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Updated October 27, 2026
A flatbed carries your vehicle on a platform with all four wheels off the road. A wheel lift raises one end of the vehicle by its tires; the other wheels may stay on the road, or ride on towing dollies when the approved setup requires it.
That is the main difference, but it does not tell you which truck your car needs. The right choice depends on the manufacturer's instructions, drivetrain, vehicle condition and access at the pickup. This guide explains what Toronto and GTA drivers should know before booking.
A flatbed, also called a carrier or rollback, has a platform that moves into a loading position. The vehicle is driven or winched aboard as appropriate, then secured for transport. Its wheels remain on the deck during the trip.
Flatbed towing can be a suitable option for a disabled car, a vehicle with specific drivetrain requirements, or a planned trip to a repair facility. Loading still needs care: a low bumper, locked wheel or damaged suspension can change the equipment and approach needed.
A wheel lift uses a support beneath the front or rear tires to raise one end of the vehicle. The correct end and transport setup depend on the vehicle. When permitted, the other axle rolls on the road. When all wheels must be raised, suitable towing dollies may support the other axle.
This is different from an old-style sling that supports a vehicle around its body or bumper. A wheel lift is also not permission to tow every car with two wheels on the road.
Tell dispatch whether your vehicle is AWD or four-wheel drive, including the exact model and year. Some vehicles require all wheels off the road; others have specific approved procedures. Selecting neutral or switching a dashboard setting does not, by itself, establish that a vehicle can be towed with wheels turning on the road.
The operator should follow the transport instructions for your particular vehicle. A flatbed or an approved wheel lift and dolly setup may be appropriate, depending on those instructions and the situation.
EVs and hybrids need model-specific handling. For example, Tesla's Model 3 instructions recommend a flatbed and require all four wheels off the ground during transport. They also describe a wheel lift and dolly alternative with distance and equipment limits. See the manufacturer's Model 3 transport instructions for the full conditions.
Do not apply one model's procedure to every electric car. Share the model, year, battery condition and whether you have access to the keys and controls. Read our electric vehicle towing guide for more booking considerations.
A flatbed does not automatically prevent scraping during loading. Tell dispatch about lowered suspension, body kits, long overhangs or a damaged bumper. The operator needs to assess the approach angle and any additional loading equipment before moving the vehicle.
A car with a damaged axle, missing wheel or locked steering needs a loading assessment. Describe the damage and send photographs if you can do so safely. Moving it out of its resting position and transporting it to a shop may require different steps. See our vehicle recovery service for recovery requests.
Access can determine how the job starts. Give dispatch the posted height clearance, parking level, entrance location and any tight turns or steep ramps. A truck that can carry your car outside may not fit inside the garage.
A suitable low-clearance recovery arrangement may be needed to bring the vehicle to an accessible loading area. The operator must assess the garage and vehicle before confirming the plan. Avoid booking solely by truck type without explaining where the car is parked.
The final price depends on the complete job, including the vehicle, distance, access, loading difficulty and equipment required. Do not assume a wheel lift is always cheaper or a flatbed always costs more.
Ask for the proposed service and charges before confirming. If you are using roadside assistance or insurance, check the provider's dispatch and reimbursement conditions. Our Ontario towing insurance guide explains the questions to ask.
The safest suitable arrangement is the one that follows the vehicle manufacturer's requirements and accounts for the vehicle's condition and pickup location. Equipment selection, loading and securement all matter.
Only with an arrangement permitted for that vehicle. Dollies may be required to raise the remaining wheels. Do not assume that towing an AWD car on two wheels is acceptable.
Often, yes. The operator needs to know whether it can roll and steer, and whether damage or locked wheels will require additional loading aids.
The terms overlap when a flatbed uses a tilting deck to load a vehicle. Tilt and load service can also involve machinery, equipment and suitable trailer transfers. Our tilt and load guide explains those uses.
Call Norman Towing at (647) 244-1129 or request service online. Tell us about your vehicle and location so we can discuss suitable equipment, availability and pricing. You can also contact our team with questions before booking.
One call is all it takes. We're ready to assist you 24/7.
