Category Vocational Trucks

Tow trucks come in various shapes, sizes, and strength levels. Understanding the different types is the first step in knowing the right one that suits your business needs. At their core, tow trucks are used to move vehicles from one location to another, making them a valuable asset in areas where vehicle recovery or transportation services are in high demand.

Without further ado, let’s unravel the various types of tow trucks there are and their functions to help you make the right choice. 

WHAT ARE TOW TRUCKS USED FOR?

Tow trucks are used for transporting vehicles such as improperly parked cars, disabled vehicles, or damaged cars. They are also useful during emergencies and accidents to recover vehicles that are stuck. The following are the different ways a tow truck can be used:

• Vehicle recovery
• Illegal parking
• Vehicle transportation
• Vehicle repossession
• Impoundment
• Emergency roadside assistance
• Accident clearance

The kind of tow truck used largely depends on the type of situation and the size of the vehicle. 

TYPES OF TOW TRUCKS

While tow trucks are powerful equipment given that they possess the power to lift other vehicles, they are not all built the same way. They come in different sizes and capabilities, which makes identifying the right one to use very essential. Below are the different types you will find around:

FLATBED OR ROLLBACK TOW TRUCKS

Flatbed bed tow trucks are also called rollbacks. They are designed with a flat platform that can be hydraulically inclined to ground level. This feature allows for safely winching immobile and damaged vehicles into the bed. It can also be used by car dealers to transport new cars across states while guaranteeing a safe delivery of these vehicles.  

A major benefit of a flatbed is that it helps to reduce the risk of having further damage done to the towed vehicle and can be used for multiple purposes. However, flatbeds can come with certain limitations such as not being able to fit into tight spaces. 

HOOK AND CHAIN TOW TRUCK 

This is one of the oldest tow trucks you will see around today. This kind comes with hooks and chains that are wrapped around the vehicle to lift them into the truck. The primary purpose of a hook-and-chain tow truck is to lift damaged, wrecked, or junk vehicles and take them off the road. They can also come in handy in lifting vehicles stuck in a ditch or snow. However, they are not ideal for day-to-day use because of the potential damage they can cause during towing. 

If you are considering towing vehicles with significant damage, then a hook-and-chain truck is what you may be looking to buy. If not, you might want to explore the other options as this is not ideal for modern vehicles.

WHEEL LIFT TOW TRUCK

The wheel lift tow truck uses a metal yoke to hook either the front or rear wheels of a vehicle to lift them off the ground. It works similarly to the hook and chain truck, but by targeting only the wheels, the wheel lift tow truck minimizes the risk of damage to the vehicle. 

Generally, it is more suitable for towing smaller vehicles over short distances and in the case of urgent removal of vehicles from the road. It is also quicker and more efficient than the hook-and-chain truck, given that there is less potential for vehicle damage. On the downside, it may not be suitable for all-wheel-drive.

BOOM TOW TRUCK

A boom truck employs the use of a hydraulic crane that is mounted on its frame for towing a vehicle. What this boom does is lift various heavy materials and equipment, making it indispensable in multiple industries such as construction, and others. Instead of a hook or metal yoke, the boom truck uses a belt which reduces the risk of damage.

Industries rely on boom tow trucks because of its versatility. It can perform many tasks at once, thus reducing the need for additional equipment. It also simplifies workflow as it is easy to move around. But just like the wheel lift, they are not ideal for vehicles with all-wheel drive.

INTEGRATED TOW TRUCK

These are heavy-duty tow trucks built for towing large vehicles. Designed with an industrial boom, there is almost no vehicle that an integrated tow truck cannot handle. You will often see them used to recover vehicles from ditches or other heavy equipment on busy roads or in the event of an accident. 

In a nutshell, you can rely on an integrated truck if you are looking for high versatility and a vehicle that can handle a wide range of vehicles or equipment. Due to its strength, it may be limited in maneuverability in confined areas.

HEAVY-DUTY ROTATOR TOW TRUCK

If you are looking for something more versatile than the integrated tow truck that can handle any complex recovery, then the heavy-duty rotator is what you are looking for. It is equipped with a rotating boom capable of pivoting up to 360 degrees. This configuration makes it easy to recover vehicles in particularly hard-to-reach locations. These heavy-duty trucks have sturdy frames that enable them to recover other trucks and large equipment. 

WHAT IS THE BEST TOW TRUCK TO BUY?

