Tow Professional: Volume 14, Issue 4

BUILT TO TOW

BECAUSE THE WORK DEMANDS IT

Summer is Upon Us, Gear Up for Success! B

eing the Publisher of Tow Professional Magazine, I want to start this issue first by saying that I am deeply honored as I reflect on Tow Professional Magazine’s 14 plus years serving as a resource for the towing Industry. We are certainly proud to serve our men and women of this great industry and desire that every owner benefits from the knowledge and products written about in these pages. This recipe, combined with our devoted readers, has led to Tow Professional Magazine being ranking as # 1 in the industry in print & digital format! That’s huge! Our Tow Professional, “On the Go” podcast is now ranked # 1, and is the fastest growing podcast in the Towing Market with 22,000+ worldwide listeners per episode! We appreciate your readership and our vendors’ trust and loyalty to our brand!

In this issues installment of the “Good Neighbors Series,” Matt Fueston takes an in-depth look at Interstate towing, highlighting our tow professionals’ heart for service and love for community. DJ Harrington in this installment of “Fuel for Thought,” can’t hold in the excitement to be back at the # 1 family friendly show, Midwest Regional. This is the 47th anniversary, and we are going back to the beloved Great Wolf Lodge this year. Dan Messina, author of the book, Road Map to Success, reminds us that we are not alone in this industry.

Auctions, auction software, and the keys to being successful and raising the dollar amount per car have been a topic of interest for this industry. We look at winches, and the solutions Bimson Power/Warrior Winches have for our industry. Our friends at Zips bring us some of the latest products for roadside safety, and we look in on service and maintenance, keys to profitability as the busy season begins.

We also look at “Dispatching,” in this issue. Holly’s Towing Service explains how their service can give you free time back and relax your stress by leaving the dispatch to Holly Towing Service! In the Women in Towing series, Michelle Sukow explains about a towing icon, Marilyn Rogers who at 92 years young is an amazing and accomplished lady. Michelle goes in depth how decades ago Marilyn became part of this industry and is now the matriarch of the family business.

At the Tow Professional Magazine, we appreciate your readership, and pray for protection, heath and prosperity for you and your family! Until the next issue, stay tuned to our podcast “Tow Professional, “On the Go” and keep up with various companies and top products on our Facebook page for Tow Professional! Have a safe and blessed summer!

PUBLISHER

Darian Weaver President & Publisher darian@towprofessional.com

PRODUCTION

Sheila Maynard Editor

Derek Gaylard Creative Director derek@ryecroftcreative.com

Cody Webb

BLP Media & Design

Digital Director cody@blpmedia.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Sukow

Dan Messina

DJ Harrington

Matthew Fueston

Ron Sledge

Jim O’Hara

Greg Hinds

Jeremy Smith

Executive and Advertising Offices 1005 Mountain Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 Toll free: 888-802-8544 Fax: 205-978-1550

www.towprofessional.com

Tow Professional is published nine times a year by Over The Mountain Media, Inc., 1005 Mountain Trace, Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, USA. Tow Professional is distributed free to qualified subscribers. Non-qualified subscription rates are $57.00 per year in the U.S. and Canada and $84.00 per year for foreign subscribers (surface mail). U.S. Postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama and additional mailing offices. Tow Professional is distributed to qualified Towing & Recovery’s Top Decision Makers. Publisher is not liable for all content (including editorial and illustrations provided by advertisers) of advertisements published and does not accept responsibility for any claims made against the publisher. It is the advertiser’s or agency’s responsibility to obtain appropriate releases on any item or individuals pictured in an advertisement. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher.

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FROM

THE DESK OF BOB NELSON

Q2 2025 Industry Update for Jerr-Dan Dealers & Customers

As we move into the heart of 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the current state of the towing and recovery industry and share some updates on what we’re seeing across the country.

It’s tradeshow season, and we’re

seeing strong engagement at these events. The visitors coming through our booths aren’t just kicking tires—they’re buyers and ready to invest. That tells us there’s confidence out there, even if it’s cautious.

Towers are staying busy. Across much of the U.S., winter brought solid snowfall, fueling Q1 activity and keeping trucks on the road well into early Q2. As the saying goes, “when it snows, we tow,” and that was certainly the case for many of our partners this season.

We expected a slow start to the year, and that’s largely played out. But the forecast points to a ramp-up in the second half. With schools letting out for summer and families getting on the road for vacation, we anticipate a strong uptick in roadside demand this summer. Historically, June through August have been prime months for towing activity, and early indicators suggest this summer will follow that same trend. We predict that Q3 and Q4 could bring the momentum we’ve been waiting for.

Still, we know there are real challenges influencing buying behavior. Interest rates remain high, financing terms are stretching longer — some out

to 12 years — and insurance premiums continue to climb. Dealers are working hard to move 2024 inventory, but buyers are taking their time, weighing economic uncertainty and watching how things unfold with tariffs, chassis supply and recession chatter.

At Jerr-Dan, we’re staying focused on what we can control: Continuing to invest in product development and standing shoulder to shoulder with our dealers. This spring, we’re excited to launch a new attachment designed to expand operator capability, and later this year, we’ll be introducing a new truck that reflects our commitment to performance, safety and innovation. We remain optimistic about where the industry is headed. Demand is there. Work is out there. And when the market turns — and it will — we want our partners ready to capitalize. Thank you for your continued trust and for all you do to keep the towing world moving.

Wishing you a strong and successful Q2.

Bob Nelson Vice President & General Manager, Jerr-Dan

“At Jerr-Dan, we’re staying focused on what we can control: Continuing to invest in product development and standing shoulder to shoulder with our dealers. This spring, we’re excited to launch a new attachment designed to expand operator capability, and later this year, we’ll be introducing a new truck that reflects our commitment to performance, safety and innovation.”

NEW Preventing Roadside & Work Zone Deaths Act

TRAA is thrilled to share that the bipartisan Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Death Act (H.R.2992) has officially been introduced! Many of you will recall from past notices that TRAA has been working with Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02) since the original version of the Prevent Roadside Deaths Act was introduced in the last Congress. Even better news is that this new version explicitly includes “traffic incident responders” as a direct result of TRAA’s efforts. Additionally, the successful constituent meetings held by many of our members during TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day in February have also resulted in three Members of Congress agreeing to join Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA 2) as original cosponsors of this legislation –Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1), Rudy Yakym (R-IN 2), and Rob Bresnahan (R-PA 8).

If enacted, the Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Death Act would establish a coordinated effort under the U.S. Department of Transportation, including data collection initiatives, enhanced Slow Down, Move Over campaigns, and the creation of a task force to develop concrete strategies to save lives.

To continue building momentum and raise awareness, we’re asking TRAA members to contact their representatives and ask them to cosponsor H.R.2992.

PHOTO BY

What Makes a Medium-Duty Chassis Ideal for the Tow Industry?

In the tow and recovery industry, time, reliability, and comfort are more than preferences, they’re requirements. For fleet owners, operators, and drivers, the choice of a medium-duty truck chassis can make a measurable difference in daily efficiency, safety, and long-term profitability. Today’s top-performing chassis platforms offer more than just strength and power; they’re built around the real needs of the people who operate them.

Durability and Performance

At the core of every successful tow operation is a truck that can manage tough loads and long days. That begins with a strong frame. Many fleets look for chassis offering frame strength up to 80,000 PSI, ideal for heavy-duty upfitting like flatbeds and wheel lifts. A dependable powertrain is just as critical. Hino Trucks, for example, pairs a proven Cummins 6.7L diesel engine with an Allison 6-speed automatic transmission in all of its models, striking a balance between performance and efficiency. Hino offers an industry exclusive 5-year standard transmission warranty.

Driver-Centric Cab Design

The cab is more than a workspace, it’s where drivers spend most of their day. That’s why comfort, visibility, and accessibility matter. One area where

Hino clearly differentiates itself is in its wide, automotive-inspired cab design. The interior offers ergonomic seating, intuitive controls, and a layout that was designed with the driver in mind.

Over-the-hood visibility is another key consideration. Towing professionals often operate in high-traffic or roadside emergency conditions. A clear view of the road and surrounding vehicles not only improves safety, it also reduces driver fatigue. Hino’s cab design and low-profile hood contribute to best-inclass visibility, making it easier to see in tight or congested spaces.

Agility and Serviceability

A truck built for towing must be agile. Whether navigating narrow urban streets or backing into a tight recovery position, a 55-degree wheel cut allows for exceptional maneuverability. Hino offers one of the tightest turning angles in the industry.

Ease of maintenance is another overlooked but critical feature. Hino’s cab and hood design allows for quick engine access, simplifying driver pretrip inspections and saving technicians time during routine service. These small efficiencies add up over the life of a truck, reducing downtime and improving uptime.

Versatility and Peace of Mind

Tow fleets need options. Whether running a solo rollback or a full

fleet of recovery vehicles, chassis configurability is key. Medium-duty platforms like Hino’s L Series offer multiple wheelbases with standard and extended cab options, accommodating a variety of upfits without costly customizations.

Long-term dependability is also top of mind for owners. Hino supports its trucks with some of the most extensive standard warranties in the industry while also offering an array of extended chassis warranties out to 7 years/300,000 miles, a valuable consideration when evaluating total cost of ownership. These warranties give operators and business owners peace of mind, knowing they’re backed for the long haul.

