When your car breaks down or is involved in an accident, it is important to choose the correct towing technique. Having reliable towing services is important since an estimated 55,000 cars are pulled every day in the United States.
When hiring towing and flatbed service, several options are available. Two common choices are tow dollies and flatbed towing. Both have benefits and drawbacks; understanding these will help you choose the one best suited to your situation.
Towing
Tow trucks hoist vehicles by connecting them to their tow bars. It can be done by raising one set of wheels off the ground or by keeping all four wheels firmly planted on the ground. This is a typical approach to utilize for shorter trips or when the car is stuck due to minor problems.
Advantages of Towing
A vehicle may be towed when your car breaks down or is illegally parked, and there are a number of advantages to this method:
- Cheap: Savings on operating and equipment expenses make towing a more economical option than flatbed towing.
- Efficiency and Ease: Conventional towing is fast and easy to use for short distances and small car problems.
- Availability: It is simpler to locate a tow truck in an emergency since they are more readily accessible.
Disadvantages of Towing
Nevertheless, there are a few downsides to towing:
- Damage: Rigging up a tow with the wheels off the ground increases the risk of damage, particularly for vehicles with gearbox or drivetrain problems.
- Not for all: Towing low-clearance or expensive automobiles the old-fashioned way increases the likelihood of damage.
- Only for Short Distance: Transporting vehicles large distances via traditional towing methods is risky owing to the increased likelihood of vehicle damage over long distances. Therefore, this method is best reserved for shorter distances.
Read more: Why Do You Need Towing Services?
Flatbed Towing
Flatbed towing is another common option under the towing & flatbed service category. This tow truck uses a movable, inclined platform to get to the ground. Because of this, the vehicle can drive right onto the platform. If the automobile becomes undrivable, you can use a winch system.
After being placed on the platform, the vehicle will be fastened to it using chains and straps. This is the best option when transporting heavy goods over long distances or using a four-wheel drive vehicle. It is also the best tow truck for damaged cars.
Advantages of Flatbed Towing
This tow truck is less likely to damage the vehicle further, making it a popular choice. Since none of the four wheels make contact with the pavement, the gearbox is also unaffected. Some other advantages include:
- Safer option: Flatbed towing is a safer and more adaptable alternative for hauling automobiles. The technique spares the towed vehicle’s powertrain and body from harm, making it ideal for high-end or luxury automobiles.
- Versatile: A flatbed tow truck’s versatility makes it suitable for any kind of vehicle, whether it has front-, rear-, all-wheel, or four-wheel drive.
- Less possibility of damage: Since the pulled vehicle does not touch the ground, it is less likely to be involved in accidents while towing on a flatbed.
Disadvantages of Flatbed Towing
Like any other, there are some drawbacks of flatbed towing:
- Price: Flatbed towing’s biggest negative is its high price tag. Towing costs are often higher for flatbed tow vehicles because of the greater operating and maintenance costs.
- Not for smaller spaces: Flatbed hauling is less maneuverable in confined or crowded situations due to the increased space it demands.
Tips for a Risk-Free Towing
If you want your towing & flatbed service experience to be safe and secure, follow these tips
- It is important to ensure that the towing business you choose has the necessary licenses and insurance to safeguard both you and your car.
- To make sure the tow goes well, get everything out of your car and hand over the keys to the operator.
- Discuss your vehicle’s condition and any specific needs with the tow truck operator to ensure the operator uses the right technique.
- Check your car carefully for any damage that may have happened during the towing procedure after it is delivered.
Make an Informed Choice!
When choosing a towing & flatbed service, make sure to consider all the pros and cons. Flatbed towing offers a safer and more adaptable alternative for towing a variety of cars, while tow dollies are more economical for short-distance tows.
In the end, you need to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option to make a well-informed choice and make sure your car is transported safely. No matter what kind of towing service you need, it is critical to find a reliable provider, such as Edison Towing & Flatbed Service.
Whenever you need a tow in Edison, don’t hesitate to give us a call! Any time you need help, give us a call and we’ll be right there to get you back on the road safely.
