Flatbed vs. Wheel-LiftTowing: Which One Do You Need?

Understanding Your Towing Options

When we get a call, most drivers are looking for quick help without much thought about the kind of tow truck that’s on the way. Once we arrive—flatbed or wheel-lift in tow—the questions start. People want to know what the difference is and which one is better. Some assume that Ball Ground flatbed towing the best choice no matter what. But that assumption doesn’t always hold up. The right towing method depends on the vehicle’s type, its condition and situation, not appearances.

How Flatbed Towing Works

Flatbed towing is exactly what it sounds like. We load your vehicle onto the back of a flat platform, then secure it in place for transport. No part of your car touches the ground during the process. It’s one of the cleanest and safest ways to move a vehicle, and it’s especially useful in specific situations.

Flatbeds are the right choice if:

• Your car has all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
• The vehicle has low ground clearance.
• Your vehicle is electric.
• You’ve been in an accident and the car is severely damaged.
• You’re transporting a classic, luxury, or specialty vehicle and want to avoid tire wear.

We often recommend Ball Ground flatbed towing for vehicles that need extra protection or when mechanical issues make rolling the car a bad idea. Since the entire car is lifted off the road, there’s less strain on the drivetrain, tires, and suspension.

What About Wheel-Lift Towing?

Wheel-lift towing is more compact and usually quicker. We lift one end of your vehicle—either the front or rear wheels—while the other two remain on the road. A metal yoke slides under the tires to secure them. This method is ideal for short distances and lighter vehicles.

We use wheel-lift towing when:

• The car is parked in a tight spot.
• You’re dealing with a simple mechanical failure.
• The vehicle is front- or rear-wheel drive and in otherwise decent shape.

It’s worth noting that while wheel-lift towing is faster and sometimes more affordable, it’s not suited for every situation. Cars with low ground clearance or extensive damage can suffer if towed this way. We always evaluate the vehicle before choosing the method, because not every breakdown calls for Ball Ground flatbed towing. Even if it might seem like the safer bet.

Deciding Which Tow You Need

So how do we choose? It all comes down to the condition of your vehicle and where it’s located. If your car is sitting in a flat lot, a wheel-lift might be perfect. But if it’s buried in a ditch or severely damaged, then flatbed it is. We also think about what kind of vehicle we’re handling. Some newer models have sensitive drivetrains that don’t respond well to partial lifts.

Here are a few questions we ask before sending out a truck:

• Is your vehicle front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive?
• Are there any visible leaks or broken axles?
• How far does the vehicle need to be towed?
• Is it parked on private property, a parking garage, or an open road?

Answering those helps us decide whether Ball Ground flatbed towing or wheel-lift towing fits the situation best.

Ball Ground Flatbed Towing: Patriot Towing Get’s Your Vehicle Moving! 

Using the wrong towing method can lead to further damage. And a bigger repair bill. That’s why we take the time to evaluate if you need Ball Ground flatbed towing or the wheel-lift before hooking up your car. We’ve seen what can happen when people try to cut corners or guess their way through a towing job. It’s not worth it.

At Patriot Towing, we take pride in knowing which tools and methods are best for each situation. Ball Ground flatbed towing is a fantastic option, but it’s not the only one in our toolbox. Choosing the right tow means protecting your vehicle, your wallet, and your time. So next time you’re in a jam, don’t stress about the truck we bring. Trust that Patriot Towing shows up with the one your vehicle actually needs.