Flatbed towing is a method of transporting vehicles where the entire vehicle is placed on a flat, horizontal bed of a tow truck. This is in contrast to other towing methods where only part of the vehicle is lifted off the ground, such as with hook and chain or wheel-lift towing.
Key Features of Flatbed Towing:
- Full Vehicle Support: The vehicle being towed is completely lifted onto the flatbed, preventing any of its wheels from touching the ground during transport. This reduces the risk of damage, especially for all-wheel-drive or low-clearance vehicles.
- Versatility: Flatbed towing is suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including luxury cars, motorcycles, heavy-duty trucks, and even small boats.
- Safety: Because the vehicle is fully secured on the flatbed, there’s less risk of further damage during towing. This method is particularly recommended for vehicles that are immobile or severely damaged.
- Ease of Loading/Unloading: Many flatbed tow trucks are equipped with hydraulic systems that tilt the bed to the ground, allowing vehicles to be driven or winched onto the bed easily.
- Long-Distance Towing: Flatbed towing is often preferred for long-distance transport because it ensures that the vehicle remains stationary and stable throughout the journey.
When to Use Flatbed Towing:
- All-Wheel Drive Vehicles: These vehicles can be damaged if towed using traditional methods that involve lifting only one set of wheels.
- Luxury and Classic Cars: To avoid any risk of damage, flatbed towing is often the method of choice for high-value vehicles.
- Accident or Inoperable Vehicles: If a vehicle has been in an accident or is otherwise inoperable, flatbed towing is often the safest way to transport it.
Overall, flatbed towing is a reliable and safe method of vehicle transport, especially when dealing with high-value or delicate vehicles.