What Is the GVWR of a Tow Truck?

A tow truck is a vehicle used to haul an incapacitated vehicle from one location to another. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of a tow truck is a measure of its maximum carrying capacity and must be taken into consideration when choosing the right tow truck for your needs.

GVWR is determined by taking the weight of the tow truck itself and adding the total weight of all passengers, cargo, and any other items that will be loaded into it. For instance, if you plan on loading your tow truck with several passengers, cargo, and equipment such as chains, straps, and other towing accessories, then you need to factor in their combined weight when calculating the GVWR for your tow truck.

When it comes to choosing a tow truck for personal use or business purposes, it is important to get one with a GVWR high enough to accommodate your needs. A higher GVWR allows you to transport larger loads without overloading your vehicle. Additionally, it also ensures that you stay within legal limits when transporting goods or passengers over long distances.

Types of Tow Trucks

Tow trucks come in various sizes and have different GVWRs depending on their type:

  • Light Duty – Light duty tow trucks usually have a GVWR of up to 9,000 lbs
  • Medium Duty – Medium duty tow trucks usually have a GVWR of up to 16,000 lbs
  • Heavy Duty – Heavy duty tow trucks usually have a GVWR of up to 25,000 lbs.

The type of vehicle being towed will also determine the size and weight capacity needed for the job. For instance, if you plan on transporting cars or SUVs then you’ll likely need a medium or heavy-duty tow truck with enough capacity for these types of vehicles. On the other hand, if you’re only hauling smaller items like motorcycles or ATVs then a light-duty model might be sufficient.

Conclusion

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for a tow truck can range from 9,000 lbs up to 25,000 lbs depending on its class and purpose. It is important to take into account both the size and weight capacity needed when selecting the right type of vehicle for your needs in order to stay within legal limits while transporting goods or passengers over long distances.

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Stephen Dunn