A Platform Built for Purpose

When it comes to selecting a mediumduty truck chassis for towing, it’s not just about specs, it’s about how those specs translate into real-world performance. From a driver-focused cab and best-in-class turning radius to serviceability and strong OEM support, Hino Trucks has earned a reputation in the towing community for reliability and ease of use by providing The Ultimate Ownership Experience.

Ultimately, choosing the right chassis comes down to identifying the features that matter most to your operation, and making sure the truck you select is built to work as hard as you do.

ResQTrack and ResQTrack XL

Innovative Solutions for Vehicle Transportation

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of vehicle transportation, efficiency, safety, and innovation are key. ResQTrack emerges as a groundbreaking solution, catering to the needs of professionals and industries that require reliable and precise vehicle relocation. Whether used in emergency scenarios, industrial applications, or routine operations, ResQTrack represents a leap forward in vehicle mobility technology.

Overview of the ResQTrack

The ResQTrack vehicle mover is a highly versatile machine designed to assist in the seamless relocation of vehicles. ResQTrack offers capabilities from small cars to full size SUV’s and pick-ups, it is engineered to handle diverse weights and dimensions. The ResQTrack is powered by a gas or diesel engine and provides unparalleled ease of use, making it an obvious choice for automotive professionals.

Core Features

• Precision and Control: The ResQTrack is remote controlled and allows for precise movement of vehicles, making it ideal for tight spaces or challenging environments. Locations where standard wreckers or flatbeds are unable to reach.

• Adaptability: Its design accommodates various vehicle types and sizes, ensuring versatility

across multiple applications.

• Damage Free: ResQTrack allows for damage free operation, the only part of the vehicle that is touched is the surface of the tires, thus eliminating the risk of damage to vehicles.

The ResQTrack vehicle mover finds its utility across a wide range of scenarios and industries. Below are some of the key applications:

1. Emergency Response

In situations where vehicles need to be quickly relocated and responders are in a “hands off” transport, the ResQTrack delivers unparalleled efficiency. ResQTrack can place vehicles in a secured law enforcement facility without even rolling a wheel or touching the vehicle.

3. Parking Management

The ResQTrack vehicle mover is a game-changer for parking facilities where space is at a premium. It enables staff to optimize vehicle arrangement, ensuring efficient use of available space. Parking structures always pose a problem, ResQTrack eliminates these stressful multi-truck types of calls.

4. Breakdown Towing

Today’s technology in vehicles possesses a serious problem for the towing industry. Electronic Park brakes and electronic transmissions create problems for everyday towing. ResQTrack eliminates wasted time trying to release brakes or engage shift lock releases.

The adoption of the ResQTrack brings numerous advantages to its users:

• Time-Saving: Eliminates the need for multiple trucks and multiple drivers.

• Cost-Efficiency: By enhancing operational efficiency, ResQTrack helps save costs on labor and resources.

• Ease of Operation: Even with minimal training, operators can use the ResQTrack effectively, thanks to its intuitive controls.

• Return on Investment: Allows for 1 truck instead of time wasted, waiting for a support truck, which allows other trucks to be working other calls.

Maintenance

Maintaining the ResQTrack is straightforward, thanks to its robust design, routine maintenance ensures its long-term functionality.

Customer Support

Advanced Track Solutions offers comprehensive customer support, including:

• Technical assistance and troubleshooting.

• Access to replacement parts and upgrades.

• Training for new operators.

Conclusion

The ResQTrack represents a paradigm shift in vehicle relocation technology. Its innovative features, diverse applications,

and user-centric design make it an indispensable tool for professionals in the towing industry. As technology continues to advance, solutions like the ResQTrack pave the way for safer, more efficient, and sustainable practices in vehicle transportation.

For the towing industry, the ResQTrack stands out as a versatile and reliable addition to any fleet. It not only simplifies vehicle relocation but also inspires confidence in operators, ensuring that every task is completed with precision and care.

The ResQTrack is more than just a tool—it is a testament to what modern engineering and innovation can achieve.

Why Towing Companies Should Invest in an Umbrella Insurance Policy

Towers operate in a high-risk industry where accidents, property damage, and liability claims are common. While standard commercial auto and general liability policies offer essential protection, they often have limits that can be quickly exhausted in serious incidents. This is where an umbrella insurance policy becomes crucial.

An umbrella policy provides an extra layer of liability coverage that goes beyond the limits of the underlying insurance. For towing companies, this can mean the difference between staying in business and facing financial ruin after a costly claim or lawsuit.

Whether it’s a major traffic accident involving multiple vehicles or a claim of negligence resulting in significant property damage, umbrella insurance helps cover legal fees, settlements, and damages that exceed primary policy limits.

The nature of towing services— operating in unpredictable environments and handling valuable or damaged vehicles—exposes companies to heightened risks. An umbrella policy not only protects the company’s assets but also enhances credibility with clients who value businesses with strong risk management strategies.

In a litigious society where multi-

million-dollar claims are increasingly common, investing in an umbrella insurance policy is a smart, proactive move for towing companies seeking long-term security and peace of mind. Unfortunately, today’s plaintiff attorneys will not stop at a $1M auto or general liability policy limit but will also seek your company’s assets. The more assets you have in your company, the higher the umbrella limits you should consider to protect those assets.

TowMate Announces Key Product Enhancements in Celebration of 40th Anniversary

As TowMate celebrates its 40th year as a leading innovator in wireless tow lights and emergency lighting solutions, the company is proud to announce a series of product enhancements aimed at increasing durability, reliability, and user satisfaction.

In direct response to customer feedback and internal testing, TowMate has implemented notable upgrades across several core components, including:

• Wiring Harnesses – Upgraded with more efficient conductors, sealed connectors, terminal ends on wires going to the 7-way receptacle, and reinforced stress points to withstand the harshest environments.

• MDW Power Adapter – Redesigned with thicker material for improved grip strength and long-term durability. Now includes Velcro strap for extra battery security.

• LED Connections – Enhanced for greater consistency, brightness, and

ABOUT TOWMATE:

longevity, minimizing risk of failure due to vibration or corrosion.

“These updates reflect our ongoing commitment to quality and our customers,” said Chris Anderson, Executive Vice President of TowMate.

“We’ve built our name on trust, innovation, and listening to the people who use our products every day. As we mark 40 years in business, these refinements are part of our promise to keep getting better.”

TowMate has long been recognized for pioneering wireless lighting in the towing and recovery industry. With a deep commitment to American manufacturing and customer support,

Founded in 1985, TowMate manufactures high-performance wireless tow lights, emergency lighting systems, and safety solutions for the towing, construction, utility, and law enforcement industries. Based in Rogers, Arkansas, TowMate is proud to celebrate 40 years of American innovation and customer-driven improvement.

the company continues to lead the market with forward-thinking solutions such as Power-Link technology and the new HINVII LED lighting platform.

For more information on TowMate products and the latest enhancements, visit www.TowMate.com/dealers or call 800-680-4455.

Austin Hinds, Growing Again to Better Serve YOU!

First and foremost, I would like to thank God, without him, none of this would have been possible.

In 1973, my dad, Austin Hinds started this business as a salvage yard. Then in 1977, he became a Chevron Distributor via Creed Bird. At that time, a gentleman named Rick Fassnacht came knocking on his door. Rick was from the Jerr-Dan corporation. Little did we know that it would become a friendship that would last a lifetime. Austin started selling tons of carriers throughout the years, becoming one of the largest dealers in the southeast. The year 1986 was a special year for a couple of reasons. First, it was the year Danny Wright started mounting units for Dad. Danny is still doing installs to this day. And secondly, we became a Vulcan distributor.

With that being said, fast forward to Miller Industries. I was still a kid when the purchase of Vulcan and Chevron was made. I never dreamed that they would ultimately become some of the best friends that I would ever make. I remember a small plane landing in Guntersville, picking up Will Miller and spending a few hours together in Arab. It was the beginning of building a “brother-like friendship” with Will, Vince Tiano, Billy Drane, and Kipp Felice.

Since then, we have had the opportunity to offer the full catalog of Miller’s products and have had great success. We have been selected as a President Club Distributor for them

several times over the years. I speak for the whole team when I say that we are blessed to sell the greatest products by the greatest manufacturer.

In closing, I want to thank the following people:

Austin Hinds for getting us to the position to be one of the largest towing equipment dealers in the USA. Aneitra for her endless quest of keeping me grounded (talking sense into me).

My business partners, Amy & Vince Glassco, for keeping everyone paid and me not having to worry about that end of the business. Bradley, thank you for running the day-to-day business and keeping the fire stoked! Dalton and Taylor, thank you for keeping

the customers’ needs met with parts and supplies, when they are in need. Trevor and his teammates in this new installation department. Last but not least, thank you to Danny and James for their infinite wisdom in installing and repairing! Thank you to our loyal customers who have continued to bless us with the opportunity to serve them. –Greg Hinds

Continuing with growth, we are happy to announce our upcoming Louisiana Location managed by Paul and Courtney Russell. The new facility is located at 44546 S. Airport Rd, Suite H, Hammond, LA 70404.

AHM doesn’t want to be the biggest….we want to be the BEST!

