Flatbed Towing 101
Let’s talk about flatbed tow trucks. They’re one of the most recognizable types of tow vehicles on the road. And for good reason. The way they work is simple: the entire vehicle gets lifted onto the flat platform of the truck, with all four wheels completely off the ground. When we talk about Detroit flatbed towing, this is the method that often comes to mind. It’s not the only option out there, but it’s certainly one of the safest for transporting a car.
The Basics: What Makes It a Flatbed?
Flatbed tow trucks are exactly what they sound like: tow trucks with a flat, level bed on the back. The bed can be hydraulically inclined and moved to ground level so that a vehicle can be either driven or pulled up onto it. Once the car is securely positioned, the bed is lifted back into a flat position and locked in place for transport.
There are a few standout features that define a flatbed tow truck:
- Hydraulic lift bed: This allows the entire back section to tilt and lower.
- Winch system: Used to pull non-functional vehicles onto the bed.
- Wheel-off-the-ground transport: Prevents wear and tear on tires and drivetrain.
When Flatbed Towing Is the Best Option
We don’t automatically reach for a flatbed tow truck in every situation. But there are several times when it’s absolutely the best choice.
Low Clearance or Luxury Vehicles
Some vehicles sit lower to the ground than others. Sports cars, performance sedans, and many luxury models can suffer damage from traditional towing methods that lift only one end of the car. With Detroit flatbed towing, the risk of scraping the undercarriage or misaligning the suspension is dramatically reduced.
All-Wheel and Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles
All-wheel drive systems are connected across all four wheels, meaning that lifting just two off the ground can cause drivetrain issues. Flatbed towing keeps all wheels off the ground, protecting the vehicle’s mechanical systems.
Non-Operational or Severely Damaged Vehicles
If a vehicle has been in an accident or has severe mechanical failure—say the axles are shot or the wheels can’t turn—then pulling it using a wheel-lift tow truck might not even be an option. A flatbed is ideal here because it doesn’t require the vehicle to roll or steer.
Long-Distance Transport
For moving a car across city or state lines, flatbed trucks offer an extra layer of protection. With Detroit flatbed towing, the vehicle isn’t subjected to road wear, tire stress, or the risk of hitting debris along the route. This is especially useful for show cars, antique vehicles, or collector pieces.
Transporting Equipment or Motorcycles
Flatbeds aren’t just for cars. We often use them to move everything from small construction machinery to motorcycles. Their wide platform and secure tie-down points make them versatile for many kinds of hauls.
Common Myths About Flatbed Towing
We’ve heard our share of Detroit flatbed towing myths over the years. Let’s clear a few up:
- “It costs way more.” Not necessarily. While flatbed towing might be a touch more expensive due to the equipment involved, it can prevent further damage that could cost much more down the line.
- “It’s only for exotic cars.” While it’s true that high-end vehicles benefit from flatbed towing, we can tow any car this way if the situation calls for it.
- “Flatbeds take longer to load.” Loading may take an extra minute or two, but it’s often the safer option. We think that’s a fair trade.
Boulevard & Trumbull Towing: We’ve Got All Your Detroit Flatbed Towing Needs Covered
At Boulevard & Trumbull, our Detroit flatbed towing team knows, that choosing the right towing method can mean the difference between a smooth ride to the repair shop and an expensive repair from towing damage. That’s why we take each call seriously and assess what type of tow your vehicle needs before we roll out.
Our experience with Detroit flatbed towing has taught us that this method is often what’s best for the vehicle. It keeps things simple, clean, and less risky. Plus, in our city’s sometimes unpredictable road conditions, having all four wheels off the ground can be a major advantage.