Two Common Towing Methods, Explained
When you call for a tow, you might not know there are different methods used to transport your vehicle. The two most common are flatbed towing and wheel-lift towing, and choosing the right one matters for your vehicle's safety.
What Is Wheel-Lift Towing?
Wheel-lift towing uses a hydraulic lift to raise either the front or rear wheels of a vehicle off the ground while the other set of wheels stays on the road. It's a quick, efficient method commonly used for short-distance, standard tows.
What Is Flatbed Towing?
Flatbed towing places the entire vehicle on a flat trailer bed, so none of the wheels touch the ground during transport. This method offers the highest level of protection and is often required for all-wheel drive vehicles, low-clearance cars, and long-distance tows.
When Wheel-Lift Towing Makes Sense
- Short-distance tows for standard two-wheel drive vehicles
- Quick relocations, like moving an illegally parked car
- Situations where a flatbed truck isn't readily available
When Flatbed Towing Is the Better Choice
- All-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicles
- Low ground clearance or lowered vehicles
- Non-running or severely damaged vehicles
- Longer-distance transport
Ask Your Towing Company Which Method Fits Your Situation
A reputable towing company will recommend the safest method for your specific vehicle rather than defaulting to whatever truck is closest. If you're unsure, it's always worth asking directly.
Midnight Tow operates both flatbed and wheel-lift equipped trucks, so your vehicle gets the towing method it actually needs. Call us or request a free quote to get started.