First build

Lighting the Way: Advanced Scene Solutions for Tow Operators

When every second counts on a dark roadside, Will-Burt delivers the visibility tow operators need to stay safe and efficient. Our Night Scan® HDT light towers deploy in seconds, illuminating the entire scene from above with 360° tilt-adjustable lighting controlled by push-button or wireless remote. This overhead lighting eliminates glare, frees your hands, and warns oncoming traffic—enhancing safety while allowing full focus on the recovery. For additional support, FRC (Fire Research Corp.) scene lighting offers rugged, high-intensity solutions trusted by emergency professionals across the country.

Complementing our tower systems, NightSearcher portable lights provide rugged, rechargeable illumination for quick setups in harsh conditions, while Pi-Lit® Smart Sequential Flares guide traffic safely around curves, hills, or accident scenes with automatic syncing and DOT-compliant visibility. Whether mounted on your truck or carried in your gear bag, Will-Burt’s comprehensive lighting solutions ensure you’re prepared for any scene—anytime, anywhere.

BY MICHELLE SUKOW ///

Towing the Line and Leaving a Legacy: Marilyn Rogers

“On the Brink of a Great Career – Who’ll Push Me Off?”

Marilyn Rogers might not have known just how spot-on her husband Dewey’s high school yearbook caption would be, but life sure had a way of making it true. From small-town high school sweethearts to towing industry pioneers, Marilyn and Dewey carved out a legacy in towing, proving that resilience, family, and a bit of Wisconsin grit can build an empire.

From Gas Pumps to Tow Trucks: The Start of Something Big

It was 1955. Marilyn and Dewey were just 22 years old when they took a leap of faith and leased a Mobil gas station in South Beloit. The plan? Temporary. Dewey had his sights set on becoming a pharmacist, but life had other ideas. The country was in a recession, and with a little one at home, they had to make the practical choice, and one that ended up shaping the rest of their lives.

New Year’s Eve 1957, a blizzard swept through the area. That night, tragedy struck when a local tow truck driver lost his life while winching a car out of the ditch. The police chief approached Dewey, asking him to purchase the company from the driver’s widow.

He even offered to help finance the deal because the area needed a towing service…and fast.

By January 7, 1958, Marilyn and Dewey officially owned their first tow truck. It was a 1956 Chevrolet pre-war Holmes W-35 Heavy Duty Wrecker. The same truck involved in the tragic accident that changed their path now became the foundation of Dewey’s Service Inc.

A Family Business in Every Sense

Marilyn made it clear. The employees from the previous owner would keep driving the truck, but Dewey needed to stay at the gas station. Having a young child at home and witnessing firsthand the dangers of the job, she was determined not to become a widow herself. But, as anyone who has ever been in towing knows, plans and reality do not always align. Dewey wasn’t one to sit on the sidelines either, and before long, he was out running calls right alongside the crew.

As the years rolled by, towing became a full-on family affair. Marilyn’s sister, Gladys, stepped in to help with the kids and the bookkeeping. Her mom lived close to the school, so the kids always had a safe place to go. Marilyn did it

all- dispatching, bookkeeping, running the gas station counter, and even hopping behind the wheel when duty called. Marilyn wasn’t just balancing work and home, she was integrating them.

In 1967, Marilyn and Dewey attended the first-ever Wisconsin Towing Association (WTA) meeting. It was a smoke-filled room of men and not another woman was in sight. They arrived 15 minutes late, and Dewey, refusing to stay, turned right back around. However, at the second meeting, Marilyn was prepared. She grabbed their daughter, Jean from the car and marched right in. Dewey had no choice but to follow. Decades later, Jean would become the second-ever female president of the WTA - a full-circle moment! That is something that still makes Marilyn smile today. It was not always easy for women in towing, and Marilyn fought for years to get the ladies their own space at industry events. When the WTA finally set up a Ladies’ Luncheon at the annual convention, she knew that progress was being made.

The Highs and Lows of the Towing Life

Marilyn wore a lot of hats, but she was never afraid to roll up her sleeves

and get to work. One Easter morning, eight months pregnant and dressed in her Sunday best, she had to jump in a truck to help on a call, heels and all. And when Dewey needed backup on long hauls, Marilyn would drive while he slept, waking him up when they hit a city so he could take over.

But the road was not always smooth. Marilyn recalls some of the toughest times:

• The Break-In – After towing a car involved in an arrest, the suspects stole Marilyn’s purse. They broke into their home not once, but twice, and the second time, they tied up the whole family. Thinking fast, Marilyn told them the police were expecting them on a call. If they didn’t show up, officers would come looking. That was enough to scare them off, and the police caught them soon after.

• A Roadside Tragedy – In the 1980s, her son-in-law Gary and driver Doug were hit while working on the side of the road. Both survived, but Doug suffered severe burns. To this day, Gary carries the mental scars from that accident.

A Legacy That Lives On

Today, at 92, Marilyn may not be in the shop every day, but she is still the matriarch, keeping the business and family together. She lives in a fourgeneration household with her daughter, Jean, son-in-law Gary, granddaughter Johanna, and her great-granddaughters who keep her on her toes. The business has grown from a single truck to a fleet of ten, and employees are not just employees, because they are family, whether they share her last name or not. Marilyn may not have had role models in the industry when she started, but she and Dewey built something bigger than themselves…a legacy of resilience, innovation, and family-first values. They turned a gas station lease into a multi-generational business, proving that success is not just about having a plan, it is about the grit needed to roll with life’s unexpected detours. Over time, the WTA and the towing community became her extended family, offering support and friendship through the ups and downs of this wild industry. Marilyn is proud of the business she and Dewey built brick by

brick, mile by mile.

If there is one thing Marilyn’s story proves, it is that the greatest careers don’t always come from a plan. Sometimes, they come from picking up the phone and answering the call. Literally! Seven decades, countless stories, and an unwavering commitment to the towing industry, Marilyn and Dewey didn’t just build a business. They built a legacy that continues to grow.

Do you know a towing lady who deserves recognition?

Please send Michelle Sukow or Tow Professional a message. We would love to share her story! (michelle@michellesukow.com)

BY DAN MESSINA ///

You’re Not

Alone

I LOOK BACK AT MY CAREER IN TOWING AND REALIZED THAT I HAVE ACCOMPLISHED A LOT. I’ve had the opportunity to write articles for Tow Times, American Towman Magazine, and Tow Professional Magazine for the past 11 years. At a variety of trade shows, I held seminars and trained hundreds of towers in how to be successful in private property towing. With those successes, I put them in a book that shows all the steps I took to be successful.

In 2009, I started one of the largest towing associations in the U.S. (Southwest Tow Operators, in Texas) which runs annually on a budget of $200,000. In 2009, American Towman Magazines awarded me Towman of the Year and I made the cover of their magazine. I was able to sell my business after just 7 years and had 2 bidders fighting for my company. At that point, I decided to retire, but I was quick to realize that retiring was not for me.

Dan Messina

INSIGHTFULTALK

BY DAN MESSINA ///

I wanted to continue to help owners with their business, so I started TowTrax, a phone app that gets towers the tows that they never had before. It’s a multimillion-dollar business and has two dozen tow companies holding part ownership in the business. If you are interested in buying ownerships in TowTrax, give me a call.

As my staff runs TowTrax, I want to continue to work in the industry, so I’m starting another business that gives me the opportunity to work directly with you and help you grow your business. I want to work with you as a consultant and offer all my knowledge to you. I developed a website which is loaded with videos that show step-by-step all the parts to starting a successful business. You can post questions you might have, decisions you are about to make, needing help, or problems you are facing, and you need an outside opinion.

You pay an annual fee of $75 and get me for the year. I also have a team

of professionals that work with me and are excited to offer help to your growing business. These guys are retired businessmen who have faced the

40 improvements, upgrades, and

problems or obstacles you face in your day-to-day business and will help you overcome them.

Here is what my team can offer you in your business.

1. Problem solving

• Identify inefficiencies, weaknesses, or challenges

• Provide customer strategies

2. Special Expertise

• Brings knowledge the client does not have in-house. Things like finance operations, marketing, technology, legal compliance.

• Advice based on real world experience and proven methods.

3. Business Growth

• Help increase revenue, improve profit margins, and expand markets. Offer guidance on branding business, advertising, pricing, and scaling the business.

Machined in-house as a single piece, making them stronger, higher precision, and more resistant to going out of alignment, resulting in longer bearing life.

G7 dolly spindles

With

enhancements, the Collins G7 Hi-Speed® Dolly is our seventh and best dolly yet.

• Implement systems for on-going improvement with municipal, consumer, and private calls.

4. Training and Development

• Training employees, managers, or owners in best practices, leadership, or technical skills.

• Improve systems for on-going improvement. We can recommend driver certifications, safety, and professionalism

• We can help coach owners with leadership, hiring, and team building. Help staff with call handling, invoicing, and customer service.

5. Operational Improvements

• Streamline workflows, cutting waste, or reducing cost, we can identify issues with dispatching, response time, or driver turnover.

• Improve customer service, dispatching software can also help you with customer complaints, or truck

downtime, re-use, or internal processes. We have expertise in working with the police, motor clubs, and municipalities. We can help you face insurance problems and DOP compliance. Help you streamline GPS and call intake. Recommend software to track trucks, jobs, and payments. We can give you ideas to cut fuel waste, downtime, and unproductive labor hours.

