Wrecker Towing & Vehicle Recovery in Calgary
A wrecker uses a hydraulic boom and wheel-lift to tow disabled vehicles and assist with basic recovery situations. Here's what that looks like in practice.
What a Wrecker Does
A wrecker, also called a wheel-lift truck, uses a hydraulic boom and lift arm to raise one end of a vehicle off the ground. It's one of the most common and versatile pieces of towing equipment, covering everyday tows as well as some recovery situations that a standard flatbed can't handle on its own.
Because the boom can extend, angle, and apply lifting force, a wrecker can also help reposition a vehicle before it's loaded — for example, pulling a car forward off a curb, out of a ditch edge, or away from a barrier so it can be towed safely.
Situations Where a Wrecker Is Appropriate
- A disabled vehicle needs a standard tow to a shop or home
- A vehicle needs to be repositioned before it can be loaded or driven
- A minor collision hasn't caused major structural or driveline damage
- A vehicle needs to be removed from a parking spot, driveway, or lot
- A basic recovery situation — partially off a shoulder or driveway edge
Wreckers and Recovery Situations
Not every stuck vehicle needs a full recovery operation. A car that's slid partway off a driveway, or is resting against a curb, can often be freed using the wrecker's boom alone. More involved situations — a vehicle stuck deep in snow, mud, or off an embankment — may call for winch-out equipment in addition to the tow truck. Describe the scene when you call so we can send the right combination of equipment.
Wrecker TowingWrecker vs. Flatbed
A wrecker tows with one end of the vehicle on the road and works well for most everyday, undamaged vehicles. A flatbed carries the whole vehicle and is generally preferred for AWD vehicles, driveline problems, or collision damage. If you're unsure which applies to your situation, our dispatcher can help.
Compare With Flatbed TowingStuck Somewhere?
If your vehicle is stuck rather than simply broken down, our winch-out and recovery service may be the better starting point.
See Winch-Out & RecoveryNeed a Wrecker?
Describe the situation and location, and we'll dispatch the right equipment.
Available Throughout
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a wrecker and a tow truck?
"Wrecker" and "wheel-lift tow truck" generally refer to the same type of equipment. "Tow truck" is the broader term that also includes flatbed trucks.
Can a wrecker help if my car is stuck in snow?
For minor situations, often yes. For a vehicle stuck deeper in snow, mud, or off an embankment, we may also use winch-out equipment alongside the wrecker.
Will the wrecker damage my vehicle's bumper or frame during lift?
Our drivers use lift points and equipment appropriate to your vehicle to avoid unnecessary damage during towing.