Relocating vehicles isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re towing a car behind another vehicle or hauling it on a flatbed, the method you choose can make a big difference. The distinction between towing vs. hauling is not only technical—it also impacts safety, cost, and the condition of your vehicle.
In simple terms, towing means pulling a car with its wheels on the road, while hauling keeps the vehicle completely off the ground. Both methods serve specific purposes, from short trips with a tow truck to hauling heavy-duty vehicles across long distances. This blog will clarify these methods so you can confidently choose the right one for securely transporting your vehicle.
Towing vs. Hauling: A Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Towing | Hauling |
| Definition | Pulling a vehicle with its wheels on the road. | Transporting a vehicle completely off the ground. |
| Best For | Short trips, lighter vehicles, and roadside assistance. | Long distances, heavy-duty vehicles, and luxury cars. |
| Cost | Generally more cost-effective for short distances. | Higher cost due to specialized equipment and services. |
| Vehicle Protection | Limited protection; exposed to road conditions. | Full protection, especially with enclosed carriers. |
| Vehicle Condition | Suitable for operational or lightly damaged vehicles. | Ideal for non-operational, delicate, or valuable vehicles. |
| Equipment Used | Tow bars, trailers, or wheel-lift tow trucks. | Flatbeds or enclosed trailers. |
| Wear and Tear | Increases wear on tires and suspension. | No additional wear; the vehicle is lifted entirely. |
| Distance | Suitable for local or short-distance transport. | Preferred for long-distance or interstate moves. |
| Capacity | Limited by the towing vehicle’s weight and capacity. | Handles heavier loads and oversized vehicles. |
What Is the Difference Between Towing and Hauling?
While the terms towing and hauling are often used interchangeably, they refer to different processes. Towing involves pulling a vehicle behind another. A tow truck uses a hitch or a wheel lift to attach to one end of the vehicle, leaving the wheels on the road. This method is typically used for short distances, such as when roadside assistance or emergency towing is needed.
On the other hand, hauling involves completely lifting the vehicle off the ground, typically onto a flatbed or enclosed carrier. Hauling is better suited for transporting high-value vehicles, such as luxury cars, or for long-distance moves. It’s ideal when a vehicle’s condition or size exceeds the towing vehicle’s capacity or when transporting vehicles across rough terrain.
The choice between towing and hauling often depends on distance, the vehicle’s weight, and its condition. Towing is efficient for short distances, while hauling provides better protection and is safer for long-distance moves or vehicles that require extra care.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Towing and Hauling
Distance:
- Towing is typically more cost-effective for short trips, as it uses basic equipment like a pickup truck, wheel lift tow trucks, or tilt trays to pull the vehicle.
- Hauling, on the other hand, is better for long distances. Using an auto transport method like a flatbed or enclosed carrier keeps the vehicle off the road, reducing wear and tear.
Vehicle Size and Weight:
- Light-duty vehicles may be ideal for towing if the vehicle’s gross combined vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is within the towing vehicle’s capacity.
- Hauling is better suited for oversized or heavy vehicles like trucks, shipping containers, or junk cars. Hauling trucks have much stronger platforms to support these heavier loads.
Vehicle Condition:
- If the vehicle is inoperable, towing might cause further damage, especially over rough roads. Hauling is a safer alternative for transporting damaged or non-operational vehicles.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Towing vs. Hauling
Towing
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Towing is generally cheaper for local transport and shorter distances.
- Quick and widely available: Tow truck services are available 24/7, and tow truck drivers can often reach you within minutes.
- Convenient for emergencies: Towing is perfect for emergency roadside assistance when a vehicle breaks down or needs to be relocated quickly.
Cons:
- Limited towing capacity: A standard tow truck may not be able to safely tow larger vehicles, like garbage trucks or heavy-duty equipment.
- Less secure for long-distance transport: Long trips with a vehicle towed behind another can cause wear and tear, especially on rough roads.
Hauling
Pros:
- Greater protection for the vehicle: Hauling reduces the chances of damage during transport since the vehicle is completely off the ground.
