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When to Choose Flatbed Towing in Calgary (And When You Don’t)

Joe D

If your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident in Calgary, choosing the right towing method matters more than most drivers realise. One of the safest options available today is flatbed towing, but it is not always required for every situation.

In this guide, we’ll explain what flatbed towing is, when you should choose it, when other towing methods may work, and why flatbed towing is often the safest choice in Calgary’s road and weather conditions.

What Is Flatbed Towing?

Flatbed towing uses a tow truck with a long, flat platform on the back. Your vehicle is either driven or winched onto the platform and secured in place. Once loaded, all four wheels are completely off the ground during transport.

This method is very different from traditional wheel-lift or hook towing, where two wheels stay on the road while the vehicle is pulled behind the tow truck.

Because the entire vehicle is lifted, flatbed towing significantly reduces the risk of:

  • Drivetrain damage
  • Suspension wear
  • Bumper or undercarriage scraping
  • Tire damage

This is why flatbed towing is widely considered the safest towing option, especially for modern vehicles.

Vehicles That Should Always Use Flatbed Towing

While flatbed towing can be used for almost any vehicle, some cars should always be transported this way.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Vehicles

Many AWD vehicles are not designed to be towed with two wheels on the ground. Doing so can cause serious damage to the drivetrain, transmission, or differential.

Flatbed towing ensures:

  • No wheels are rotating during transport
  • No stress on AWD systems
  • Manufacturer-recommended towing method is followed

If you drive an AWD SUV or crossover in Calgary, flatbed towing is the safest option.

Luxury, Sports, and Low-Clearance Vehicles

Luxury and performance vehicles often sit lower to the ground and have sensitive suspension systems. Even short tows using wheel-lift methods can lead to:

  • Front bumper scraping
  • Exhaust or undercarriage damage
  • Misaligned suspension components

Flatbed towing prevents these issues by lifting the vehicle completely off the road.

Accident-Damaged or Non-Running Vehicles

After an accident, a vehicle may not roll freely or steer properly. Trying to tow it using traditional methods can worsen existing damage.

Flatbed towing allows:

This makes flatbed towing the preferred choice after collisions.

Flatbed Towing vs Wheel-Lift Towing

Many drivers ask whether flatbed towing is always better than wheel-lift towing. The answer depends on the situation.

Flatbed Towing

Best for:

  • AWD vehicles
  • Luxury and specialty cars
  • Long-distance towing
  • Accident-damaged vehicles

Benefits:

  • Maximum safety
  • Zero wear on tires and drivetrain
  • Ideal for Calgary highways and winter roads

Wheel-Lift Towing

Best for:

Benefits:

  • Faster loading in tight spaces
  • Often slightly lower cost

While wheel-lift towing can work in certain cases, flatbed towing offers greater peace of mind, especially for valuable or modern vehicles.

Is Flatbed Towing More Expensive in Calgary?

Flatbed towing can sometimes cost slightly more than traditional towing, but the difference is often smaller than expected.

Pricing usually depends on:

  • Distance of the tow
  • Vehicle size and weight
  • Time of day (after-hours or emergency calls)
  • Road and weather conditions

When you consider the cost of potential vehicle damage, flatbed towing is often the smarter investment, not the expensive option.

When You May Not Need Flatbed Towing

Flatbed towing is not always required. In some situations, other towing methods may be suitable, such as:

  • Short-distance tows for older vehicles
  • Vehicles with no drivetrain restrictions
  • Simple breakdowns close to a repair shop

A professional towing company will assess your vehicle and recommend the safest and most cost-effective option.

Flatbed Towing in Calgary’s Weather Conditions

Calgary’s weather can change quickly, especially during winter. Snow, ice, and slush increase the risk of vehicle movement during towing.

Flatbed towing offers added safety because:

  • The vehicle is fully secured
  • No wheels are exposed to icy roads
  • Stability is improved on highways

This makes flatbed towing especially valuable during Alberta winters.

Why Professional Flatbed Towing Matters

Not all towing services are the same. Experienced operators know:

  • How to properly secure vehicles
  • How to load low-clearance cars safely
  • How to transport vehicles without causing damage

Choosing a professional flatbed towing service ensures your vehicle arrives safely, whether it’s being moved across Calgary or across Alberta.

Book Flatbed Towing in Calgary

If your vehicle needs safe, damage-free transport, flatbed towing is often the best solution. Whether you drive an AWD vehicle, a luxury car, or need long-distance transport, professional flatbed towing helps protect your investment.

For fast and reliable flatbed towing in Calgary, contact a trusted local towing provider and request a quote today.