Different Types of Tow Trucks and Their Uses

Published: 10 Nov 2025

Not all tow trucks are the same. The truck that lifts a small car isn’t the one used to tow a bus or recover a heavy machine. Every tow truck has a special design and purpose. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right one when you need help on the road.
Let’s explore the main types of tow trucks, how they work, and what each is best for.

1. Flatbed or Rollback Tow Truck

A flatbed tow truck, also called a rollback, is one of the most common types you’ll see on the road. It has a long flat platform that tilts and slides backward to load a vehicle. The car is pulled or driven onto the bed and stays completely off the ground during transport.
Best for:
Cars with severe damage
Vehicles with missing tyres or low clearance
Luxury or sports cars
Why it’s useful:
Flatbeds are safe and easy to use. Because the car sits on the platform, there’s no extra wear on tyres or suspension. It’s a great choice for both short and long distances.

2. Hook and Chain Tow Truck

The hook and chain tow truck is one of the oldest types. It uses a strong metal hook and chain to pull the vehicle by its axle or frame. One end of the car is lifted off the ground while the other rolls behind the truck.
Best for:
Junk or scrap cars
Vehicles too damaged to roll
Why it’s limited:
This type can cause scratches or damage to the car’s body. It’s not used for modern cars or all-wheel drives anymore. But it’s still handy for towing wrecked or non-working vehicles to scrapyards.

3. Wheel Lift Tow Truck

A wheel lift tow truck is a newer and safer version of the hook-and-chain model. Instead of chains, it uses a metal yoke that fits under the car’s front or rear wheels. The yoke lifts the vehicle partly off the ground for towing.
Best for:
Small to medium-sized cars
Tight parking areas
Short-distance towing
Why it’s helpful:
It’s quick, affordable, and gentle on the vehicle. That makes it a popular choice for city towing or roadside breakdowns.

4. Integrated Tow Trucks

An integrated tow truck combines the power of a wheel lift and a boom. It’s built for strength, stability, and speed. These trucks come with extra axles and heavy arms to tow large vehicles like buses or trailers.
Best for:
Heavy vehicles and buses
Accident recovery
Commercial towing
Why it’s powerful:
It can lift and tow heavy loads safely. Operators can also control the lift system from inside the cab, saving time during urgent jobs.

5. Boom Truck

A boom truck has a long, adjustable arm called a boom and is used to lift vehicles from difficult spots. It’s perfect for recovery jobs in tight or rough areas.
Best for:
Vehicles stuck in ditches or slopes
Off-road recoveries
Cars that can’t be reached by flatbeds
Why it’s effective:
The boom can reach vehicles that other trucks can’t. It’s strong, flexible, and perfect for rescue operations in tricky locations.

6. Rotator Tow Truck

The rotator tow truck is the biggest and most powerful of them all. It can lift extremely heavy loads and rotate 360 degrees to reach from any angle.
Best for:
Rollovers
Highway recovery
Heavy machinery towing
Why it’s amazing:
Rotators can lift up to 70 tons or more. They’re used in serious accidents and complex recovery operations. Their rotating arm makes them one of the most advanced tow trucks available.

Conclusion

Every tow truck is built for a unique job. Flatbeds keep cars safe, wheel lifts handle quick city tows, and rotators manage the heaviest recoveries. Choosing the right truck ensures your vehicle is handled safely, efficiently, and without damage.
So next time you need help on the road, you’ll know exactly which type of tow truck to call — because in towing, one size never fits all.