When it comes to towing services, there are two distinct categories – light duty and heavy duty. The differences between the two are important for customers to understand so that they can make an informed decision when selecting a tow truck service.
Light Duty Towing is typically referred to as “local” or “city” towing. These light duty tow trucks can handle small vehicles such as passenger cars and light-duty pickups, generally weighing up to 8,000 pounds. The truck’s lifting capacity is usually between 3 and 5 tons.
Heavy Duty Towing refers to the transportation of larger vehicles or objects that require special equipment. This includes semi tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles, buses, motorhomes, box trucks, campers, flat beds and more. Heavy duty wreckers have lifting capacities ranging from 10 to 150 tons.
Light duty tow truck services are generally used for short distance towing within a city or metropolitan area. They are also ideal for roadside assistance and accident recovery. Heavy duty towing is often used for longer distance hauls, such as from one city to another. It is also used for transporting heavy equipment and machinery, recovering broken down or abandoned vehicles, and more.
Light vs Heavy-Duty Wreckers
Heavy duty wreckers, also known as rotators, are the largest and most powerful tow trucks available. They are designed to provide a wide range of capabilities for towing large vehicles such as tractor-trailers, buses, and construction equipment. Heavy duty wreckers can handle up to 80 tons or more in weight and measure up to 75 feet long. Heavy duty wreckers come with a heavy-duty winch, jib crane, and other powerful tools to assist in recovery operations. They also feature specialized equipment such as underlift booms, wheel lift systems, and air cushions for lifting and moving large vehicles. It is typical for drivers to received a heavy recovery towing certification.
Light duty wreckers are smaller tow trucks used for lighter towing jobs. They are used to tow smaller vehicles such as passenger cars and light-duty trucks. Light duty wreckers usually have a capacity of up to 10 tons and measure around 20 feet in length. Their winches are smaller in size than those on heavy-duty wreckers and they lack the powerful tools that come with their heavier counterparts. Light duty wreckers are designed to handle the lighter loads of light-duty vehicles and they can be used in a variety of settings.
Both types of wreckers have their uses, but it is important to choose the right one for the job at hand. Heavy-duty wreckers are more expensive and powerful, so they should only be used for larger jobs that require the extra strength and power. Light duty wreckers are less expensive, more versatile, and better suited to lighter vehicles and tasks.
Light vs Heavy-Duty Towing: Summary
When it comes to choosing between light vs heavy-duty wreckers, it’s important to assess your needs and determine which one is best for the job. Knowing the differences between light vs heavy-duty wreckers can help you make the right decision when it comes to selecting the right tow truck.
Selecting the right tow truck service for your needs can be a challenge – knowing the differences between light and heavy-duty towing will ensure you get the right service for the job. Be sure to ask your tow truck service provider about their lifting capacity and if they provide light or heavy-duty services. With the right service, you can rest assured that your vehicle transportation needs will be taken care of safely and efficiently.
For more information about light and heavy-duty towing, reach out to an experienced tow truck service provider. They can help you select the right type of service for your needs and ensure that your vehicle is transported safely. With the right tow truck service, you can get the job done with minimal hassle and stress.