All different types of tow trucks achieve different purposes, and they all have their pros and cons. These make it difficult to give a direct answer on the best tow truck to buy. Ideally, you want to assess your reasons for buying one and the kind of vehicles you want to tow. 

If you are looking at towing immobile vehicles, a flatbed would be an excellent choice as it provides a secure platform and minimizes the risk of damage to the vehicle during transport. An integrated or heavy-duty tow truck can be a great investment if your target is to handle large vehicles in complex situations.  

Ultimately, consider your operational requirements, budget, and the typical environments where you’ll be towing. This will guide you toward selecting the tow truck that aligns with your specific business needs.

FINANCING DIFFERENT TOW TRUCKS WITH INSPIRED FUNDING

Just like tow trucks vary in size and functions, they also vary in terms of price. And buying a new one can dig a hole in your finances without proper planning. The best way to stay ahead is by partnering with a truck financing expert like Inspired Funding.

With years of experience and success with different clients, Inspired Funding can help you explore your financing options regardless of your credit background. It’s all about finding what works best for your unique situation while helping you get funding for your dream truck.

Tow trucks are indispensable equipment in the automotive and logistics industries. They offer the muscle needed to haul vehicles of all sizes, whether damaged or for emergency purposes. 

As we approach 2025, it is almost impossible to overlook how technological innovations and groundbreaking engineering have elevated truck designs, making them more efficient, reliable, and versatile. In this blog post, we present some of the best tow truck models to consider in 2025.

FORD SUPER DUTY F-SERIES

The Ford Super Duty F-series offers a lineup that continues to raise the bar for heavy-duty tow trucks. This includes the F-250, F-350, and the F-450, designed to handle the most demanding tasks.  These trucks have a best-in-class towing capacity, ranging from 22,000 pounds on the F-250 to an astounding 40,000 pounds on the F-450. The Super Duty line also features robust V8 gasoline and turbo-diesel engine options that provide unmatched performance, making them a favorite for hauling, construction, and long-distance towing.

Sophistication meets functionality in these trucks, as they combine rugged capabilities with luxurious interiors and cutting-edge towing technology, ensuring both comfort and confidence on every drive. For anyone in need of a truck that balances earth-moving power with intelligent design, the Ford Super Duty F-Series is a must-consider in 2025.

GMC SIERRA HD LINEUP

These workhorses have a maximum towing capacity of as much as 36,000 pounds, and they rank among the best trucks that one should consider purchasing in 2025. For power, these leading HD trucks have a 6.6L V8 engine, while the option for turbo diesel is unrivaled. Additionally, the innovative MultiPro tailgate significantly expands functionality, turning the toughest jobs into a breeze.

For the interiors, the Sierra HD lineup marries capability with comfort featuring a spacious crew cab. Also expect advanced towing technologies and intuitive infotainment systems that ensure safety, convenience, and confidence for the driver.  If you’re looking for a truck that’s as rugged as it is refined, the Sierra HD lineup deserves a place on your 2025 wishlist.

RAM HEAVY-DUTY TRUCKS

Other than being popularly excellent at towing, the leverage on high technology makes Ram heavy-duty trucks part of this list. If what you want is a durable truck, then Ram tow trucks have just that. With their over 20,000 pounds of towing capacity, they excel at hauling trailers and big vehicles. It is more about heavy-duty operators with attractive features like adaptive cruise control with stop functionality and monitoring of trailer tire pressure. 

The towing capacity of Ram 2500 extends up to 20,000 pounds for commercial or personal purposes. Additionally, it has a powerful 6.4L V8 engine that doles out seamless performance of 410 horsepower. 

The Ram 3500, however, redefines what a heavy-duty truck can offer. It boasts of a 23,000-pound towing capacity, industrial-grade power combined with a luxurious driving experience. You can also expect more from other models like the 4500, 5500 and 6500.

FREIGHTLINER M2 112

As a truck with outstanding dependability, the Freightliner M2 112 had grown into a favorite with medium-duty operators. Offering an easily maneuverable design combined with rugged durability and running on the Detroit® DD13 engine®, it delivers unrivaled horsepower and torque in every demanding situation that might require quick delivery. With huge heavy-duty hauls and maneuvering in confined parking spaces, the M2 112 handles these challenges thanks to its great maneuverability and ergonomic design.

The Freightliner M2 112 also ranks high for those truckers who consider environmental concerns by offering natural gas motor options. This makes it a top choice for eco-conscious companies without compromising power.

