Types of Tow Trucks and When You Need Each One

1. www.ottawatowtruck.com TYPES OF TOW TRUCKS AND WHEN YOU NEED EACH ONE

2. 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. NEXT PAGE

3. 1. Flatbed Tow Truck (Rollback) • 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 safest method of towing because all four wheels are off the ground. There’s no risk of wear and tear during the tow.

4. 2. Wheel-Lift Tow Truck • 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 • Wheel-lift trucks are faster and cheaper than flatbeds, making them ideal for short hauls and emergencies — especially in tight city spaces. • Why It’s Useful:

5. 3. Hook and Chain Tow Truck • 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headed to the scrapyard • Hauling wrecked vehicles that can’t be damaged further • Why It’s Useful: • Although largely outdated for standard towing, it’s still effective for heavily damaged or non-operable vehicles. Not suitable for AWD or delicate cars.

6. 4. Integrated Tow Truck (Self-Loader) • 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.

7. 5. Boom Tow Truck • 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 lifesavers for complex recoveries where standard tow trucks can’t reach. The boom offers powerful lifting capabilities.

8. Conclusion • Next time you’re stuck and searching “Towing Near Me,” remember—it’s not just about finding a tow truck, it’s about finding the right 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.

9. THANK YOU! • (613)869-8869 www.ottawatowtruck.com