigs Pulling heavy equipment out of ditches or breakdowns Moving multiple vehicles at once Why It’s Useful: If you’re dealing with something massive, you’ll need aheavy-duty tow truck with serious torque, lifting arms, and stabilizers. Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tow Truck The best tow truck for your situation depends on: Your vehicle type The condition of the vehicle The distance it needs to be towed The terrain or environment
When calling a towing service, give them accurate information — make, model, issue, and location — so they can send the right truck and crew. Why Choose Ottawa Tow Truck? 24/7 Emergency Service Wide Fleet of Modern Tow Trucks Expert Operators Trained for All Vehicle Types Fast Response Anywhere in Ottawa Affordable, Transparent Pricing Final Thoughts Next time you’re stuck and searching “Towing Near Me,” remember—it’s not just about finding a tow truck, it’s about finding theright one. Need help now? Call Ottawa Tow Truck at (613) 869-8869 We’re ready to dispatch the perfect tow truck for your vehicle—anytime, anywhere in Ottawa.