While dolly towing can be a quicker and less expensive option for towing your vehicle, flatbed towing may often be the smarter choice. Dolly towing refers to the simple hook and lift method where the front two wheels are slightly raised on a platform to pull the vehicle on its rear wheels. Flatbed towing, on the other hand, is done with a specialized truck that lowers a ramp onto the ground to lift the entire car, allowing the vehicle to remain off the ground during transportation.

Choosing a flatbed towing vehicle is the best option if your car:

• Is Heavy: Standard economy, compact cars tend to be small enough for a dolly to support. However, if your vehicle exceeds the standard towing capacity of 2900lbs., call for a flatbed, as it can comfortably hold big trucks, SUVs, vans, and other large cars.
• Is Traveling More Than Five Miles: If your vehicle’s next destination is more than a few miles away—or has to go over a highway—a dolly lift can subject it to all kinds of damage. High up from the ground, flatbeds can keep your vehicle safe from damage caused by uneven roads and other obstacles.
• Has All-Wheel Drive: When a car is towed with the drive wheels on the ground, the transmission can face severe damage. While vehicles with front- or rear-wheel drive can be safe on a dolly, those with all- or four-wheel drive are only secure when all tires are off the ground, as with a flatbed tow truck.
• Is Low to the Ground: If your automobile has a low clearance undercarriage, the possibility of damage to the underside increases with regular towing. To keep the undercarriage intact, opt for flatbed towing. Similarly, you should choose a flatbed when towing expensive or rare vehicles, as they could sustain costly damage when they are hauled over the pavement.
• Has Been in an Accident: If your vehicle has already been damaged in an accident—especially if it will need advanced car repair—using a dolly tow truck could only complicate matters. To limit further issues, opt for flatbed towing.

If you're unsure which option is best, flatbed towing is the safest choice in most situations. Offering emergency towing in La Crosse and Baraboo, Wisconsin, Craig’s Towing & Repair explains that knowing the difference can help protect your car from unnecessary damage. To request their fast and reliable tow service, call (608) 784-1638 (La Crosse) or (608) 356-7400 (Baraboo).