Phone:
(346) 241-4548
Address:
Houston, TX 77036
When it comes to towing vehicles, having the right type of tow truck is essential for ensuring safe and efficient transport. Tow trucks come in various forms, each designed for specific towing tasks, from recovering small cars to heavy duty towing in Houston. At Simply Unbeatable Towing & Roadside, we use a range of modern tow trucks to meet our clients’ needs. Here are the four different types of tow trucks commonly used today:
1. Flatbed Tow Truck
Flatbed tow trucks are one of the most commonly used and versatile types of tow truck service. As the name suggests, they feature a long flatbed that can be hydraulically inclined to ground level, allowing vehicles to be driven or winched onto the platform for safe transport.
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Flatbed tow trucks ensure the vehicle is completely off the ground, preventing any further damage during transport.
2. Hook and Chain Tow Truck
The hook and chain tow truck is one of the oldest towing methods and is mainly used for wrecked or junked vehicles. This truck uses a hook and chain mechanism to lift the front or rear end of the vehicle off the ground while the other set of wheels remains on the road.
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However, this type of tow truck isn’t ideal for vehicles that are still operational, as the hook and chain can cause scratches or damage to the vehicle’s body or drivetrain.
3. Wheel Lift Tow Truck
A wheel lift tow truck is similar to the hook and chain truck but uses a metal yoke under the front or rear wheels to lift the vehicle off the ground. This method is less likely to cause damage than the hook and chain approach, making it a popular choice for auto towing services.
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The wheel lift tow truck is efficient and quick, making it ideal for towing small to medium-sized cars, particularly in urban environments.
4. Integrated Tow Truck (Boom Truck)
Integrated tow trucks, also known as boom trucks, are equipped with a boom and wheel-lift system. The boom allows for vehicle recovery in tough or tight spaces, such as ditches, embankments, or parking lots. These trucks are often used for tow truck heavy duty and recovery operations, including large vehicles such as buses or commercial trucks.
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The integrated system makes this type of tow truck highly versatile and essential for heavy duty and specialized towing.
Choosing the Right Tow Truck for Your Needs
Each type of tow truck has its unique advantages depending on the situation, vehicle type, and towing requirements. Whether you need to transport a damaged car, tow a luxury vehicle, or recover a truck from difficult terrain, understanding the different types of tow trucks can help you choose the best option for your specific needs.
Need cheap truck towing?
Simply Unbeatable Towing & Roadside offers a wide range of towing options, utilizing the latest tow trucks to handle all kinds of tow truck service. Call us at (346) 241-4548 to learn more or schedule a tow.