When your vehicle breaks down on Highway 1, gets stuck in a ditch in Burnaby, or stalls in downtown Vancouver traffic, a tow truck can be a lifesaver. But did you know there’s more than one kind of tow truck? The type of vehicle you drive—and the situation you’re in—determines whether a light-duty or heavy-duty tow truck is the right choice.
At TowSquad Towing, we work with towing professionals across the Lower Mainland to dispatch the right equipment quickly and efficiently. Here’s what you need to know about the two main categories of tow trucks.
???? What Is a Light-Duty Tow Truck?
Light-duty tow trucks are ideal for smaller vehicles commonly seen around Greater Vancouver and the Tri-Cities. These include:
- Passenger vehicles (compact cars, sedans, SUVs)
- Motorcycles
- Light-duty pickup trucks
- Minivans
Common uses in the Lower Mainland:
- Towing stalled cars on city streets
- Battery boosts in underground parking lots
- Flat tire changes in residential neighborhoods
- Lockout assistance on the go
Towing Equipment:
Towing Capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs (4,500 kg).
???? What Is a Heavy-Duty Tow Truck?
Heavy-duty tow trucks are built for the big jobs. If you drive a commercial truck or manage a fleet vehicle that breaks down on Highway 99 or the Port Mann Bridge, this is the equipment you’ll need.
These trucks handle:
- Tractor-trailers
- City buses
- RVs and motorhomes
- Construction machinery
Common scenarios around Vancouver & Fraser Valley:
- Recovering overturned transport trucks
- Winch-outs from industrial sites in Surrey
- Towing disabled tour buses in Stanley Park
- Hauling heavy trailers across long distances
Towing Equipment:
Heavy-duty trucks are outfitted with powerful winches, booms, and hydraulic lift systems designed to lift massive vehicles securely.
Towing Capacity: 26,000 lbs (11,800 kg) and above—some trucks can tow even more, depending on configuration.
???? Light-Duty vs. Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks: At a Glance
| Feature | Light-Duty Tow Truck | Heavy-Duty Tow Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Vehicle Type Cars, SUVs, Motorcycles | Trucks, buses, RVs, trailers |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 10,000 lbs | 26,000+ lbs |
| Equipment Used | Wheel-lift, flatbed | Heavy-duty winch, boom, reinforced axles |
| Common Uses | Roadside assistance, towing disabled cars | Recovering large vehicles, accident recovery |
4. Which Tow Truck Do You Need?
If you’re driving a personal vehicle and need assistance in Coquitlam, Richmond, or North Vancouver, a light-duty tow truck is usually enough. However, if you’re responsible for a commercial or oversized vehicle, a heavy-duty truck is essential for safety and compliance.
When you contact TowSquad Towing, our experienced dispatchers evaluate your needs and match you with the best tow operator in your area—fast, affordable, and fully equipped.
✅ Trust TowSquad Towing for Reliable Service Across the Lower Mainland
Whether you’re stranded on the Sea-to-Sky Highway or need equipment moved from Surrey to Abbotsford, TowSquad Towing connects you with certified, experienced towing professionals who have the right gear for the job.
We specialize in:
- Fast response times
- 24/7 service availability
- Transparent pricing and reliable quotes
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between light-duty and heavy-duty towing can help you make the right call during a roadside emergency. No matter the size of your vehicle, TowSquad Towing is here to help you get back on the road—quickly and safely.
