When your commercial vehicle breaks down or you’re involved in an accident, you may need to call a tow truck. But did you know that there are different types of tow trucks? A light-duty and a heavy-duty tow truck perform different functions, so it’s important to understand the difference between the two.
Let’s take a look at a few differences below:
What is light-duty towing?
Light-duty towing typically refers to the transporting of vehicles that weigh less than 10,000 pounds. These vehicles can include sedans, pickup trucks, and motorcycles. In most cases, light-duty towing is performed using a flatbed truck. The vehicle is driven onto the flatbed and then secured in place. This type of towing is relatively simple and does not require the use of special equipment. As a result, it is often used for short distances and small vehicles.
What is heavy-duty towing?
Heavy-duty towing is a type of towing that requires special equipment and training. Heavy-duty tow trucks are designed to handle hefty loads, and they must be operated by certified professionals. Typically, heavy-duty towing is used for vehicles that are too large or too heavy to be towed using a standard tow truck. Some vehicles requiring heavy-duty towing include semi-trucks, buses, and construction equipment. In addition to having the right equipment, heavy-duty tow truck operators must also be properly trained in order to safely and effectively tow these types of vehicles.
What is the difference between light-duty and heavy-duty towing?
Several factors differentiate light-duty and heavy-duty tows, including the weight of the vehicle being towed, the length of the tow truck, the maneuverability of the tow truck, and the cost of operation. If you’re unsure which type of tow truck you need, it is best to consult a professional. Let us consider a few of these differences:
Weight capacity
Light-duty tow trucks can typically tow vehicles that weigh up to approximately 12,000 pounds. This is a class of cars where you’ll find your average sedans, crossovers, and pick-up trucks. Meanwhile, heavy-duty trucks can handle vehicles that weigh more than 26,000 pounds. This class of vehicles is where you’ll find large buses, semi-trucks, and other commercial vehicles.
Length of the tow truck
Light-duty trucks are typically shorter than heavy-duty trucks. This makes them more maneuverable, but it also means that they can’t tow as much weight. Heavy-duty trucks are typically longer than lightweight trucks. This gives them more stability and power.
Degree of difficulty
Light-duty tow trucks are more maneuverable than heavy-duty towing. This is because they are shorter and lighter. They are able to navigate tight spaces and make sharp turns. Heavy-duty tow trucks are less maneuverable than light-duty tow trucks. This is because they are longer and heavier. They are not able to navigate tight spaces and make sharp turns as easily.
Cost of operation
Light-duty towing typically costs less than heavy-duty tow towing. This is because the vehicles used are smaller and use less fuel. This is because heavy-duty towing involves heavy and complicated tows that require highly skilled drivers with special training.
Towing distance
Light-duty towing services can typically tow vehicles for shorter distances than heavy-duty trucks. This is because they are not as powerful and cannot handle the weight of heavier vehicles. A heavy-duty tow truck will typically tow vehicles for longer distances than light-duty tow trucks. They are used to transport vehicles over long distances, such as from one state to another.
Light-duty or heavy-duty towing services: which is right for me?
The type of towing you need will depend on the weight and size of the vehicle you need to tow, as well as the distance you need to travel. Overall, light-duty towing involves smaller cars like sedans and crossovers, while heavy-duty towing is for larger vehicles like buses and semi-trucks, and other larger commercial vehicles. If you’re not sure which type of tow truck you need, it is best to consult with a professional. They will be able to assess your needs and recommend the best option for you.
Your Trusted Commercial Heavy-Duty Towing Professionals in Sandusky!
At Ed’s 24-Hour Service, we understand that car troubles never happen at a convenient time. That’s why we maintain a dedicated dispatch staff to ensure that we immediately answer Sandusky’s emergency needs at any time of day or night. Our large fleet of tow trucks allows us to arrive at any customer’s area within 30 minutes after a service request. And our tow trucks are equipped with a 75-ton rotator that easily moves any large load from a wreck or stuck position. So you can always count on our experienced technicians to get you out of a pinch. We also conduct roadside assistance for commercial vehicles. So whether you need a quick tow, maintenance, or repair, we’ll have you back on the road quickly and stress-free.
Our services include the following:
- Heavy-Duty Towing/Commercial Towing Services
- Emergency Towing Services
- Comprehensive Roadside Services:
- Tire repair and replacement
- Fuel delivery
- Repair shop services
- Specialized transportation (from construction vehicles to large pieces of commercial equipment)
- And more!
Call us today! We look forward to serving you.
Want to learn more about Ed’s 24 Hour Service? Check out our “About Us” page!