6. Strategic Planning

• Build business plans, marketing strategies, and investor pitching

• Help set and track goals for growth, exit planning, or investment. We can help boost cash flow through better pricing and billing processes. If you are looking to open a second location or sell the business, I have done it all. I offer a fresh set of eyes to help you evaluate your pricing, your employee performance, and customer experience. I can help you spot the weaknesses or missed opportunities your competitors

are taking advantage of.

7. Outside Perspective

• Provide feedback, unbiased feedback,

• See blind spots that owners or staff may overlook

When you read this article, you might take it as an advertisement for my new company. I assure you all the information in the article are things I addressed when I ran my business. I joined a group of business owners that got together and helped each other with our business problems. I was the only tow company listed in the group, and there were 10 of us. It was very helpful because I did not have to handle things myself.

I paid $500 a month, and it was worth every penny. I am offering you my services for an annual fee of $75 a year. If interested call me at 469-774-0340, text me at this number, or send me an email (dan@towtrax.com).

BY D.J. HARRINGTON CSP ///

YOU GOT IT! We are back at the Great Wolf Lodge in Mason, Ohio. Mark your calendar right now while you are reading this article in the number one magazine for Towing and Recovery industry. Additionally, mark it for September 25th-28th, 2025. For so many years, the towing companies, all throughout Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia, packed the Great Wolf Lodge for the best family tow show of the year.

FUEL4THcGHT

BY D.J. HARRINGTON CSP ///

The event is called the Midwest Regional Tow Show. Do yourself a favor. Don’t miss this great time at a spectacular location. Your children

will thank you for bringing them to the most family-friendly show of the year. Children are entertained on Friday and Saturday evenings, allowing parents to

attend the show events.

The women of TRAO host a luncheon, featuring a Safety, Fashion Show with new apparel complete with male “models”. I was one of them two years ago, known to readers as the “Love Doctor”. Yes, I did strut down the runway while showcasing new apparel, and with style, I might add!

For learning instruction, there will be

Wichert Insurance is one of the largest tow agencies in the Midwest with over 30 years of experience working with towing, recovery, and garage operations. Our knowledgeable staff are current on industry issues and are experts in the coverages your operation requires. Our relationships with multiple AM Best “A - Excellent” rated carriers allow us to offer competitive rates and interest-free monthly pay plans. As active members of state associations, we are industry advocates and a reliable resource.

Our team’s experience allows us to create custom programs to meet your needs. From service trucks to extra heavy equipment, single location to multi-state operations, we will craft a program to meet your risk appetite at the most competitive rates. In addition, we act as your advocate when a claim occurs to ensure timely and fair outcomes.

We offer in-house loss control specialists at no additional cost to identify ways to control and reduce risks. Clients who engage in our loss control and safety programs benefit from lower insurance premiums, increased profitability, and reduced accidents, injuries, and claims.

See more at www.wichert.com or contact us today at 740-654-0532

plenty of seminars. Yes, there is no cost to go to a class while at the Great Wolf Lodge for one of the best tow shows of the year.

The most attended part of this show is held on Thursday night. It starts at 5:30p. It is called “Celebration of Life”/ Slow Down, Move Over Event with a full-scale parade. I participated last year. I was honoring Linda Unruh’s son, Bobby who was killed on the roadside helping a tractor trailer out of a ditch.

Now, let me spend a few moments about the reason I like this show much more than other shows. Yes, it is the most family-friendly tow show of the year. I will certainly give it that. Here’s another reason I prefer this show. On Friday night, you will find me at the Injured Driver’s Fund Auction. There is plenty of food, drinks, music and a cash bar at this event. I will be bringing some items for the auction. All the proceeds go straight to the Injured Driver’s Fund. The live auctioneer makes it fun and very entertaining. All the items line the walls of this big room which have been donated by fellow towers, and vendors attending this show. So, bring one or two items to auction off for this great cause. Additionally, after this event, you can join in a poker tournament.

Ok, Women! Saturday is for you. At 12:00pm, the TRAO puts on the Women’s Luncheon. Get your tickets for $20.00 at the WTRAO booth located in the main conference area. A reminder though, dress in your best Western attire. Best dressed wins an award. Every night is “Lil Towers Night”. One night they do a camping event while Saturday night is

movie night and a pajama party.

For all adults, every night is karaoke night. In Ohio, they have “the karaoke singers”. It is fun to watch everyone take the stage, and they have a great time. There are always people there that will sing along with you. Last year, I did the Blues Brothers rendition of “I’m a Tow Man” with Chuck Camps

band from the Great State of Georgia. We had towers from lots of other states, a bunch from Florida were there too. So, go to their web page at www. MidwestTowShow.org or call Bruce Bender at 513-791-7555 if you want a booth or to make reservations.

Until September 25th, I’ll see you on the next podcast.

Survivor Fund Golf Classic Raises Over $35,000

The 17th Annual Survivor Fund Golf Classic raised an impressive $35,018.76 to support the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum’s Survivor Fund, thanks to the generosity of sponsors, players, and other supporters.

Held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, in conjunction with the Florida Tow Show®, the tournament saw a strong turnout of 120 participants, along with a large list of sponsors and

volunteers. Perfect weather made for a memorable day of golf at Celebration Golf Club.

“This year’s event was especially meaningful, as we celebrated the Survivor Fund’s 20th anniversary,” said Jeffrey Godwin, co-chairman of the Survivor Fund. “Not only did we reach this incredible milestone, but we also set a new record for funds raised, a testament to the dedication of everyone involved.”

Each year, more than 60 roadside professionals tragically lose their lives

while assisting stranded motorists on dangerous highways. The Survivor Fund provides vital financial support to the families of these fallen heroes, ensuring they receive assistance during their time of greatest need.

“The ongoing support from the industry, through events like the Golf Classic, has been invaluable,” Godwin continued. “It has allowed the Fund to significantly increase its support to the families of those who have given their lives in service to others.”

ABOUT THE SURVIVOR FUND:

The Survivor Fund, managed by the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum in Chattanooga, TN, was established in 2006 to provide financial assistance to families who have lost a loved one while working in the towing and recovery industry. Since its inception, the Fund has helped hundreds of families through these tragic losses. To learn more, visit: https://towingmuseum.com/survivor-fund

INTERSTATE TOWING IT’S ALL ABOUT BALANCE

BY MATTHEW C. FUESTON

What Yelp or Google review would you give your neighbor?

Four stars for a pretty good neighbor, maybe five for a perfect neighbor? What criteria would you use? No one wants to live next to anyone who is extreme in any way. A predatory tower is pretty extreme, at the negative end of the scale. But what about—well, what about Interstate Towing of Chicopee, Massachusetts? Before you can decide, you need to read its story...

STARTING OUT— AND GETTING OUT

Interstate Towing, owned and operated by Jeremy Procon, is based in Chicopee, Massachusetts, near the intersection of Interstates 90 and 91. This crossroads location, together with hard and smart work, have made Interstate Towing a success. However, Procon’s story is not the typical story, the “I got a job in towing and loved it and later started my own company” story. It is a version of that, but as seen through a carnival funhouse mirror.

When he was still in high school, Procon worked at a carwash and had a night job delivering pizza. He remembers his wage at the time was $4.10 an hour. When a friend who was working at a local towing company said that jobs there paid $8.00 an hour, and that they were a man short,

Procon jumped at the chance to make more money. He learned the business while he worked at this job, but that knowledge came with a price-tag attached.

The owner was a mean, mean man. I have no qualms about saying that about him because he was a bad person through and through. He abused everyone he came in contact with, and that certainly included me and the other employees. I was young, I didn’t know any better, and for the longest time I just thought that this was how bosses acted. So, I stayed there longer than I should have…about four years longer. I am not exaggerating when I say that this was a typical abusive relationship.

Procon eventually decided to do a bit of moonlighting on the side. He bought a 1988 Ford F450 with a flatbed on it and went to work for himself in the

evenings while keeping his day job. He still hadn’t realized that he could just quit and get out of a bad situation. However, as might be clear to those on the outside, his moonlighting was bound to run afoul of his abusive boss at some point, and it finally did in the evening when his girlfriend had a flat tire.

She had just completed her shift at Chili’s when she saw that her tire was flat. She called her boyfriend, and he had a solution. Knowing that her tire wasn’t worth patching up, he drove over to his employer’s yard to find a tire on a car that was staged to be junked. It was common practice, and one of the few perks of his job, maybe the only perk that employees were welcome to take whatever they wanted from cars marked to be junked. So, he found a tire on one of those cars and used it to replace his girlfriend’s ruined tire. Iit is important to remember that, since all of this happened in the evening that he was driving his Ford flatbed.

The next morning his boss called him into the office, accused him of stealing a tire as well as stealing his customers, and then fired him. It was the very best thing that could have happened to Procon. He now had to make a living with his truck. The story didn’t stop there, though.

The abusive ex-boss smeared Procon’s name all over town, and then became a city councilor, with the power to really hurt his ex-employee. However, you cannot treat people badly your entire life in a small town and expect no one to notice. His smear campaign actually helped Procon by raising his profile. In fact, Procon ended up acquiring the city contract that his old boss originally had on the rotation just shortly after his former boss went out of business.

