When you call a towing service, you can request a specific type of towing truck. However, most motorists don't know the different types of towing trucks available for them. Thus, they often ask for the wrong kind of towing truck. 

Knowing the type of towing truck to ask for can help you save time and money. Here are three common types of towing trucks and their capabilities.

1. Flatbed Tow Trucks

Flatbed tow trucks have a flat-top rear bed designed for carrying vehicles. The flatbed also has a hydraulic system that enables the tow truck operator to lower the bed for easy loading. Hence, when loading a vehicle, the tow truck operator lowers the bed to the ground level, and a motorist drives their car onto the bed. But if the vehicle is inoperable, flatbed tow trucks have a winch and chains that can help the tow truck operator load your car onto the bed.  Once your car is on the bed, the tow truck operator secures your vehicle to the flatbed to ensure it doesn't roll backward while driving. 

Flatbed tow trucks are usually the best at towing vehicles safely because they do not drag your car along the road. However, hiring a flatbed tow truck costs more than hiring other types of tow trucks. 

2. Chain and Hook Tow Trucks

Chain and hook trucks are often the most common and oldest towing trucks used today. These trucks include a heavy-duty chain attached to a large hook. Thus, the tow truck operator attaches the hook to your car's trailer hitch or towing mounts located underneath the bumper. Afterward, the operator reels back the chain to slightly lift the one end of your vehicle off the ground. Thus, your car will roll along the two wheels depending on where the operator attached the hooks. 

But, if you opt for hook and chain tow trucks, make sure you disconnect your car's driveshaft. If you don't disconnect the driveshaft, there is a chance that your vehicle could incur damages to the rear differential while towing. 

3. Wheel Lift Tow Trucks

Wheel lift trucks are an advanced version of chain and hook tow trucks. However, wheel lift trucks come equipped with a yoke.  To tow the vehicle, the tow truck operator inserts the yoke under one set of wheels (front or back). Afterward, the operator uses a hydraulic lift or pneumatic hoist to enable the metal yoke to lift one end of the car. Thus, a wheel lift truck also drags your car on one set of wheels. But, because no tugging is involved, a wheel lift exerts less stress on your vehicle than a hook and chain tow truck. Hence, there are fewer chances of your car incurring damages when you use a wheel lift tow truck. 

For more information, contact a local towing company. 

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