There are so many different Vancouver towing methods, trucks and equipment and they all have their own unique uses. While some trucks are suitable for towing a certain set of car makes and models, they may not be suitable for motorcycles and vice versa. From pickup trucks and buses to bikes and boats, vehicles come in a wide range of sizes, weights and shapes. This means that they all require a different approach.

Let’s take a look at some tow trucks and what exactly they might be used for.

Flatbed Tow Truck

Flatbed trucks are definitely the safest and convenient towing option as they keep your vehicle from making contact with the ground during transportation. They have a flatbed surface and a ramp. Your vehicle gets lifted onto the flatbed through this ramp or can also be driven up and onto the flatbed.

The benefit of this truck is that it stops your vehicle from having direct contact with the ground. Why is this necessary? During regular hook and chain towing, the vehicle gets transported by being hooked onto the truck, having direct contact with the ground. This can alter the suspension and alignment of the vehicle. With a flatbed, fragile cars, motorcycles, sports cars, vintage cars or luxury cars can safely enjoy calm and protected transportation from point A to point B. This can be especially great for tight alleys and sharp corners where a car that is completely exposed can suffer damage.

Hook & Chain

This is the oldest and most recognized tow truck. While they do a perfectly fine job of transportation, they can put quite a lot of pressure on the vehicles being towed. We tend to use these trucks much less often.

Essentially, just as the name suggests, a hook gets attached to the vehicle’s bumper or axle to tow it away and get it to its final destination.

Wheel Lift

Wheel lift tow trucks are an evolvement of the hook and chain trucks. Instead of a hook and chain, they use a metal yoke that touches just the wheels. A hydraulic or pneumatic hoist lifts the end of the vehicle where the yoke is attached. While these trucks don’t offer the same safety and protection as a flatbed, they don’t scratch or damage the bumper or axle as a hook and chain might.

Found yourself in roadside trouble with a broken-down vehicle? We offer 24/7 Vancouver towing for our communities, for vehicles of all kinds. Regardless of your needs or concerns, rest assured that your vehicle is safe with us.

Photo by Erik Mclean from Pexels