Heavy-duty and lightweight trucks are used to describe the trucks that tow vehicles. These terms also refer to the services provided by towing companies.

Towing companies are licensed to operate tow trucks. They can also assist motorists who need their vehicle hauled, moved, stored, transported, or transferred to a particular location. There are many reasons they are called upon to respond. Examples include:

• A car stuck in the middle of a snowstorm
• A vehicle with a broken axle
• A sedan involved in an accident

However, emergency towing services can be a blessing for motorists, regardless of the reason.

You should be familiar with the main types of towing, heavy-duty and light-duty. These terms refer to the trucks that tow vehicles. It is essential to understand the differences between each tow truck to hire the best one for your needs. The safety of your load and service quality could be affected if you choose the wrong type. You may also endanger your vehicle, which can lead to additional expenses.

Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks

Heavy-duty tow trucks can be used for heavy-weight vehicles. These tow trucks can weigh up to 26,000 lbs. They are excellent for large cars like shipping containers, semi-trailers, and garbage trucks.

Tow trucks must meet several requirements. First, they must be capable of lifting heavy vehicles. A 6-ton wheel lift, a 25-ton boom lift, and a winch are essential for heavy-duty tow trucks.

They should also be able to carry an entire vehicle. The tow trucks must have more robust frames and be able to haul larger vehicles. Expect heavy-duty tow trucks to be powerful and have lots of torque.

On the other hand, wreckers are heavy-duty tow trucks designed for large vehicles damaged in an accident.

Light-Duty Tow Trucks

For roadside assistance, routine services like flat tires, engine stalls, jumpstarts, and engine stalls, light-duty tow trucks can be used. Modern wheel systems are used to prevent contact between the car and tow truck. First, the wheel system lifts the vehicle, either the front or back wheels, off the road. Then, while the vehicle is being towed and transported, the remaining wheels can remain on the ground.

Dolly towing is a method that allows light-duty trucks to be towable. This involves attaching an additional dolly that acts as an extension to the car.

The average weight of light-duty tow trucks is between 8,600 and 10,000 lbs. To facilitate efficient towing, they use a winch and a cable system.

Light-duty tow trucks can safely and comfortably haul or remove vehicles such as: 

• city-driving cars and vans
• minivans
• pickup trucks
• small trailers
• motorcycles

Conclusion

Light-duty and heavy-duty tow trucks have distinctive characteristics that distinguish them from each other. Each type of tow truck has its requirements for lifting and towing equipment. You can’t decide which type of towing equipment is best for your vehicle unless you have extensive industry experience. A good reputation, the right equipment, and a valid towing license are all crucial factors to consider when choosing roadside assistance or towing services. If you want a hassle-free move, Framingham towing services are available.