You’ve probably seen both types of tow trucks out on the roads around Brisbane and people seem to have strong opinions on both. The truth is, both of these types are still so common for a reason — they have their own set of strengths and weaknesses, meaning neither one is capable of handling every type of job.
There are a host of factors to be taken into account when a tow truck is selected, that’s why we’ll always ask some qualifying questions before getting a truck on the way. For example, the condition of your vehicle, the location and dimensions all play a role in choosing which truck is best..
Let’s take a look at the two and why you might want one over the other.
Flatbed tow trucks
This is probably the type you think of when you hear ‘tow truck’. They’re a simple flat bed, as the name would suggest, that tilts and allows a vehicle to be driven or winched up and secured to the deck.
The flat bed design means these trucks can be used in most situations since it doesn’t require a vehicle to be capable of rolling.
Pros
- Useful in most situations
- Ideal for long distance towing
- Can be used for vehicles and equipment in any condition
- Have a higher weight capacity
- Allows for low vehicles to be loaded safely
- The loaded vehicle remains stationary for the trip with no moving parts
Cons
- A large vertical clearance is needed to allow the tray to tilt for loading
- Can struggle in tight spaces
- May require more time to load safely
Wheel lift tow trucks
This is the other type of tow truck you’ll often see on the roads around Brisbane. Rather than loading the whole vehicle onto the back of a truck, a hydraulic lift picks either the front or rear wheels off the ground, leaving the other two to roll along the road.
While there are some limitations to this type of tow truck, it’s generally a faster, more nimble option when you need a vehicle moved quickly.
Pros
- Often requires less time to load
- Operates better in tight spaces
- Requires minimal vertical clearance, making it perfect for underground car parks
Cons
- Requires a vehicle that can be safely moved with two wheels in contact with the road
- Both of those wheels need to be able to roll safely (no flat tyres, transmission in neutral etc)
- Not suitable for very low or heavy vehicles
- Only suitable for towing short distances
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In the end, the “best” type of tow truck depends entirely on the requirements of the job. When you’re dealing with the Rudd’s Towing team, you can be sure that all of these pros and cons (and more) have been factored into the decision. You’re getting a tow truck and driver that’s fit for the job and will make sure your vehicle is being moved safely.