If you currently only run light-duty tow trucks, then you might be looking to upgrade your fleet. Adding a higher-capacity truck has some benefits. While you might be looking at heavy-duty trucks, it might make more sense to go with a medium-duty model first. Why?

Access More Work

Tow trucks have load classifications. Their classification dictates the vehicles that the truck can tow. Typically, this work on a weight-load basis.

If your current tow trucks are light-duty models, you can't tow a vehicle that exceeds the weight limit of your trucks. Typically, your jobs will be limited to regular cars and trucks. You might not be able to tow heavier or commercial vehicles.

You could miss out on some jobs if all the trucks in your fleet have a low light-duty limit. These jobs will go to competitive companies.

If you buy or lease a medium-duty tow truck, then you can take on heavier tows. You'll have access to more jobs. Your turnover should increase.

Plus, you can also use a medium-duty truck for lighter loads. So, your new truck won't sit around waiting for heavier vehicles. You can still use it for everyday jobs.

In some cases, tow truck companies also add a medium-duty vehicle to their fleet to boost their services. Many light-duty trucks work on a dolly loading mechanism; however, most medium-duty trucks load vehicles onto flatbeds.

Adding a flatbed truck to your fleet allows you to take on different jobs. For example, you might not currently be able to tow light vehicles for long distances on a dolly tow. You could do this if you had a flatbed.

Take a Step Toward Heavy-Duty Towing

If your ultimate aim is to offer heavy-duty towing services, then a medium-duty vehicle is probably your next best move. It gives you a bridge between your current operations and your future plans.

Towing certification requirements vary from state to state; however, if you do need certification in your state, then you can't necessarily switch up to operating heavy-duty tow trucks at this stage. Some states require tow truck drivers to get certification and experience in a medium-duty class truck before they can move on to using heavier trucks.

If this applies to you, then a medium-duty truck can help you move forward in the future. You'll get more of the on-the-road experience you need to start the heavy-duty classification process.

To find out more, contact a supplier and talk to them about their medium-duty towing vehicles.