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Rollback Tow Truck for Sale GuideMechanic.Com In the towing industry, the term rollback tow truck is one of the most recognized.
Rollbacks, also known as flatbed tow trucks, feature a long hydraulically operated bed that can tilt and slide back to load vehicles safely. This makes them the most versatile trucks for towing cars, motorcycles, equipment, and even light trucks.
If you’re searching for a rollback tow truck for sale, you’ll find plenty of options across the U.S. market, from budget-friendly used rollbacks to brand-new heavy-duty rigs. In 2025, demand for rollback trucks remains high due to their safety, efficiency, and insurance compliance.
Rollback Tow Truck for Sale
See Also: Used Tow Truck for Sale
Why Choose a Rollback Tow Truck?
- Full Vehicle Transport – Vehicles are carried on the bed, reducing damage risk.
- Versatile Applications – Can move wrecked cars, luxury vehicles, and equipment.
- Insurance & Roadside Contracts – Many motor clubs require rollback trucks.
- Ease of Operation – Hydraulics simplify loading and unloading.
- Higher Earnings Potential – Rollback operators often get more calls and contracts.
Types of Rollback Tow Trucks
- Light-Duty Rollbacks
Built on Ford F-450/550, Dodge Ram 4500/5500, or Chevy 3500 chassis.
Perfect for city and roadside assistance jobs.
- Medium-Duty Rollbacks
Popular models: Freightliner M2, Hino 258, International DuraStar.
Handle daily fleet work and small commercial vehicles.
- Heavy-Duty Rollbacks
Brands: Kenworth T880, Peterbilt 337/348, Western Star.
Used for buses, box trucks, and equipment hauling.
Rollback Tow Truck for Sale
Price Guide: Rollback Tow Trucks for Sale (2025)
| Rollback Tow Truck Type | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light-Duty Rollback | $35,000 – $65,000 | Ford, Chevy, Ram chassis; ideal for roadside work |
| Medium-Duty Rollback | $65,000 – $120,000 | Freightliner, Hino, International are the top fleet choices |
| Heavy-Duty Rollback | $130,000 – $250,000 | Kenworth, Peterbilt, Western Star dominate this category |
| Used Rollback Tow Truck | $22,000 – $50,000 | Typically 5–10 years old, higher mileage but still reliable |
| Rollback Tow Truck Under $20k | $12,000 – $20,000 | Rare; usually auction or “by owner” sales; expect some repairs |
Best Brands for Rollback Tow Trucks
- Ford & Chevy – Affordable light-duty models for small operators.
- Ram – Strong engines, reliable hydraulic systems.
- Freightliner M2 – The most common rollback truck in the U.S. market.
- Hino – Known for fuel efficiency and low maintenance.
- International – A go-to for mid-sized towing companies.
- Kenworth & Peterbilt – Premium heavy-duty rollbacks with strong resale value.
Where to Buy Rollback Tow Trucks
- Commercial Dealers – Authorized truck dealers with new and certified used rollbacks.
- Fleet Auctions – Retired municipal and insurance fleet trucks, often lower cost.
- Online Platforms – Commercial Truck Trader, Truck Paper, eBay Motors, Craigslist.
- Tow Equipment Builders – Companies like Jerr-Dan, Miller Industries, and Century Towing supply new rollbacks.
- Private Sellers – Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are hotspots for “by owner” rollback sales.
Tips for Buying a Rollback Tow Truck
- Inspect Hydraulics – Smooth bed operation is critical; check for leaks.
- Check Frame & Bed – Rust can weaken steel beds, while aluminum resists corrosion.
- Engine & Transmission – Look for trucks with service records; rollbacks work hard daily.
- Winch Condition – Standard winches handle 8,000–12,000 lbs; heavy-duty trucks need more.
- Mileage Reality – A well-maintained truck with 200k+ miles may still be a good buy.
Case Study: Rollback Purchase in Georgia
A towing company in Atlanta bought a 2016 Freightliner M2 rollback with 210,000 miles for $42,000 at a fleet auction.
The truck needed $3,000 in hydraulic repairs but was put into service within two weeks. The company quickly landed a contract with a local auto dealer, recovering the investment within 8 months. This case shows how a well-priced used rollback can become profitable fast.
Rollback Tow Truck for Sale
Pros and Cons of Rollback Tow Trucks
Pros:
- Safest way to transport vehicles.
- Works for multiple industries (auto, equipment, delivery fleets).
- Higher demand ensures steady jobs.
- Strong resale value.
Cons:
- Higher upfront costs compared to wheel-lift trucks.
- Larger models can be harder in city traffic.
- Hydraulic maintenance can be expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are rollbacks the same as flatbeds?
A: Yes, “rollback” is another name for a flatbed tow truck.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to buy a rollback?
A: Auctions and private sales often list older rollbacks under $20k, but they may need work.
Q: Do rollbacks make more money than wreckers?
A: In many markets, yes—because roadside contracts prefer rollbacks for safety reasons.
Q: How long does a rollback tow truck last?
A: With proper maintenance, 10–15 years or 300k–400k miles is common.
Conclusion
Buying a rollback tow truck for sale in 2025 can be one of the smartest moves for any towing operator. From light-duty Ford and Chevy rollbacks to heavy-duty Kenworth and Peterbilt rigs, the market offers a wide range of choices for every budget.
Prices range from $12,000 at auctions to $250,000 for new heavy-duty rollbacks, so whether you’re just starting out or upgrading a fleet, there’s a rollback to fit your business.
With their safety, versatility, and high demand, rollback tow trucks remain the gold standard of the U.S. towing industry.
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