“One of the lessons that this experience taught me was the importance of reputation to your success. You can have a business with your name on it, and make out okay, even become an elected official but that doesn’t mean that you are respected or that you will be a real success. Reputation has always been central to my business philosophy ever since.”

THREE PHASES OF EXPLOSIVE GROWTH

That one truck led to 2 and 2 led to 4, and 4 led to 12 and then 26. Interstate Towing currently has almost 100 vehicles in its fleet, including five rotators. It employs 84 people.

“We grew in increments,” Procon says. “We’ve enjoyed three

distinct phases of growth since our incorporation in 1999. The first phase was from ’99 to about 2003 or 2005. We were in a small facility here in town, working out of a rented garage.”

Procon then bought his first property at 1660 Westover Road, still his HQ today. In 2005, he built a large yard there to accommodate the local police department clients he was just starting to secure. The period from that year, 2005 to 2017 was Interstate Towing’s second phase of growth as its municipal workload exploded.

“We purchased our second large facility in Westfield, about 30 miles to the west of us,” Procon remembered. “There had been a towing company there that suddenly went out of business when the owner retired. The building, the lot, the yard, it was beautiful, just perfect for us.”

Procon says that Interstate Towing’s third growth phase began in 2018 and as of 2025 is still ongoing. In 2018, Interstate bought a medium size towing company in Sturbridge located about 30 miles to the east of Chicopee. Procon’s interest was piqued when he realized that this location was another intersection of two great interstates, I-90 and I-84. They built a new facility at the site of the previous tower’s yard just down the road, bringing Interstate Towing’s number up to three, each of which is equipped with a state-ofthe-art dispatch center that would be the envy of many law enforcement dispatch centers.

Jeremy Procon, Interstate Towing, Owner and Operator

GOOD NEIGHBOR

Reflecting on these three unique periods of growth, Procon shares an important lesson. “Even though we took advantage of some opportunities, I learned that you can’t say no to everything, and you can’t say yes to everything. You have to find a balance.

NAMING THE COMPANY, NAILING DOWN THE COMPANY SLOGAN

Even the name of Jeremy Procon’s company has a great story behind it.

“Interstate Towing seems like a logical choice because of the importance interstates have played in our success,” Procon says. “But it goes back to my first job. I learned a lot from that experience, and one thing I learned is what not to do. I ask myself, what would that guy have done? Then I do the opposite. It’s almost foolproof. And way back when I was trying to come up with a name for the company, in March 1999, I was influenced by the fact that his company was named after him. That’s pretty normal. Joe’s Towing, Smith Towing, whatever. It is a great way to name a company without worrying about trademark issues. When it came to my own company, I wanted to do the opposite of what my first employer did. I actually went with the most neutral name I could think of—not a good idea from a branding viewpoint. However, it was a gut-level decision.” It’s worked out.

“Actually, rather than the name of the company, what I am most proud

of is our slogan. ‘Only the Sky Covers New England Better.’® And that I did trademark, years ago. Every now and then I run across someone who has the same slogan, just substituting their own geographical area. When I do, my lawyer sends them a letter. I’ve won every case so far. I don’t see that changing.”

MAKING PEOPLE HAPPY WHO AREN’T HAPPY TO SEE YOU

Procon makes a point that is one of the obvious but sometimes ignored sorts. “You know, 50% of our business is people who are always glad to see us, our accounts. Their customers are happy to see us because their car is going to get fixed. The other 50% of our work is non consensual. That’s a harsh term, but I use it on purpose. These people didn’t ask for our services, they didn’t call us. They’re unregistered, they’ve been arrested for

OUI (operating under the influence), they were in a crash.”

“So obviously, we’re back to balance. How do you run such a contentious business and still be successful? You’re going to impound the car of the Chief’s niece, your neighbor’s son, and a bunch of other possibilities, all of which I’ve seen.”

Procon is quick to point out the answer.

“You have to find the balance. We have to keep the people who don’t want to be here happy, we have to treat them with compassion. Unlike my early years of work for another company I want those people to have a good experience. The first place everybody goes, whether they’ve been arrested or were in a crash and just got out of the hospital, is wherever their car is. They come for their wallet, their cell phone charger, their car of course. Emotions are already running high. So, we try to make the process easy. A uniformed, backgroundchecked employee hands you an empty box so you can get your stuff out of your car. I make sure our team remembers the Golden Rule. I want those people to be treated with respect, a little bit of dignity.”

“That’s just good customer service, right? But I want to bring good customer service to the people who don’t want to be here.”

Interstate Towing has 7,493 Google reviews. They have a 4.8 average which is hard to fathom of any business, let alone a towing and recovery service. According to Procon, it’s all about balance.

GIVING BACK IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY

And when it comes to balancing one important thing against another, Procon obviously believes that his customer service philosophy is just one part of a comprehensive, balanced success formula. Giving back to the community is also key.

“Serving the community is part of our culture here, but that has to include giving back. From a business owner’s perspective if you think you can live in a 30 to 40 mile radius of where we are and do business with the community, you’d better be prepared to give back to it. You can’t skip out on your community responsibilities and expect to be successful. You have to be on board.. You have to give to the organizations that need support, Chambers of Commerce, for example. Community events? You have to attend them.”

“I try to follow my own advice,” Procon says with a laugh. “I try to make every fundraiser, every event. I’m going to a gala tonight. I’d better get going if I’m going to be on time.”

Matthew C. Fueston is a writer and editor in the B2B space who has been writing for 15 years about “big iron” equipment, and the men and women who rely on it. He covers “hard hat” industries, and from towing and recovery to construction, underground utility infrastructure, mining, and drilling, he puts the story of the real people in the field first and foremost. More information at www.fuestonassoc.com.

The answer seems pretty clear—Interstate Towing and its owner are good neighbors. Who gets a 4.8 star average out of nearly 7,500 Google reviews? Normally, neighborliness can’t be quantified, but this might be an exception.

Of course, the towing fraternity never doubted that Jeremy was a good neighbor. However, the message needs to go beyond the fraternity. Share this article with your neighbor, the one who owns the hardware store. Or the school principal. Or the sheriff. Toss the magazine, turned to this page, on the breakroom table at the local supermarket. It’s not the whole answer, but it’s a start.

INGENUITY WITH AND A DEDICATION TO CUSTOMER SERVICE!

Power Meets Precision:

Warrior Winches Deliver for North America’s Towing Professionals WINCHES &

In the towing and recovery business, there’s no room for compromise.

Every job, whether it’s a roadside assist or a full-scale vehicle extraction, depends on reliable gear that performs under pressure. That’s exactly why more North American tow professionals are turning to Warrior Winches—a name synonymous with rugged engineering, high pulling power, and real-world dependability.

While Warrior is already well-known for its consumer-grade Samurai Series, it’s the company’s Industrial Winch Range that’s quickly gaining ground with serious recovery operators across North America. Designed from the ground up for high-duty cycles and extreme working conditions, these winches are purpose-built to support heavy recovery vehicles, rotators, and utility fleets working in the harshest environments.

Take the T1000 Series, for example.

Compact yet powerful, this industrial electric winch range delivers up to 25,000 pounds of pulling force in a streamlined package ideal for emergency vehicles, utility trucks, and lightweight recovery rigs. For applications that demand more sustained pulling under load, Warrior offers the hydraulic RV Series, engineered for continuous use and extended durability—perfect for tow fleets that operate around the clock. Speed and control are the hallmarks of the YP Series, a favorite among operators performing fast-response work where time and precision are critical. These winches are known for their extended drum to fit longer length rope and their efficient gearing and high line speeds, which help operators complete jobs faster, without sacrificing safety. For tow companies with a diverse range of vehicles, the NH Series offers a flexible solution. It’s a “go-to” choice

for recovery professionals who want consistency across different platforms without losing performance. At the top end of the industrial lineup, the JR Series stands out as a true workhorse.

Engineered for the most demanding applications and to meet SAEJ-706 Standard, this winch features heavyduty planetary gearing, air and manual clutch operation, and the ability to operate under extreme environmental stress. It’s the winch of choice for industrial rotators and serious “offroad” recovery builds.

Just as critical as the winch itself is the line you pull with, and Warrior has addressed this with its Armortek synthetic rope, a modern alternative to traditional steel cable. Armortek is made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), offering equivalent strength to steel at a fraction of the weight. It’s safer, too; unlike steel, synthetic rope doesn’t store

10RVSHY

18RVAHY

25JR03H

30JR03H

dangerous amounts of kinetic energy, reducing the risk of injury if it breaks under load. With UV resistance, low stretch, and abrasion-resistant coatings, Armortek is built to handle mud, snow, heat, and whatever else the job throws at it. It does all of that while making line handling significantly easier and faster for the operator.

Beyond equipment, Warrior’s commitment to the towing industry runs deep. The company is a proud supporter of the International Towing Museum’s Survivor Fund, which provides financial assistance to the families of fallen

towing operators. It’s one way Warrior shows that its investment in this industry goes far beyond product development.

“We design equipment with realworld recovery in mind—because in this business, there’s no margin for failure,” says Bryan Johnson, VP Sales and Marketing of Warrior Winches.