- Better for long distances and heavy-duty transport: Hauling is ideal for transporting luxury cars or non-operational vehicles. It’s also well-suited for truck transporting or heavy-duty loads like RVs or boats.
- Can transport multiple vehicles at once: Some hauling methods, such as those with two vertical levels, can accommodate more than one vehicle, saving time and money.
Cons:
- Higher cost: Hauling usually comes with a higher price tag, especially when specialized equipment is required.
- Limited availability for specific vehicles: Some hauling services may only be available for oversized vehicles or long-distance moves.
When to Choose Towing Services
There are specific situations when choosing towing is the best option. Whether it’s for emergency needs or local moves, towing can provide a quick and effective solution.
Roadside Emergencies
If your car breaks down, a tow vehicle can quickly transport it to a safe location. Reliable 24-hour towing services are available for emergency roadside assistance at any time of day or night.
Local Moves and Short Distances
Towing is often the most practical and cost-effective solution for transporting a vehicle a short distance, such as from one town to another.
Relocating Operational Vehicles
Even if your vehicle is operational but stranded, towing may be the quickest solution to move it to a new location or back to a repair shop.
When opting for towing, ensure the towing vehicle has the appropriate towing capacity for your vehicle. Wheel lift tow trucks often have twice the towing capacity of standard tow trucks.
When to Choose Vehicle Hauling Services
Hauling is usually the better option if you need to transport a vehicle for a long distance or if the vehicle requires extra protection.
Long-Distance Transport
Hauling is the safest option for vehicle shipping. Whether you’re moving across the country or shipping a vehicle overseas, hauling ensures your vehicle will remain in good condition throughout the journey. Similarly, when planning a move, it’s important to hire experienced long-distance movers who can provide specialized services for transporting your vehicle and belongings over long distances.
Protecting High-Value Vehicles
When on the road, luxury, exotic, or classic cars are vulnerable to damage and theft. Using an enclosed carrier for hauling ensures they are shielded from the elements, road debris, and theft.
Heavy-duty and Oversized Loads
Hauling is necessary when transporting heavy-duty or oversized vehicles like RVs, boats, or construction equipment. These vehicles exceed the limits of standard towing capacity and require specialized equipment for safe transport.
Multiple Vehicles
Hauling can be more efficient if you need to transport multiple vehicles at once. For dealerships or rental companies, hauling several cars at once on a multi-vehicle carrier can save time and reduce costs.
Towing and Hauling Solutions for Dealerships and Rental Companies
Dealerships and Hauling
Dealerships often use hauling to transport high-value or new vehicles to customers for deliveries or relocations. Hauling minimizes the risk of damage while ensuring the vehicle arrives in pristine condition. Additionally, it can be used to move inventory between dealerships, ensuring vehicles are relocated quickly and efficiently.
Rental Companies and Towing
Towing is crucial for rental companies when vehicles break down or need to be relocated between branches. A reliable tow truck service ensures that rental cars are promptly repaired or replaced, minimizing customer inconvenience.
Tips for Choosing a Reliable Towing or Hauling Service
To ensure a smooth and efficient transport experience, consider the following when choosing a service:
- Experience and Reputation: Select a provider with a solid track record of reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Quality Equipment: Ensure the provider uses well-maintained tow trucks and hauling vehicles that are capable of safely transporting your vehicle.
- Matching Your Needs: Ensure the company has the right equipment for your vehicle’s size, weight, and transport needs.
- Transparent Pricing: Always ask for an upfront estimate and ensure there are no hidden fees.
Conclusion
Choosing between towing and hauling depends on your vehicle’s needs, the distance involved, and its condition. Towing is suitable for short distances and emergencies, while hauling is the preferred method for long-distance transport or moving high-value vehicles.
If you’re unsure which method to use, consulting with a professional towing company and vehicle hauling service will ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective transport of your vehicle.Need to move your vehicle? Contact our trusted professionals today to find the best towing service for your needs!