The Best Way to Get Your Car Rolling
When you call for a tow, you might not think about how your vehicle will be transported. But the method used can make a big difference. Towing companies typically choose between a flatbed and a wheel-lift tow truck depending on the type of vehicle and the situation. Our Laurel flatbed towing service is one option, but we have others in our toolbox. Today, we want to describe the difference between a flatbed and a wheel-lift tow, to help you understand why and when we choose each method.
What is Flatbed Towing?
Flatbed towing involves loading the entire vehicle onto a large flat surface, or bed, of a tow truck. The car or truck is pulled onto the flatbed using a winch, and all four wheels are off the ground during transport. This method is often considered the safest option since the vehicle doesn’t make contact with the road.
When do we choose flatbed towing?
- When the vehicle has significant damage, especially to its wheels, axles, or undercarriage, making it unsafe to be towed on two wheels.
- For vehicles with all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Towing them on just two wheels can cause serious mechanical damage to the drivetrain.
- Luxury or specialty vehicles, where extra care is needed to avoid scratches, wear, or other damage.
- Long-distance tows, where keeping the vehicle off the ground is crucial to avoid debris, potholes, or road damage.
Our Laurel flatbed towing service ensures that vehicles are securely transported without putting unnecessary stress on their parts. The entire vehicle is lifted onto the flatbed, making it ideal for delicate or non-operational cars.
What is Wheel-Lift Towing?
Wheel-lift towing uses a metal yoke that fits under either the front or rear wheels, lifting one end of the vehicle off the ground. The other two wheels remain on the road during the tow. This method is quicker to set up and is often used in situations where time is critical.
When do we use wheel-lift towing?
- For short-distance tows, such as when your car breaks down a few miles from a repair shop.
- In tight urban spaces where maneuverability is important. The smaller setup of wheel-lift towing allows the tow truck to fit in narrow or confined areas.
- When a vehicle needs to be moved quickly, such as clearing a disabled car from a busy highway or accident scene.
While wheel-lift towing is versatile and efficient, it’s not always the best option for every vehicle. If a car has all-wheel drive, towing it with two wheels on the road can damage the drivetrain. Similarly, cars with suspension damage might suffer further issues if lifted unevenly. In such cases, our Laurel flatbed towing service is the better option.
Past & Present Towing & Recovery: For Laurel Flatbed Towing and Beyond
At Past & Present Towing & Recovery, we carefully assess each situation to choose the best method for your vehicle’s needs. Whether it’s a quick wheel-lift tow across town or a long-distance Laurel flatbed towing job, we’re ready to help you get back on the road. Trust that our team knows in which situations Laurel flatbed towing makes more sense, and when to choose a quick wheel-lift. When you need professional and reliable towing, Laurel flatbed towing or beyond, give us a call!
