When you think of tow trucks, you probably picture a car being towed to a repair shop after a breakdown. While that’s certainly one of their primary functions, tow trucks are capable of so much more. From heavy-duty recoveries to transporting specialized equipment, these machines—and the professionals who operate them—play an integral role in solving all kinds of logistical and emergency challenges. Here are ten surprising things tow trucks can do, highlighting just how versatile they really are.
1. Heavy-Duty Recovery
When a semi-truck flips over or a dump truck ends up in a precarious position, the job requires more than just a standard tow truck. Heavy-duty rotators are equipped with rotating booms capable of lifting tens of thousands of pounds with precision. These trucks can recover vehicles from ditches, embankments, or tight urban spaces, all while minimizing further damage. The boom’s 360-degree rotation allows operators to position the truck in a safe location while extending the arm to complete the recovery, a key advantage in challenging conditions.
2. Transporting Specialized Equipment
Tow trucks, especially flatbeds, are ideal for transporting more than just vehicles. They can move forklifts, skid steers, industrial generators, and more. Flatbeds have hydraulic tilt beds that make it easy to load heavy or awkward equipment without damaging it. Additionally, tie-down systems secure loads during transit, ensuring safe delivery even on long journeys. Operators undergo specific training to handle and secure unconventional loads, making this service a valuable asset for industries with unique transport needs.
3. Extreme Weather Response
Tow trucks play a crucial role in extreme weather recovery efforts, including floods and snowstorms. They help clear roads of wrecked or abandoned vehicles, transport emergency supplies to affected areas, and recover vehicles trapped in high water or snowbanks. For example, heavy-duty trucks with winches and extended booms can pull submerged cars from rivers or flooded streets.
4. Moving Oversized Loads
Flatbed and heavy-duty tow trucks are often used to transport unconventional and oversized loads like tiny homes, shipping containers, and commercial generators. These loads require careful planning, including compliance with weight and dimension regulations and securing permits for oversize transport. Hydraulic beds and winches make it possible to load these items efficiently, while adjustable tie-down points ensure stability during transit. For oversized loads, escort vehicles may also accompany the tow truck to ensure safe passage through highways and city streets.
5. Supporting Law Enforcement and Accident Scenes
Tow trucks are essential partners for law enforcement agencies. They’re often called to remove damaged vehicles from accident scenes or transport vehicles impounded for legal reasons. Heavy-duty trucks are especially useful for clearing large commercial vehicles after serious accidents.
6. Providing Mobile Crane Services
Tow trucks equipped with rotator booms can double as mobile cranes, offering a versatile and efficient solution for lifting heavy objects in construction and other projects. These trucks are particularly valuable on construction sites where space constraints or uneven terrain make traditional cranes impractical. With the ability to extend their booms over long distances and lift heavy objects and equipment, rotators often provide vital support on big projects.
7. Offering Fleet Support for Businesses
Tow trucks aren’t just for towing—they also play a key role in assisting with diesel truck and equipment repairs. Whether a vehicle breaks down on the road or needs to be transported to a repair facility, having a reliable towing partner ensures minimal downtime for your fleet.
At Assured Truck Repair, we provide both in-shop and mobile repair services for diesel trucks and heavy equipment. Our expert technicians are equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs, keeping your vehicles in peak condition.
For dependable service, visit assuredtruckrepair.com.
8. Helping in Off-Road or Remote Recoveries
Vehicles don’t always break down on paved highways. Tow trucks equipped with heavy-duty winches and all-terrain tires are designed to recover vehicles stranded in mud, sand, snow, or even shallow water. Off-road recoveries often involve creative rigging and pulley systems to navigate obstacles and minimize damage to both the vehicle and the environment. For instance, a winch system with multiple anchor points might be used to pull a vehicle up a steep embankment. These recoveries often require expert operators who understand terrain dynamics and vehicle weight distribution.
9. Transporting Luxury and Classic Vehicles
Transporting high-end and classic cars requires specialized care, and tow truck operators are up to the task. Flatbed tow trucks are the preferred choice, as they allow the vehicle to be loaded without any contact with the ground. Hydraulic systems ensure a smooth incline for low-clearance cars, while padded straps or wheel cradles prevent scratches. Operators also use custom covers or weatherproof enclosures to protect the vehicle during long-distance hauls. This service is popular among owners of antique cars, exotic supercars, and other valuable assets.
10. Assisting with Hazmat Cleanup
Tow trucks play a vital role in hazmat spill cleanup, especially during roadside accidents involving fuel spills. Proper handling is essential to prevent environmental damage and comply with regulations. That’s why choosing a towing company with a specialized hazmat division is critical.
At Assured Emergency Services, our division, Michigan Spill Response, is trained to manage spills safely and efficiently, adhering to all state and federal guidelines. From containment to proper disposal, we ensure incidents are handled professionally.
Learn more at michiganspill.com or contact us today!