C6216 - Towing as a business

Operational Details
Tow companies are contracted by municipalities, cities, towns or villages to haul away vehicles that are over parked or in restricted areas. They also contract with the Saskatchewan Motor Association and other organizations such as Universities, private parking lot operators etc. to remove unwanted vehicles. Some walk-in trade is included in the operations. Police departments may also contact a tow company to have an impounded vehicle towed to a city lot.

Tow truck operators will also assist travellers by offering roadside emergency services such as: giving a battery boost, changing a flat tire, opening a door that is locked, filling a radiator with anti- freeze, pulling a vehicle out of a ditch, or removing the vehicle from an accident scene.

Tow trucks are equipped with a fixed boom. A cable is used to winch the front or rear of the vehicle up behind the tow truck. Dollies may also be used, which are slipped underneath the vehicles wheels so it rides on the dolly. The car can be towed as well with one set of wheels on the ground. Usually tow companies have more than one tow truck, and a larger diesel powered model may also be used with a trailer or flat bed to haul buses, pup trailers, or tractor unit.

Numerous employers in the automobile and transportation business have tow trucks, but only as part of their overall operations.

SIC Codes
000000304 - Towing