CHEVROLET SILVERADO HD LINEUP

Heavy-duty capability and refinement go hand in hand to make the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD contenders for 2025. The Silverado 2500HD boasts of an available towing of up to 20,000 pounds, while being enabled with an advanced 13.4-inch infotainment system. The off-road-ready ZR2 trim provides a healthy dose of ruggedness, while the strong 6.6L V8 sees to the consistent performance of the heavy jobs.

At the pinnacle of the lineup is the 3500HD. Truckers love the Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD because of its reliability in heavy-duty hauling and towing. It’s powered by the Duramax® 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8, with a maximum towing capacity of 36,000 pounds. The Chevrolet Silverado also features a multi-flex tailgate and an advanced trailering system that makes it even more usable-if you want efficiency and comfort.

KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A TOW TRUCK 

When choosing a tow truck, several factors should be considered, including towing capacity, engine options, cab and bed configurations, trim levels, technology and comfort features, and overall cost. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations:

TOWING CAPACITY

The towing capacity is perhaps the most important factor considered in buying a truck. Often, what you will want to haul determines how much the required towing capacity is. For example, the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD has an upward of 36,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the Ford 250 offers up to 22,000 lbs. Aside from these, other models have lesser towing capacity, so ensure you align with your desired specification.

ENGINE OPTION AND PERFORMANCE 

Trucks come with various engine options, such as gasoline, diesel, and electric. The 2024 Ram 2500 comes with a standard gas 6.4-liter V8, although the option of diesel power is available. Ford provides hybrid and full-electric powertrains. Check for specific engines and performances since your choice can affect both power and fuel efficiency.

CAB AND BED CONFIGURATIONS

The choice of cab and bed configuration impacts the truck’s functionality. Options include regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab, as well as different bed lengths. Crew cabs offer more passenger space, while regular cabs prioritize cargo space. For example, the 2024 Ram 2500 is available in various cab and bed-length options.

TECHNOLOGY AND COMFORT

Different modern trucks have advanced technological features and comforts as evidenced from the models being explored. For instance, the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD has a 13.4-inch infotainment system, while the 2024 Ram 3500 has a great interior. Consider what features you want most for your needs, but make sure to include modern technology and comfortability in your priorities.

COST

The top brands of trucks mostly possess a high purchase price. However, other post-purchase expenses include fuel efficiency, insurance, and maintenance costs. The good thing is that there are several financing options to help you manage purchasing and repair costs seamlessly.

OTHER FACTORS

Go for models that are recognized for their reliability and durable service life. Other factors to consider include safety features, off-road capabilities, ride quality, and specific needs. Some trucks have relatively better off-road capabilities, such as the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado, excellent in this regard.

CONCLUSION

The tow truck market offers a wide range of options if you are looking to add new models to your fleet in 2025. From the heavy-duty Ford F-450 Super Duty to other alternatives like the Ram 3500, Ford F-350, and Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD, there are great options to pick from. Also remember to consider important factors like towing capacity, interior features, technology, and your specific needs and preferences. 

As you explore these tow truck models, remember that it is essential to have a reliable financing partner like Inspired Funding. With a suitable financing plan, you can focus more on choosing the best truck for your business, prioritizing those features that make for a smooth ride and durability. As for funding, we help you map out the financing plan that suits your unique situation, while ensuring you enjoy the peace of mind that comes with driving the best tow truck models. 

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

Inspired Funding has helped hundreds of truck companies secure the trucks they need to succeed. Whether you’re expanding your fleet, starting a new business, or navigating bad credit, we’re here to make truck financing simple and stress-free. 

We specialize in truck financing designed to get your business on the road to success. From box trucks and dump trucks to cargo vans, semi-trucks, and other vocational vehicles, our process is easy. Get guaranteed low payment on used and no hard pulls on credit scores. 

With competitive interest rates, flexible down payments, and manageable repayment plans, you can focus on growing your business without the stress. Start your journey to funding today!

There are several ways to finance a tow truck, including equipment financing, bank loans, and leasing. These options give you the flexibility to choose the one that best suits your business needs. 

The great news? There’s always an option available for you. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about tow truck financing and how to select the best option to increase your chances of approval.

WHY YOU SHOULD FINANCE A TOW TRUCK

Recent market trends show that the price range for a new tow truck varies from $90k to over $150k based on the model and manufacturer you choose to go with. Unless you’ve got that hefty sum tucked away safe, it might be wise to look into financing options​. The bright side is that there are many financing alternatives out there​. 

Deciding to finance a tow truck instead of buying it with cash upfront is beneficial due to the tax benefits that come with it along the way! Through financing, purchase expenses can be deducted from your income resulting in tax savings for your business operations! 

