When you see a compact tow truck rolling up beside a hefty 4WD or full-size SUV, it’s natural to wonder: Can that little truck really handle the job? It’s a fair question—and one that comes up often when people need roadside help or vehicle transport. Let’s unpack the truth about what small tow trucks can and can’t do when it comes to towing larger vehicles.
Size Isn’t Everything in Towing
Here’s the thing—tow truck size doesn’t always equal towing power. Modern tow trucks, even the smaller ones, are designed with powerful hydraulic systems, reinforced frames, and advanced towing gear. Depending on the model, a small tow truck can easily handle vehicles that weigh two or three times its own weight.
For example, a light-duty tow truck—often built on a chassis similar to an Isuzu NPR or Ford F-550—can typically tow vehicles weighing up to around 4.5 tonnes (10,000 pounds). That includes most mid-sized SUVs and even some larger 4WDs, provided they’re not overloaded with gear or towing a caravan at the time.
It Depends on the Type of Tow Truck
There isn’t just one kind of “small” tow truck. They come in different setups, and each one is suited for a specific type of job.
- Wheel-lift tow trucks use a metal yoke under the front or rear wheels to lift part of the vehicle off the ground. They’re great for short-distance towing of standard cars or lighter SUVs.
- Flatbed tow trucks, which carry the entire vehicle on a tray, are a better option for heavier SUVs or 4WDs because there’s no strain on the vehicle’s transmission or suspension.
- Integrated tow trucks are more heavy-duty and can manage larger vehicles like vans or even small trucks.
So, if you’ve got a Toyota LandCruiser stuck on a muddy track or a Ford Everest that won’t start in the driveway, a small flatbed tow truck might be all that’s needed.
Knowing the Vehicle’s Weight Makes All the Difference
Every tow truck has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)—basically, the maximum amount it can safely carry or tow. Likewise, every SUV or 4WD has its own curb weight.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Toyota RAV4: around 1.6 tonnes
- Nissan Patrol: around 2.7 tonnes
- Toyota LandCruiser 300: close to 2.8 tonnes
A well-equipped small tow truck with a 4.5-tonne towing capacity can handle these vehicles comfortably. But if you’re talking about a fully loaded 4WD with camping gear, roof racks, and accessories—then a medium-duty tow truck might be the safer bet.
Real-World Example
At our company, we once got a call from a customer whose Ford Ranger 4WD had broken down just outside the city. They were worried that our nearest available truck—a smaller flatbed—wouldn’t manage it. But with the right setup, secure tie-downs, and balanced positioning, the tow went smoothly. The key wasn’t the size of the truck; it was matching the right equipment to the job.
That’s the real secret of towing—it’s not about muscle alone, but about knowing your limits and using the right tools.
Safety Always Comes First
When it comes to towing heavier vehicles, safety is non-negotiable. A small tow truck can technically pull a large SUV, but if it’s not rated or equipped for that load, things can go wrong fast.
Professional tow operators always check:
- Vehicle weight and tow capacity
- Braking systems and wheel locks
- Hitch ratings and tie-down points
- Road gradient and terrain
If any of those factors are off, it’s better to send a larger tow truck than to risk damage to either vehicle—or the operator.
When a Small Tow Truck Is Enough (and When It’s Not)
A small tow truck is usually fine for:
- Compact and mid-size SUVs (like RAV4s or CX-5s)
- Standard 4WDs that aren’t heavily modified
- Urban or short-distance towing jobs
- But it might not be ideal for:
Lifted or modified 4WDs with off-road accessories - Fully loaded vehicles with trailers or campers
- Long-distance highway tows requiring higher stability
Knowing the difference helps both the driver and the tow operator make the safest and most cost-effective choice.
The Real Answer
So, can a small tow truck tow a large SUV or 4WD?
Yes—if it’s rated for the job, equipped correctly, and handled by a trained operator.
Modern tow trucks are surprisingly capable, but smart towing isn’t just about power—it’s about preparation, balance, and experience. Whether it’s a small flatbed rescuing a stuck Prado or a medium-duty rig hauling a LandCruiser back to the workshop, what really matters is that the tow is done safely, efficiently, and with care.
What This Means for You
If you ever find yourself stuck with a heavy vehicle, don’t stress about whether your tow truck will be big enough. Just call a reliable towing company and explain your vehicle type and situation. The right team will send a truck that fits the job—whether that’s a small but mighty unit or a larger heavy-duty rig.
In towing, size matters less than know-how—and that’s something a good operator always brings to the roadside.
If you are in Greenvale, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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