Towing isn’t just about hitching one vehicle to another; it’s a careful skill supported by various advanced methods to ensure safety, efficiency, and effectiveness. Whether you’re a truck owner looking to transport a vehicle or someone who might require towing services, understanding the different towing methods can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.
This guide introduces four common towing methods—wheel-lift, chain, dingy, and flatbed towing—outlining how each works, where it excels, and where it may fall short. Keep reading to uncover which towing method suits your needs best.

Top 4 Towing Methods and How They Work
1. Wheel-Lift Towing
How Does Wheel-Lift Towing Work?
Wheel-lift towing is one of the most common towing methods. It involves using a special tow truck equipped with a metal yoke that slides under the tires of the towed vehicle—usually the front or rear wheels. The yoke lifts the vehicle off the ground, allowing the remaining two wheels to roll on the road as it’s pulled by the tow truck.
When Is Wheel-Lift Towing Ideal?
- Short-distance towing in urban or suburban areas.
- Situations requiring quick vehicle removal, such as moving a car that’s obstructing traffic.
- Vehicles with rear-wheel or front-wheel drive.
Pros and Cons of Wheel-Lift Towing
Advantages
- Fast setup time makes it an efficient option for urgent towing needs.
- Compact design of the tow truck allows it to easily maneuver through tight spaces like narrow streets or parking lots.
- Cost-effective compared to flatbed towing.
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t offer as much protection as flatbed towing, since part of the vehicle is in direct contact with the road.
- Not suitable for vehicles with four-wheel drive or AWD systems, as it can damage their drivetrain.
Wheel-lift towing remains a go-to option for professionals handling quick or simple towing tasks, provided the circumstances fit.
2. Chain Towing
How Does Chain Towing Work?
Chain towing, also known as hook-and-chain towing, involves securing a vehicle to a tow truck using heavy-duty chains. The chains are typically wrapped around the frame or axles, while the truck pulls the vehicle with the rear-most wheels rolling freely on the pavement.
When Should You Rely on Chain Towing?
While it’s not as favored as it once was, chain towing plays an important role in situations like:
- Towing older vehicles or those already destined for scrap.
- Transporting vehicles stuck in off-road conditions where other methods may struggle, such as mud, snow, or uneven terrain.
What Are the Safety Considerations?
Chain towing can be risky, especially for modern vehicles. Chains that wrap tightly around a vehicle’s frame or axles can cause dents, scratches, or worse—structural damage. It’s important to work with a highly trained professional if chain towing is your only option.
Chain towing is an older and less commonly used method, but it works well in certain off-road scenarios. Use this method cautiously to avoid damaging sensitive vehicle components.
3. Dingy Towing (Or Flat Towing
What Is Dingy Towing?
If you’ve seen an RV pulling a small vehicle behind it, you’ve witnessed dingy towing in action. Also referred to as flat towing, this method involves attaching a vehicle to the towing vehicle using a tow bar. The towed vehicle’s wheels stay on the ground and roll freely as it’s pulled.
Vehicles Suitable for Dingy Towing
Not all vehicles can be flat-towed. Dingy towing works best for vehicles with:
- Manual transmissions.
- Systems designed to disconnect the drivetrain when being towed.
Popular flat-towing candidates include Jeep Wranglers, some Ford trucks, and certain models of SUVs and compact cars.
How Does Dingy Towing Compare?
Pros
- Ideal for long-distance towing, especially when traveling behind an RV.
- Fewer towing-specific modifications are needed compared to other methods.
Cons
- Not suitable for all vehicles, particularly those with automatic transmissions or AWD systems.
- Additional wear-and-tear on tires is a potential downside.
Dingy towing is a dependable option for adventurers and cross-country travelers with vehicles that meet the requirements.
4. Flatbed Towing – The Gold Standard
How Does Flatbed Towing Work?
Flatbed towing involves loading the entire vehicle onto a flatbed platform at the back of a tow truck. The vehicle is securely strapped down, preventing any contact with the road during transport.
Why Is Flatbed Towing Often Preferred?
Flatbed towing is extremely versatile and is suitable for:
- Transporting luxury vehicles where avoiding scratches or potential mechanical damage is important.
- Moving damaged vehicles that can’t be driven, such as those with broken axles or flat tires.
- Car shipping over long distances, ensuring maximum safety.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Flatbed Towing
Benefits
- Maximum protection for vehicles during transit, with no additional wear or damage to the tires or drivetrain.
- Suitable for virtually all vehicle types, including 4WD and AWD cars, motorcycles, and oversized trucks.
Limitations
- Can be more expensive than other towing methods.
- Requires additional time and effort to load and secure the car onto the flatbed.
For those who prioritize safety, versatility, and peace of mind, flatbed towing is the standout choice.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re towing a car after a sudden breakdown or shipping a vehicle across state lines, choosing the right towing method is crucial for safety and efficiency. From the quick and cost-effective wheel-lift method to the unmatched protection of flatbed towing, understanding your options empowers you to make informed decisions in any situation.
Unsure about the best approach for your car transport or towing needs? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for professional towing and car transportation services. We ship cars across the country, in and out of Indiana. Our local Indianapolis tow truck services operate 24 hours a day and 7 days a week for your convenience. We’ve got your back whatever your towing needs may be.
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