When you place a call to arrange for towing services, odds are good you expect one specific type of tow truck to arrive: a flatbed vehicle. However, there are actually multiple types of tow trucks roadside assistance teams may use. While not every towing service will have all of them in their fleet, it’s worth asking about to ensure you get the right vehicle for your needs.

The following are the three most common towing vehicles in use.

The 3 Different Towing Service Trucks

1. Flatbed Truck

This is the best-known variety. As the name suggests, it consists of a truck with a wide flatbed area for your vehicle to rest on. Small ramps allow the crew to drag or drive your car up onto the flatbed. Typically, this is regarded as the safest towing vehicle available. Before scheduling towing services, you may want to confirm this is the kind of truck the company will send.

2. Hook & Chain

Although they are not used nearly as frequently as they once were, these trucks are still around. They work by hooking the end of a chain to your vehicle; the other end is connected to the truck. While this does allow the driver to easily and efficiently tow your car away, if you’re traveling a far distance, it could result in scratches.

3. Wheel Lift

This is a safer variation of the hook and chain truck. The driver places a yoke from the truck beneath your car’s front axle. This lifts the wheels up off the ground, allowing for safe towing.

Need towing services in the Mountain Home, AR, area? Get in touch with Discount Towing and Recovery. For more information, contact them online or call (870) 425-1775.