For instance, If your business generates a revenue below $10 million and you invest in a truck valued at $20k, there’s a possibility to deduct the entire cost of the vehicle in that same fiscal year.

Similarly, choosing a lease agreement could allow you to deduct the full lease payment as a tax write-off, whereas with a purchase option, you wouldn’t qualify for these deductions

TYPES OF TOW TRUCK FINANCING

Every trucking company is different, which is why there isn’t a universal financing solution. There are factors to take into account when exploring financing options. 

Achieving the best financing strategy entails understanding your company’s circumstances and selecting an option that aligns better with your business considering cash flow capacity, size of the operation, and budget constraints.

Let’s take a look at some of these types of tow truck financing so that you can make informed decisions. 

TRADITIONAL BUSINESS LOANS

If you walk up to a bank to ask for a loan to finance your tow truck, there is a high chance you walk out with the amount you need provided you meet their terms and conditions. This is called a traditional business loan. 

These are loans you take from banks or credit unions to finance any aspect of your business, including purchasing a vehicle. For this type, you would need an ideal credit score, a down payment, and collateral, which in this case will be the tow truck. 

EQUIPMENT FINANCING

Just like a mortgage helps you purchase a house, equipment financing helps you purchase any equipment for your business. This means this type of loan cannot be used for any other thing. 

Qualifications for equipment point directly to your ability to pay back, which is why it is more common for lenders to give 80% of the equipment value, while 20% serves as a down payment. Similar to the traditional loan alternative, the truck serves as collateral. 

Length for repayment can range from between months to years, and the interest rates depend on agreed-upon terms. 

LEASING

When you opt for equipment financing, you get to own the truck when your debt is paid, but that is not the case for leasing. Of all tow truck financing, leasing seems to be the less expensive option because it requires no down payment or high interest rates. However, you cannot own the truck at the end of the lease term. 

So why opt for leasing at all? 

Leasing is an attractive option for businesses who are looking at upgrading their trucks to newer models. What this means is that you can lease new or better truck models as you see fit. Regardless you can go for lease-to-own agreements, which allows you to purchase the truck after leasing is complete, but this comes with its conditions. 

BUSINESS LINE OF CREDIT

A business line of credit is a credit system that allows you to access funds on an as-needed basis. It works best for short-term loans and can be used to pay for your down payments and other expenses like repairs. 

ALTERNATIVE FINANCING OPTIONS

If credit score and business history are a concern for you, then you should consider alternative financiers. These are lenders that provide tow truck financing with bad credit. Best of all? You can find them online. 

Because they provide tailored financing solutions, you can expect flexible funding solutions such as quicker approvals and more adaptable terms, compared to banks. If you are new to the business without a credit score and business history, this is the option you can look out for and explore. 

QUALIFICATION FOR TOW TRUCK FINANCING

While we have already covered some of these, let’s have a checklist of the basic things a bank or lender will look out for before giving you a tow truck loan:

• A FICO score of 650 and above
• At least three in business
• A minimum of 20% down payment
• No recent bankruptcies
• High credit balance, etc

HOW TO APPLY FOR TOW TRUCK FINANCING

RESEARCH THE FINANCING OPTIONS

Now that you know that there are different financing options available, the first step is knowing the right one for your business. Evaluate your business needs and financial strength to know the best option. 

APPLY FOR FUNDING

Once you have found the perfect choice for your business, begin the application process. Gather vital documents like 

• Business balance sheet
• Business and personal tax returns 
• Bank statement
• A copy of CDL
• Vehicle documents

Having all documents ready will make you prepared and make the application process easy. The application process will include stages like prequalification where the lender reviews essentials like credit score, revenue, and business history. Here, you get an idea of the loan amount and terms you may qualify for.

GET FUNDED

After going through the pre-qualification process, you and the lender will discuss essentials like loan terms like down payments, repayment length, interest rates, and more. Once this is done and finalized, you can get approved and get funded.

CONCLUSION

Finding the right tow truck for your business is easier than you think. With the right financing plan and a clear understanding of your needs, you’ll be ready to hit the road and drive toward success in no time.

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

Inspired Funding has helped hundreds of truck companies secure the trucks they need to succeed. Whether you’re expanding your fleet, starting a new business, or navigating bad credit, we’re here to make truck financing simple and stress-free. 

We specialize in truck financing designed to get your business on the road to success. From box trucks and dump trucks to cargo vans, semi-trucks, and other vocational vehicles, our process is easy. Get guaranteed low payment on used and no hard pulls on credit scores. 

