What’s The Difference Between Flatbed and Hitch Towing
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between the hitch and flatbed towing? Whether you’re a first-time car owner or an experienced driver, knowing the pros and cons of each type of towing can help you make an informed decision when it comes time to move your vehicle. In this article, we’ll provide a breakdown of both hitch and flatbed towing so that you can determine which one best suits your needs.
What is Hitch Towing Service?
There are two main types of towing: hitch towing service and flatbed towing service. Hitch towing service is the most common type of towing and is typically used for smaller vehicles, such as cars and SUVs. Flatbed towing is typically used for larger vehicles, such as trucks and RVs.
Hitch towing service involves attaching a tow bar or hitch receiver to the back of the vehicle being towed. The tow bar or hitch receiver is then connected to the tow truck via a tow rope or chain. The vehicle being towed is then pulled behind the tow truck as it drives.
Flatbed towing involves loading the vehicle onto the flatbed of the tow truck. The vehicle is secured onto the flatbed using straps, chains, or dollies. The tow truck then drives away, with the vehicle being towed on the flatbed behind it.
What is Flatbed Towing?
If you’re new to towing, you may be wondering what the difference is between hitch and flatbed towing. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right method for your needs.
Hitch towing service is the most common type of towing, and it’s typically used for shorter distances. The vehicle being towed is attached to the back of the tow truck with a hook or chain. This method is less expensive than flatbed towing, but it can be more dangerous because there’s more chance for the vehicle to come loose and cause an accident.
Flatbed towing is more expensive than hitch towing service, but it’s also much safer. The vehicle being towed is placed on a flatbed trailer, which is then hitched to the tow truck. This prevents the vehicle from coming loose and makes it easier to transport over long distances.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Towing Method
Towing a vehicle behind another vehicle is a popular way to move a car or truck from one location to another. But there are different ways to tow a vehicle, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Hitch towing is the most common type of towing. A hitch is mounted on the back of the tow vehicle, and a special trailer hitch ball is attached to the front of the vehicle being towed. The two vehicles are then connected together with a hitch bar or chain.
The main advantage of hitch towing service is that it’s relatively easy to set up and doesn’t require any special equipment. Hitch towing service is also less expensive than other methods, such as flatbed towing.
However, there are some disadvantages to hitch towing service. One is that the towed vehicle can’t be higher than the tow vehicle, so taller vehicles may need to be towed using a different method. Another disadvantage is that the weight of the towed vehicle can put stress on the tow vehicle’s suspension and brakes, which can cause problems if they’re not properly maintained.
Flatbed towing is another popular method for moving vehicles. In this case, the towed vehicle is placed on a flatbed trailer that’s pulled behind the tow truck. This method is often used for vehicles that can’t be towed using a hitch, such as tall trucks or cars with low ground clearance.
One advantage of flatbed towing is that it’s much easier on the tow vehicle since the towed vehicle isn’t putting any extra weight on it. It’s also more secure since the towed vehicle can’t roll off of the trailer.
The main disadvantage of flatbed towing is that it requires special equipment, so it’s usually more expensive than hitch towing service. It’s also slower since the tow truck needs to pick up and drop off the flatbed trailer at each location.
Finally, dolly tows are used for rear-wheel drive vehicles. In this case, the front wheels of the vehicle are placed on a small platform that’s pulled behind the tow truck. This method is often used when a car needs to be towed over long distances or through difficult terrain.
The main advantage of dolly tows is that they don’t put any extra stress on the tow vehicle or trailer, so they’re good for long trips. They’re also less expensive than flatbed towing.
However, there are some disadvantages to dolly tows as well. The biggest one is that they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking garages or narrow roads. Additionally, if not done properly, dolly tows can damage tires and suspension systems on both the towed.
The Different Types of Hitches
Most people don’t think about hitches very often, but they’re actually a vital part of towing. There are many different types of hitches, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right hitch for your needs is important, so let’s take a closer look at the different types of hitches available.
