Light Duty Towing in Calgary
Light duty towing is the most common type of tow — built for everyday cars, crossovers and small SUVs that need to get from where they broke down to where they can be fixed.
What Light Duty Towing Is
Light duty towing uses smaller tow trucks, typically wheel-lift equipped, designed to move passenger cars, crossovers, small SUVs and light trucks. It's the default option for the majority of everyday breakdowns — a vehicle that won't start, has a mechanical issue, or simply needs to move from one location to another without being driven.
The truck lifts one end of the vehicle — usually the drive wheels — off the ground using a hydraulic wheel-lift, while the other end rolls on its own tires during transport. This method is fast to set up and works well for the majority of vehicles without major mechanical, structural, or drivetrain complications.
Who Typically Needs Light Duty Towing
- A sedan, hatchback, or coupe that won't start or drive
- A crossover or small SUV without all-wheel drive complications
- A vehicle that needs to move a short distance to a shop or home
- A vehicle without collision damage affecting the wheels or steering
Common Situations
Most light duty calls fall into a few categories: a car that won't start and needs to reach a mechanic, a vehicle with a check-engine light that shouldn't be driven further, a car that stalled in traffic or a parking lot, or a routine transport where the owner simply needs the vehicle moved. None of these require specialized equipment beyond a properly equipped light duty truck.
What RST Can Help With
Once you call, we'll confirm your vehicle type, location, and destination. If the vehicle is a standard passenger car or crossover without AWD or collision damage, a light duty truck is typically dispatched. Our driver will hook up the vehicle, secure it properly, and transport it to the shop, dealership, or address you specify.
When Flatbed Might Be Better Instead
If your vehicle is all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive, has a driveline or transmission issue, or was in a collision, flatbed towing is usually the more appropriate option. Mention these details when you call so the right truck is sent the first time.
Read About Flatbed TowingHow a Light Duty Tow Works
Call & Describe
Tell us your location, vehicle, and what's wrong.
Truck Dispatched
A light duty truck is sent if it matches your situation.
Vehicle Secured
Our driver hooks up and secures your vehicle for transport.
Delivered
Your vehicle is taken to the shop, dealership, or address you chose.
Need a Standard Tow?
Light duty towing covers most everyday breakdowns.
Available Throughout
Frequently Asked Questions
Is light duty towing right for my crossover or small SUV?
In most cases, yes — unless it's all-wheel-drive with a mechanical issue, or was in a collision. Mention your vehicle's drivetrain when you call.
Can light duty towing handle a car with a flat tire?
Yes, a vehicle with a flat tire (and no other damage) can typically be moved with a light duty tow, or we can assist with a spare tire swap roadside instead — ask when you call.
Will the driver take my car exactly where I want it?
Yes. Tell us the destination — a specific shop, dealership, or your home — and that's where your vehicle will go.