“We’re honoured to support the men and women who keep America moving, and we’re committed to helping them do their jobs safely and efficiently.”

Tow professionals looking to get

hands-on with Warrior’s lineup can visit their booth at the upcoming American Tow Xpo in Fort Worth, Texas. On display will be their industrial winch series, Armortek rope, and the latest accessories designed specifically for the North American market.

To learn more, request a catalogue, or find a local distributor, please visit www.warriorwinches.com.

Trusted by Professionals, Built for Everyone!

T225S12

T225A12

WINCHES & ACCESSORIES

RimSling Synthetic Winch Lines

For a safer, more advanced alternative to traditional steel winch lines, consider the RimSling Synthetic Winch Line— strength-tested and field-proven for demanding recovery operations. Constructed from 12 strands of high-performance HMPE fiber in a single-braid design, this line resists fraying and minimizes the risk of accidental cuts and operator strain. Its torque-free construction ensures that, in the rare event of failure, the line falls harmlessly to the ground rather than recoiling dangerously. Ideal for towing, recovery and emergency response applications.

Learn more or purchase at www.Zips.com

ITI Pocket Plug Container Skate

Insert the Pocket Plug Container Skate from ITI and reduce the effort required to relocate your next shipping container across the lot or across town. Available today from Zip’s AW Direct, this skate features a raised plug that fits snugly into the oblong pocket on each corner of a container. The skate’s rounded end eases the transition over uneven terrain, and the slick exterior reduces friction. For even more security, add a quarter-turn locking tab to make sure the skate stays put over potholes, cracks and other surface imperfections.

Order Item # ITI-PPCS at www.Zips.com

The Firebox

Exclusively distributed by Zip’s AW Direct, the Firebox is a portable, steel structure tow companies and storage lots can use to protect their property from fire risks associated with accident-damaged EVs and conventional vehicles. Once filled with water to the proper level, the watertight container can control thermal runaway on EVs and minimize risk to other susceptible vehicles parked inside its sealed walls. This highly profitable unit eliminates the need for a buffer zone in congested lots and increases revenue to your bottom line by providing a specialized service to your community.

Learn more at www.Zips.com

Enter Item # FIREBOX

TOPDON Mini Handheld Thermal Imaging

Give yourself X-ray vision with the TOPDON TC004 Mini thermal imaging camera from Zip’s AW Direct. Perfect for beginners, this handheld, compact performer can help you troubleshoot HVAC issues, detect thermal runaway on electrical vehicles or pinpoint hotspots inside a wall. The TC004 Mini provides quick and reliable diagnostics, all from the palm of your hand. This rechargeable, battery-powered camera is packed with features and uses advanced TISR image enhancement technology to produce crisp, detailed thermal images. Fully charged, the TC004 Mini provides up to 15 hours of runtime, allowing you to handle more tasks without frequent recharging.

Order Item # TC004 MINI today at www.Zips.com

Keep tow operators safe all year long.

June is National Safety Month, but as you know, tow operator safety takes a year-round commitment. Make sure you keep your crew safe by directing traffic away from any roadside recovery scene. Install a three-in-one Traffic Commander, and you'll create a safe space for everyone all year long. See how it works below or scan the QR code below for more information.

TOWING DISPATCH

WHY TOWING PROFESSIONALS ACROSS NORTH AMERICA TRUST

HOLLY’S TOWING DISPATCH

If you’re a towing and recovery business still relying on a generic answering service to handle your after-hours and weekend calls, it’s time to ask yourself: how’s that really working for you? Are those operators truly familiar with the urgent nature of police dispatches, motor club response times, or the consequences of missing just one critical call?

In the towing industry, timing is everything. Whether it’s securing a

high-value police rotation, maintaining top-tier motor club ratings, or ensuring your drivers are dispatched quickly and efficiently, there is zero margin for error. Yet, many traditional answering services lump towing companies in with doctors, landlords, plumbers, and every other profession under the sun.

That’s exactly why you need Holly’s Towing Dispatch, the dispatch service designed exclusively for the towing and recovery industry.

Built for Towers, by Tower Advocates

Years ago, we recognized that towing professionals needed a dedicated solution. Generic answering services simply don’t understand the nuances of this field, like what it means to lose a police contract because of a missed call, or how dispatch delays can impact both your revenue and reputation.

At Holly’s Towing Dispatch, towing isn’t just one of the industries

we serve, it’s the only industry we serve. We operate 24/7/365, training every dispatcher to understand the unique needs and rhythms of towing

companies. We don’t answer calls for dental offices, HVAC techs, or realtors. Just towers. That focus is what sets us apart and what keeps our clients loyal.

“At Holly’s Towing Dispatch, towing isn’t just one of the industries we serve, it’s the only industry we serve.”

Real Relief for Real Problems

Not everyone uses an answering service, and we get that. In fact, most towing company owners start by forwarding after-hours calls to their own cell phones or directly to a driver. But eventually, reality hits. The stress of

TOWING DISPATCH

missing holidays. The exhaustion from midnight calls. The financial pain of missed opportunities or drivers cherrypicking jobs. That’s when they call us.

Our service becomes your relief. Whether you need full time off-site dispatch, just weekends covered, or even just one night a week to get some sleep, Holly’s Towing Dispatch is there. We work how you need us to and we’re ready when you are.

Customized to Fit Your Operation

One of the most common concerns we hear from new customers is the fear of “giving up the phones.” That’s completely understandable. You’ve built your business from the ground up. Whether it’s been one year or forty, handing off your calls can feel like giving up control.

That’s why we don’t offer a onesize-fits-all service. Every account with Holly’s Towing Dispatch is completely

customized to your operation. Before we take a single call, we work with you to understand your business: your coverage area, motor club preferences, response priorities, dispatch protocols, zip codes, preferred communication channels, and everything else that goes into efficient dispatching. We tailor our system to reflect your way of doing business.

We’re based in Connecticut, but we dispatch for companies all over the United States. Whether you’re in a small rural town or a major metro area, we’ll ensure only the calls that fit your scope reach your team.

You’re Not Alone

Many of our clients came to us after months, sometimes years of debating whether they could really trust an outside dispatch team. That hesitation is valid. But after experiencing the peace of mind, increased revenue, and improved customer response times we

provide, most say the same thing: “I wish I had called sooner.”

So, if you’re tired of sleepless nights, burnt-out staff, missed revenue, or sacrificing your personal life for your business, you don’t have to keep doing it alone. There is a better way, and Holly’s Towing Dispatch is here to help.

Let’s

Talk

Whether you’re curious, cautious, or ready to move forward, we’re happy to talk through your specific needs. There’s no obligation, we are happy to have a conversation about how we can help you reclaim your time, support your drivers, and protect the business you’ve worked so hard to build.

Call us today at 1-800-730-3909 or visit www.HollysTowingDispatch.com online to get started with a 2-week free trial. Let’s build a solution that works for you and get you back to doing what you do best: running your business, not your phones.

Outfitting Your Facility for Service and Maintenance Why Preventive Measures Matter

BY JOHN KRAUS

As I reflect on the towing industry, I’m reminded that being a true professional in this line of work is a noble pursuit. We often praise first responders; police officers, firefighters, and medical professionals - but sometimes forget the tow truck operators. These individuals are often the first to arrive on scene, frequently placed in unsafe or compromising situations, and

almost always working under extreme conditions. They work under immense pressure to clear wrecks, restore traffic flow, and do so quickly and safely, often before other emergency services arrive.

Operating a towing company comes with a unique set of challenges. The cost of equipment is continuously rising, fuel prices remain unpredictable, insurance premiums are high, and finding and retaining quality drivers is an ongoing concern. But one of the

most significant and often overlooked expenses is maintenance. Many companies underestimate how much of their annual operating budget is lost to preventable repairs.

Tow trucks operate in some of the harshest conditions imaginable. They idle for extended periods, operate in stop-and-go traffic, and are regularly exposed to corrosive materials like salt and de-icing chemicals. These factors accelerate wear and tear, particularly on

“The truth is preventive maintenance doesn’t need to be complex or expensive.”

hydraulic systems, electrical components, and undercarriage assemblies. Every day, I see companies come in for repairs, spending thousands of dollars on avoidable breakdowns that could have been prevented with basic, consistent preventive maintenance.

The truth is preventive maintenance doesn’t need to be complex or expensive. In fact, much of it doesn’t require a technician or a fully outfitted shop. You’d be surprised at how far a can of WD-40 or white lithium grease can go! By dedicating just a few hours each month to inspecting and maintaining critical components, companies can extend the life of their equipment and

dramatically cut repair costs.

There’s always a debate about whether to do major repair work internally or outsource it. In my opinion, if you’re running fewer than 10 trucks, it might not make financial sense to operate your own full-service shop. The cost of diagnostic tools, lifts, specialty equipment, and labor can add up quickly. Plus, sourcing skilled technicians is becoming increasingly difficult. Instead, focus on building strong relationships with reputable service providers and investing your energy in preventive upkeep.

Take this example: a customer recently came in with a rusted-solid set of wheel grids on their wheel lift. These components hadn’t been greased or maintained, and they had to be cut off with a torch… a process that took 3 to 4 hours of labor. At a shop rate of $150–$200/hour, plus the cost of the new parts, the bill totaled over $1,000. A simple spray of white lithium grease on

the crossbars once a month could have entirely prevented this expense.

