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The Different Types Of Tow Trucks And Their Purposes

There are many different types of tow trucks, each with a specific purpose. Some tow trucks are designed to move large vehicles, while others are used to remove debris from the road. Here is a look at the different types of tow trucks and their purposes.

Heavy Duty Tow Trucks

Heavy duty tow trucks are the largest type of tow truck. They are typically used to move construction equipment, farm machinery, and other large vehicles. Heavy duty tow trucks usually have a capacity of at least 20 tons.

Medium Duty Tow Trucks

Medium-duty tow trucks are smaller than heavy-duty ones, but they are still larger than light-duty tow trucks. They are typically used to move disabled buses and other medium-sized vehicles and have a capacity of between 10 and 20 tons.

Light Duty Tow Trucks

Light duty tow trucks are the smallest type of tow truck. They are typically used to move disabled cars and other small vehicles. Light duty tow trucks usually have a capacity of fewer than 10 tons.

Flatbed Tow Truck

A flatbed tow truck is a type of tow truck that is used to move disabled cars and other small vehicles. Flatbed tow trucks have a flatbed where the cars are secured in place. This is the most common type of tow truck, and it is used by most roadside assistance services. This is the type that is most suitable for towing electric vehicles.

Hook And Chain Tow Truck

This is a type of tow truck that uses a hook attached to a chain to secure and move disabled vehicles. They are not as common as flatbed tow trucks, but they are still used by some roadside assistance services. They are not usually in use because they could also damage vehicles. Usually, they are used when the cars are to be transported into the junkyard.

Wheel-Lift Tow Truck

A wheel-lift tow truck is a type of tow truck that uses a metal yoke to lift the wheels of a disabled vehicle off the ground. Wheel-lift tow trucks are less common than flatbed tow trucks, but they are still used by some roadside assistance services. Wheel-lift tow trucks are better than hook and chain tow trucks because they transport cars in a safer way.

Tow Dolly

A tow dolly is a small trailer that is used to move disabled cars. Tow dollies can also be used to move other vehicles like ATVs and motorcycles. When using such a trailer, you should know how to properly secure the vehicle so that it doesn’t get dislodged during the transport.


There are different types of tow trucks and they are used for different scenarios. Whenever you need a towing service in St. Louis and surrounding areas, call Reliable Guys Towing…

Reliable Guys Towing

Looking for a reliable towing company in the St. Louis area? Why not choose the towing team with over 20 years experience exclusively in our proud Gateway City. Fully insured, licensed and bonded in the states of Missouri and Illinois, the folks at Reliable Guys Towing pride themselves in clear communication to ensure that services, prices and quality far surpass our competition. We know our talented technicians are the best in the business, and we go that extra mile in resolving our clients issue so that they feel comfortable and assured for their Roadside Assistance needs. Whatever be your need; big or small, far or near, we're more than happy to serve you. Give us a call at (314) 325-1016 and one of our knowledgeable towing service reps will help assist getting a tow truck to you so we can quickly get you on your way.