The most common type of hitch is the ball hitch. Ball hitches are simple and easy to use, and they’re compatible with most trailers. However, they’re not well-suited for heavy-duty towing, and they can be difficult to back up with.
Another popular type of hitch is the Fifth Wheel hitch. Fifth Wheel hitches are stronger than ball hitches, making them ideal for heavy-duty towing. They’re also easier to back up with, but they’re more expensive and harder to install.
Gooseneck hitches are another option for heavy-duty towing. Gooseneck hitches attach to the bed of a pickup truck, providing a more stable connection than a Fifth Wheel hitch. However, gooseneck hitches can be difficult to maneuver and require special installation.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use hitch for light-duty towing, a weight distribution hitch may be a good option. Weight distribution hitches distribute the weight of the trailer evenly over the axle of the tow vehicle, making it easier to tow lighter loads. However, weight distribution hitches are not suitable for heavy-duty towing.
The last type of hitch is the receiver hitch. Receiver hitches are the most flexible and versatile type of hitch, as they can be used for both light and heavy-duty towing. However, they require special installation and can be more expensive than other types of hitches.
No matter which type of hitch you choose, make sure you do your research and select the one that best meets your needs.
Choosing the Right Hitch for Your Vehicle
If you’re looking to tow a trailer with your vehicle, you’ll need to choose the right hitch. Depending on your vehicle and the trailer you’re looking to tow, there are different hitches available.
For example, if you’re looking to tow a small utility trailer, you’ll likely need Class I or II hitches. These types of hitches are typically used for smaller trailers weighing up to 3,500 pounds.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to tow a larger travel trailer or fifth wheel, you’ll need a Class III, IV, or V hitch. These hitches are designed for heavier trailers weighing up to 10,000 pounds.
When choosing a hitch for your vehicle, it’s important to consider the weight of the trailer you’ll be towing as well as the tongue weight. Tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the hitch by the trailer. This should be taken into account when selecting a hitch size so that your vehicle can safely and effectively tow the trailer.
How to Safely Attach a Tow Hitch
If you’re looking to tow a trailer with your vehicle, you’ll need to attach a tow hitch. This can be a tricky process, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and make sure everything is secure before starting out on your journey.
To attach a tow hitch, first, position the hitch receiver under the bumper of your vehicle. Then, insert the pin into the receiver and secure it in place with the clip. Next, slide the ball mount into the receiver and tighten it down with the nut. Finally, attach your trailer’s safety chains to the hooks on the ball mount and ensure that they’re not too tight or too loose.
Now that you know how to safely attach a tow hitch, you’re ready to hit the open road!
Choose MR Towing for your Flatbed and Hitch Towing Sertvice Needs!
MR Towing is a reliable flatbed towing company that has been providing services to the Dallas area for over 15 years. Our team is comprised of highly-trained drivers who are experienced in towing all makes and models of vehicles. We understand that not all tows are the same, so we have a variety of tow trucks and equipment available to us to accommodate your specific needs.
MR Towing Services has the Tow you Need!
MR Towing Services tows practically every type of vehicle you can think of. Our towing services include cars, SUVs, trucks, RVs, box trucks, motorcycles, and tractors. If we can tow a tractor, you best believe we can handle the towing of your car!
We’re available 24/7. Anytime you need our assistance, give us a call. We know breakdowns and car accidents don’t have hours of operation—they can happen at the most random of times. That’s why we’re always available. Drivers and passengers shouldn’t be denied service because their car broke down at a bad time. Certainly, you would agree that there is no good time for a vehicle breakdown.
Remember, MR Towing Services is just a call away! Let us get your vehicle to a safe place as quickly as possible.
If you need a tow, or a jumpstart, or maybe you need to get back into your car after you’ve locked yourself out, MR Towing Services is here to help! Call us today! 214-238-5134
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(214) 238-5134
115 Richardson Ct.
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Allen, TX 75002
Our other locations in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area:
1225 Belt Line Rd
Suite 120
Garland, TX 75040
9220 Skillman St
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Arlington, TX 76015
822 Custer St
Arlington, TX 76014