Another common issue involves tilt cylinder pins. These are wearing items that should be replaced periodically. When ignored, they wear into the cylinder housing itself, requiring a complete tilt cylinder replacement which is a far more expensive and laborintensive job.

In fact, I’d estimate that nearly 30% of all repair costs we see in the shop could be avoided with basic monthly preventive maintenance.

Simple Preventive Maintenance That Saves Thousands

Here are a few simple, proactive steps that can significantly reduce your longterm operating costs:

• Grease all zerk fittings monthly

• Grease cam locks and wheel lift crossbars

• Inspect and replace wear pads as needed

• Check hoses monthly for cracks or leaks

• Change hydraulic fluid and filters annually

• Perform monthly winch inspections, change winch oil annually

• Inspect winch cables for frays or damage

• Grease and maintain control rods

• Inspect and replace tilt cylinder pins before excessive wear

• Maintain a maintenance log book for each truck, reviewed quarterly

• Keep a basic toolkit and supplies in each vehicle (grease, wrenches, spare pins)

• Consult your equipment manufacturer for specific maintenance schedules

These steps aren’t just about avoiding repairs - they’re about protecting your investment. A truck that’s properly maintained will last longer, perform more reliably, and retain more resale value.

The old saying holds true in this business: time is money. When a truck is down, it’s not generating revenue. A broken-down truck in the yard can cost far more than just the repair bill. It means missed calls, delayed service, and unhappy customers. Downtime hurts your reputation and disrupts your ability to serve your community.

By stocking your facility with basic maintenance supplies, creating a consistent maintenance routine, and outsourcing major repairs, when necessary, you can save tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your fleet. More importantly, you’ll keep your trucks on the road, where they belong - doing the vital, often overlooked work of the professional tow operator.

John Kraus is the Service Manager Worldwide Equipment Sales of Michigan and has over 40 years of experience in the tow truck and automotive industry in the field of maintenance.

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hotline

Charging Ahead: How Tow Operators Can Profit from EV Charging

BY RON SLEDZIESKI

Electric vehicles (EVs) are showing up more and more on the roads, whether we like them or not. As a tow operator, that’s a chance to make money. You can generate revenue by installing charging equipment on your property, or you can rescue stranded EVs by charging them right on the spot. By embracing EV charging, even small tow companies are finding there is a new revenue stream waiting to be tapped. That’s because they know how to get in early, find the right gear, and grab free money from the government and utility companies. Most importantly, they know how to turn all that into profit.

Making Money with EV Chargers in Your Lot

If you have a commercial lot or property, installing EV chargers can bring steady money, especially if you’re

near highways, restaurants, apartments or hotels. If you’re already towing stranded EVs, offering a rescue charge instead is faster, easier, safe, and it makes money on the spot. First, a few basics:

• kW and kWh: Kilowatts (kW) are like horsepower—it’s a measure of power and is related to how fast an EV can charge. Kilowatt-hours (kWh) are like gallons of gas—it’s how much energy goes into the battery. Charging at a power of one kW for one hour equates to one kWh of energy.

• Miles per kWh: Most EVs can travel 3 to 4 miles for every kWh in the battery. So, a 10-kWh charge adds 30 to 40 miles of range. Miles per kWh is a fuel efficiency measurement of electrical power just like miles per gallon for gasoline cars.

• Make-Ready Work: This includes trenching, conduit, electrical panel upgrades, wire and circuit breakers,

stuff needed to set up before installing chargers. These one-time costs may be covered in full or in part by rebates and incentives.

• CPO (Charge Point Operator): That’s you — the person or business responsible for hosting EV chargers at your site. There are various ownership and management models available. As the CPO, you can be as involved as you want to be. Some choose to actively manage the chargers. Others prefer a hands-off approach, where a provider like EVchargeHERO.com installs and operates everything, then simply shares a portion of the revenue.

• CMS (Charging Management System): Software that handles payments from the EV driver, sets pricing and monitors activity remotely. There are different options depending on what chargers are used, and charger companies typically share part of the revenue. An ideal CMS keeps everything organized for you and your EV customers and does that without excessive fees.

• Types of EV Chargers: Faster chargers typically cost more but so does the make-ready work needed to install them. Chargers are separated into three types and have different speeds, costs and applications.

One-Time Costs: Incentives, Grants, and Rebates

Good news—you don’t have to pay full price. There’s a lot of money available to help you get started with make-ready work and EV chargers. With permitting required, and Federal, State and Utility money available, installations don’t happen quickly. Here’s a summary (be sure to verify as these incentives seem to be constantly changing):

• Federal Tax Credit: 30% of install costs, up to $100,000.

• State Incentives: Vary by location— some states will cover thousands per charger.

• Utility Rebates: Power companies want more chargers on the grid. Many offer help with equipment or electrical work. Georgia Power currently has up to $200K available, of course with strings attached.

Visit dsireUSA.org and call your

power company for more information. Or just email info@EVchargeHERO.com— and we’ll help you navigate all this.

Residual Income: Bringing in Money

Here’s where it gets good. Imagine being the first to install gasoline pumps more than a century ago — now you have a chance to tap into a similar opportunity.

As of 2025, the average EV charging rate in the U.S. is approximately 36¢ per

kilowatt-hour (kWh), according to AAA. This figure reflects a blended average across all types of public and commercial chargers, primarily Level 2 and Level 3 (DC Fast Charging). While not broken out by charger type, the average is likely influenced by free or low-cost Level 2 stations at hotels, workplaces, and grocery stores.

Level 2 charger pricing typically ranges from 25¢ to 40¢ per kWh, while Level 3 fast charging (DCFC) is often priced at 40¢ to 70¢ per kWh or more. In

some areas, pricing isn’t based strictly on energy delivered—some networks charge by the hour or per session, which can impact the effective per-kWh cost. The best way to understand pricing per kWh in your area is to check local chargers on PlugShare or other apps that typically show pricing.

On the cost side, the national average commercial electricity rate is about 13¢ per kWh, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Charging providers mark up their rates to cover equipment, network fees, maintenance, operational costs, and of course—profit.

Level 2 Example — Dollars Can Add Up

Suppose an EV adds 30 kWh from a Level 2 station, providing approximately 100 miles of range in about 3 hours. Let’s say the electricity is priced at 36¢ per kWh and your cost is 13¢ per kWh. That’s a gross profit of $7 for the session.

SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

Subtracting provider fees (which vary), you might end up with around $5 profit for that charging session.

It doesn’t sound like a lot, but in a good area, this could be repeated six times in 24 hours, equaling $30 per day—nearly $1,000 per month. And that’s just for one plug that practically runs itself.

Level 3: Faster Charging, Higher Earnings

Level 3 chargers cost more, work much faster, and allow you to charge more—both in terms of energy delivered and price per kWh. A full session might earn you $20 or more and be completed in less than one hour. They’re ideal for busy locations and highway access and can generate thousands of dollars per month per plug.

Other Factors That Impact Revenue

Keep in mind that different business

and ownership models can affect both examples. There’s also a start-up curve— it takes time for EV drivers to discover and start using your stations. Other key factors that can enhance your earnings:

• EV traffic near your lot

• How frequently your chargers are used

• Average charging time

• Electricity cost vs. rate charged

Mobile EV Rescue Chargers: Charge It Rather Than Tow It

Stranded EVs don’t need a tow. Typically, it takes about 10-20 minutes to give a 5 to 10 mile rescue charge so the EV can drive to the nearest charging station. Portable chargers fit right in your truck. Some are battery packs; others use generators. Here’s why they’re a win:

• Faster, safer, easier for you than towing and typically done in 20 minutes

• Happier customers who avoid the risk, hassle and longer delay with a tow

• Billable at $75 to $200+ per charge depending on the area

EVroadHERO.com is working with national providers to coordinate a national rescue network and can help you make more money. Equipment costs are lower than you’d think, units run $5,000 to $10,000, and the operation is simple: just pull up, plug-in and charge. Thinking of DIY equipment? Be careful:

• Use a generator with clean voltage

output (low THD %) or you could damage the sensitive electronics in the EV.

• Match the EV charger maximum power to the generator’s nominal, continuous output, or you could damage the generator and possibly create a dangerous situation.

The EVroadHERO™ unit is a portable inverter that provides ultra-clean power (THD <3%) matched with a custommade EV charger that pulls no more than the maximum load. This engineering protects the unit and provides the fastest possible charge. It is important to note that EVs at or near zero percent battery typically limit their charging speed, and the EV itself (not the charger) dictates the charging speed (up to the charger full potential). So be skeptical of any portable charging equipment that promises more or uses marketing that says “up to 1 mile per minute” as this typically is not in a rescue situation.

Some customers may want mobile “convenience charging” to get their EV to a full charge rather than the 5 to 10 mile rescue charge. Using a lowerpriced rescue charger takes far too long. Equipment that has been designed for efficient convenience charging can be very expensive and is typically battery based, so requires recharging the unit itself.

If you’re unsure or have questions, simply visit EVroadHERO.com for more information and call us with any questions.

Are You Ready to Act?

