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Flatbed Tow Truck for Sale GuideMechanic.Com Flatbed tow trucks, often called rollback tow trucks, are the backbone of the towing and recovery industry in the United States.
Unlike hook-and-chain or wheel-lift wreckers, flatbeds allow vehicles to be fully loaded onto a tilted platform. This makes them safer, more versatile, and essential for modern towing companies.
If you’re searching for a flatbed tow truck for sale, you’ll find options ranging from light-duty Ford and Dodge units to heavy-duty Freightliner and Kenworth rigs. Whether you’re a small operator or managing a large fleet, investing in a flatbed is often the smartest choice.
Flatbed Tow Truck for Sale
See Also: Rollback Tow Truck for Sale
Why Flatbed Tow Trucks Are in High Demand
- Vehicle Safety – Cars ride on the bed instead of being dragged.
- Versatility – Can move cars, motorcycles, forklifts, small trucks, and equipment.
- Insurance Requirements – Many roadside assistance contracts require flatbeds.
- Durability – Built to handle tough jobs, with steel or aluminum beds.
- Resale Value – Flatbeds hold value better than standard wreckers.
Types of Flatbed Tow Trucks for Sale
Light-Duty Flatbeds
- Based on Ford F-350, Chevy 3500, or Dodge Ram 4500/5500 chassis.
- Great for city towing and roadside rescues.
Medium-Duty Flatbeds
- Freightliner M2, Hino 258, International DuraStar.
- Most popular in the U.S. market, balancing power and affordability.
Heavy-Duty Flatbeds
- Kenworth T880, Peterbilt 337/348, Western Star.
- Used for heavy cargo, buses, or semi-truck recovery.
Price Guide: Flatbed Tow Trucks for Sale (2025)
| Flatbed Tow Truck Type | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light-Duty Flatbed | $35,000 – $60,000 | New Ford or Dodge chassis with aluminum bed |
| Medium-Duty Flatbed | $60,000 – $115,000 | Freightliner, Hino, and International dominate this segment |
| Heavy-Duty Flatbed | $120,000 – $250,000 | Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks with extended capacity |
| Used Flatbed Tow Truck | $20,000 – $45,000 | Older units, often with higher mileage |
| Flatbed Tow Truck Under $15k | $10,000 – $15,000 | Rare; usually auctions or private sales |
Flatbed Tow Truck for Sale
Best Brands for Flatbed Tow Trucks
- Ford – Affordable, light-duty flatbeds.
- Chevy & GMC – Reliable for small to mid-size towing companies.
- Ram (Dodge) – Popular with independent tow operators.
- Freightliner M2 – The most widely used medium-duty rollback in the U.S.
- Hino – Japanese brand known for reliability and low operating costs.
- International – Strong in commercial fleets.
- Kenworth & Peterbilt – Premium heavy-duty flatbed options.
Where to Buy Flatbed Tow Trucks
- Dealerships – Truck dealers specializing in new and certified used flatbeds.
- Auctions – Government fleet auctions and repossessed trucks.
- Online Listings – Truck Paper, Commercial Truck Trader, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace.
- Tow Truck Builders – Companies that customize chassis into tow-ready flatbeds.
- Private Sellers – Often the best deals for older, budget-friendly units.
Tips for Buying a Flatbed Tow Truck
- Bed Material – Aluminum beds are lighter and resist rust, steel beds are stronger and cheaper.
- Winch Capacity – Most flatbeds come with 8,000–12,000 lb winches; heavy-duty may need 20,000+.
- Tilt & Hydraulics – Smooth hydraulic systems are key for safe loading.
- Mileage vs. Condition – High-mileage trucks can still be good if well-maintained.
- Check Rust – Especially in northern states where road salt is used.
Flatbed Tow Truck for Sale
Case Study: Independent Operator Buys a Flatbed
A towing business in Dallas, Texas purchased a 2017 Hino 258 rollback with 180,000 miles for $48,000. The truck had a strong service record and aluminum bed.
Within three months, the owner secured contracts with local insurance companies, earning back nearly 25% of the purchase cost.
This demonstrates how a smart investment in a used flatbed can generate fast returns.
Pros and Cons of Flatbed Tow Trucks
Pros:
- Safest method for transporting vehicles.
- Can tow multiple types of equipment.
- High resale value.
- Required by many insurance/roadside companies.
Cons:
- More expensive than wheel-lift wreckers.
- Larger trucks can be harder to maneuver in tight areas.
- Hydraulic repairs can be costly.
Flatbed Tow Truck for Sale
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the cheapest flatbed tow truck I can buy?
A: Older used flatbeds at auctions may sell for $10,000–$15,000, but expect repairs.
Q: Are aluminum flatbeds better than steel?
A: Aluminum beds are lighter and resist rust, but steel beds are cheaper and stronger.
Q: Can I finance a flatbed tow truck?
A: Yes, many dealers and lenders offer financing with terms similar to commercial vehicles.
Q: How many miles is too many for a used flatbed?
A: Anything over 250,000 miles requires careful inspection, but strong maintenance records matter more than mileage alone.
Conclusion
Flatbed tow trucks are a must-have for modern towing operations. Whether you’re a small operator looking for a used rollback under $50,000 or a fleet manager investing in heavy-duty Kenworth flatbeds, the U.S. market in 2025 offers plenty of options.
Safe, versatile, and high in demand, a flatbed tow truck is not just a purchase—it’s an investment that can expand your business opportunities and deliver long-term profits.
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