With competitive interest rates, flexible down payments, and manageable repayment plans, you can focus on growing your business without the stress. Start your journey to funding today!

From construction sites to food industries, vocational trucks are the backbone of countless industries. The stats back this claim up: Trucking supports 8.4 million jobs. With no decline in sight for the truck industry, the right vocational truck can be the difference between a good investment and a great one.

In this article, we will explore the most popular vocational trucks and their uses so that you can make the right choice.

WHAT ARE VOCATIONAL TRUCKS?

A vocational truck is a vehicle designed for specific tasks or work. They are built on a truck chassis and come in either self-propelled or trailer-mounted configurations.

Unlike the general semi-trucks that are built to transport cargo over long distances, vocational trucks are built to serve particular functions in specific industries. The fields and industries where vocational trucks are highly utilized include but are not limited to:

• Construction
• Waste management
• Food and beverages
• Service and utility
• Emergency services, eg fire and rescue
• Towing

Additionally, vocational trucks are typically used within a limited area, such as a city or job site, and are equipped with features that enhance their ability to perform specific jobs.

COMMON VOCATIONAL TRUCKS

All vocational trucks are built differently and it is important you know that. The type of vocational truck you buy is largely based on what you want to use it for. Let’s explore some common vocational trucks:

1. DUMP TRUCKS

If you have ever been to a construction site, chances are high that you have seen a dump truck lying around somewhere. Dump trucks are used to haul loose materials like gravel, sand, and dirt. They are also popular during winter periods to clear snow. They come in different sizes depending on the kind of project you are handling.

2. CARGO VANS

Popular in the logistics industry for transporting goods, equipment, catering, and maintenance, cargo vans come with ample storage space. They also have secure storage compartments and shelves which make them an ideal choice for local deliveries.

3. GARBAGE TRUCKS

Just like the name suggests, garbage trucks are built for one purpose–collecting waste. They transport waste for disposal or recycling and are built to handle heavy loads.

Garbage trucks have a hydraulic system that helps to lift, compress, and store waste. Municipalities and private waste management companies rely on these trucks to keep cities clean and efficiently manage waste.

4. BUCKET TRUCKS

Equipped with an extendable boom arm, bucket trucks lift workers to heights so that they can perform elevated tasks safely. With a bucket truck, maintenance workers can perform tasks like repairing streetlights or powerlines, or trim tall trees.

5. FIRE TRUCKS

Fire trucks are emergency response vehicles used to assist firefighters during fire emergencies or rescue operations. They are built with tools like ladders, hoses, and tanks to aid in extinguishing fires.

6. TOW TRUCKS

These are vehicles commonly used by towing companies and roadside assistance to safely transport vehicles in different situations such as vehicle breakdowns or accidents. Tow trucks are versatile and can handle a range of vehicles, from small cars to larger trucks, depending on the type.

7. CONCRETE TRUCKS

Also known as cement mixers, concrete trucks are used in construction for mixing cement. These trucks come in different sizes, but have a rotating drum that mixes concrete while in motion, ensuring that it arrives at the site in the right consistency and ready to pour.

8. FLATBED TRUCKS 

Flatbed trucks have an open, flat platform used for transporting large or oversized equipment or construction materials that would not fit in regular enclosed trucks. They have no sides or roof, allowing for easy loading and offloading of machinery.

9. REFRIGERATED TRUCKS

Refrigerated trucks are also called reefer trucks and are used to transport perishable goods. They have an inbuilt refrigeration system which helps them maintain specific temperatures during the period of use. Industries that use reefers include food, pharmaceutical, chemical, and floral.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT VOCATIONAL TRUCK WITH INSPIRED FUNDING

One of the most common questions for newcomers to the trucking industry is: Which truck should I buy? Choosing the right vocational truck depends on the industry you want to serve. For example, if logistics and transportation are your goals, a cargo van might be the perfect fit. However, if waste management is your target, then a garbage truck would be ideal.  It is all about understanding the basic uses of these trucks and how they fit into your business and goals.

Beyond choosing the right truck is the need to pick the right financing partner. Trucks are a great investment. Paying outright for a vocational truck can eat deep into your pocket, and we don’t even recommend that. At Inspired Funding, our goal is to help you secure the best financing plan for you, whether you are buying a commercial truck, semi-truck, or dump truck. Our terms are flexible and the application process is seamless, ensuring that you get your truck business in motion with ease and confidence.