EVs are already here and growing, and they’re not going away. Tow operators are in the perfect position to make money—both at the roadside and on your lot. This is especially true for those who act early in each area. With rebates and tax credits available, this is a great time to get in. Start small with a mobile unit or go big with a Level 3 charging setup.

Let your trucks and your lot work for you in the EV world!

Ron Sledzieski, the founder of EVroadHERO™ and EVchargeHERO™, has an electrical engineering degree from the University of Connecticut, and a passion for EV charging and solar innovation. Besides grid-connected EV charging described in this article, he has become a recognized leader in mobile EV charging, by designing and producing rescue EV charging units that help stranded EVs get back on the road quickly and affordably. He’s also the inventor of a patent-pending, collapsible, towable solar canopy EV charger, built for off-grid and emergency use. Ron shares his expertise at industry events across the country, educating tow operators and businesses on the practical, profitable opportunities in mobile EV charging. In addition, he is supporting the emerging EV boating industry working to bring practical charging solutions to the water just as he has on land.

Lithium Jump Starters:

Safe, Smart and Effective Usage Tips

At Clore Automotive, manufacturer of Jump-NCarry and Booster PAC jump starters, we get many emails and phone calls related to the use of lithium jump starters. The specific topics of interest vary, but they typically fall within a handful of areas related to effectiveness and safe use. Here are a few examples: What do I need to know? Where can I use them? How do I take care of them? How do I keep them safe?

We’ve all seen news stories related to lithium battery safety issues, which drives many of these questions from our customers. Prospective users want to be sure they understand the best ways to use these products to keep themselves and their property safe. This article breaks

this topic down to help prospective customers better understand the best practices to employ them to overcome dead batteries.

The More Things Change, The More Safety Basics Stay the Same

Even though your lithium jump starter is quite different compared to a traditional unit, the fundamentals of the jump starting application are largely unchanged. So that means all of the basic building blocks of jump starting safety remain the same. There are:

• Always wear protective eyewear

• Always make sure your voltages match (vehicle and jump starter)

• Always remove jewelry, such as rings, when working around a battery

• Never run the risk of dropping a tool across a battery’s terminals

• Always follow the proper connection procedure

• Always make your negative connection to a proper ground (away from the battery)

Following these simple steps, no matter the type of jump starter used, will increase your safety factor exponentially. A vehicle battery, especially a compromised one, can be dangerous. Taking a safety-first approach just makes sense when working around them.

Starting with Equipment in Good Working Order

Ensuring that your equipment is in good working condition is always a good

idea. It is particularly important when it comes to lithium jump starters. For these products, there are three key things to keep in mind: 1.) the unit has a good state of charge, 2.) electronics are working properly, and 3.) output cables and clamps are not compromised.

We harp on this, but it’s important to keep your jump starter properly charged for several reasons. First, it is most effective when it’s fully charged. We recommend that a lithium jump starter be at or above 75% State of Charge (SoC) when it is used for jump starting purposes. This will massively improve your chances of getting a good jump start. It also reduces the stress on the jump starter itself, since you are not exposing the unit to a high stress event (jump starting) when it’s at its weakest. Following the 75%+ rule will result in longer unit life. So, when it gets below 75% or you have had to use the unit for a tough jump start, charge it up.

Always check your lithium jump

starter chassis, interface and buttons before use and before charging. Has it received a sharp blow? Is the case compromised a result of a damaging drop? Has the user interface degraded to the point where the buttons are only working some of the time? Do the electronics and safe ties only seem to work some of the time, or do you get weird behavior from the unit occasionally? If any of these conditions exist, you may need to take your unit out of service. The reason these units can be so small and still start a vehicle is that the battery that drives them is very energy dense. That’s great when it’s time to start a vehicle but it can be problematic if the battery is compromised in any way. Just as you shouldn’t operate a laptop with a damaged battery, you also shouldn’t operate a lithium jump starter that you have reason to believe is damaged. Each time you use your jump starter to start a disabled vehicle, it is wise

POWER YOU CAN DEPEND ON.

to check the power path components (connectors, cables, clamps) to ensure that they are in good condition prior to use. Make sure that the cable jackets are intact, the clamps are not damaged and that all connections (if the cables aren’t fixed) are properly seated and secure. This is very important. For instance, if an output cable had a frayed cable jacket and the cable itself was exposed, any contact with a vehicle metal surface could cause a short, which is bad for vehicle electronics and could be damaging for the jump starter itself.

Safety Circuits are Critical on This Class of Jump Starter

As noted above, the batteries found in lithium jump starters are extremely energy dense, which is why you can start a car using a battery the size of a deck of cards. The downside of this energy density is that the battery must be protected against unsafe conditions. This is true for any product containing a

that

Model JNC345

SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

lithium battery but is especially critical in a product that subjects the battery to an inherently stressful application like jump starting. So, the quality of the safety circuitry is a huge determinant of the overall safety of the unit itself.

From our point of view, this need for safe circuitry to protect the battery from dangerous conditions is most easily addressed by ensuring any unit you consider for purchase is certified to meet the requirements of UL2743, which is the prevailing safety standard for this class of product in North America. Meeting UL2743 doesn’t necessarily mean a specific product will perform well but it does mean that it delivers the safety required by the standard. Any product that meets this standard will be marked as such. For instance, our Jump-N-Carry lithium jump starters call out the fact that they are certified to conform to the requirements of UL2743 on both the display carton and the rear silkscreen of each model. We would council our family and friends to only purchase a unit that meets this standard. Separately, we would also advise our family and friends that the gold standard for safety for these units is for all safety circuitry to be located within the body of the unit itself. Several years ago, it was common for units to have safety circuitry on the output cable(s). In 2025, this really is an outdated practice and units that still follow this methodology should be avoided, since we would say that they are inherently less safe than units with the protection inside the unit itself. This brings up an important point. If you ever damage the output cables/ clamps of your lithium jump starter, you should do everything possible to replace them with an exact OE replacement from the manufacturer, especially if you do have a unit with the safety on the cable.

Finally, when it comes to safety circuitry, a quality unit will consider the fact that these units are more sensitive to temperature than traditional jump starters. For instance, they should never be charged if the battery’s temperature is below 32˚F. Jump-N-Carry lithium jump starters feature temperature monitoring and will not allow charging energy to reach the battery unit the battery is above 32˚F.

Things to Remember When Jump Starting

Like the general safety tips at the start of this article, most aspects of the jump-starting application are the same whether you are using a lead acid jump starter or a lithium jump starter. Of course, make sure you understand the vehicle battery’s polarity and align properly with it. If the vehicle’s battery is totally dead and the jump starter can’t recognize a proper connection, many units have a workaround for that. For instance, our Jump-N-Carry lithium jump starters feature an override button that can force the unit to engage with a totally dead battery. Whenever you use a workaround like this, it is important to double check your connections before pressing the override button. While our units do have safeties in place even when the override feature is deployed, a simple extra check that an error wasn’t made during the initial connection process is a best practice that should be followed every time.

The other key thing to remember is that your jump starter has a duty cycle. In our case, our units have a 6 sec on (cranking the engine) followed by a 180 sec rest period. Our safety circuit enforces this duty cycle, but not all units have this protection. So, it is important that you understand the prescribed duty cycle of any unit you own/use to avoid overtaxing the unit, which can stress the battery to the point of failure, which can be a real problem for some lithium jump starters. Again, this is not the case with our units. Jump-N-Carry lithium jump starters feature over crank protection, which essentially enforces the prescribed duty cycle.

Storage and Transport –Best Practices

The first thing to remember for safe transport and storage of your lithium unit

is to disconnect your cable/clamps from the unit (if the unit has detachable cables) once you have finished your jumpstarting task. We’d also recommend covering all ports that have covers, as our JNC units do. In addition, it is a best practice to return the unit to its case/pouch/bag for secure storage and transport. While you’re at it, check the clamps for battery acid or other vehicle greases/fluids and wipe clean (in a safe manner) prior to storage.

As noted above, these units are sensitive to extreme temperatures. If you plan to store your unit in your vehicle during the hottest part of the summer, we recommend keeping it in an area where it can get some circulation and that avoids extreme heat build-up. For instance, we do not recommend storing a unit in the glove box. Studies have shown that the glove box can be 10-15˚F hotter than the space under a seat on the hottest days. During winter, storing your jump starter in your vehicle shouldn’t be a problem. Check the temperature rating of your unit and make sure that overnight temps won’t dip below the recommended operating range of your specific unit. If they are expected to do so, we recommend bringing the unit inside for the night until milder weather returns. Also, if you are experiencing extreme cold, you may want to charge your unit more regularly (once the unit has warmed up) to ensure the unit has a good, full charge and will be ready when you need it the most.

Jump-N-Carry Power with Advanced Safety Features

Our lineup of Jump-N-Carry lithium jump starters delivers an optimal combination of power, smarts and safety to the jump starting application for professional technicians and tow operators. With three models from which to choose, it’s easy to find the one that matches your specific needs, from our 1000A (300 Start Assist Amps) JNC305 to our 3000A (550 Start Assist Amps) JNC345. All models feature long cable lengths for easy access to vehicle starting points, an override feature that allows them to engage a totally dead (0.0V) battery and detachable cables for safe, secure storage.

One great way to gauge the usefulness

and power of a jump starter is to look at how effective it is when operating in cold temperatures. This is an area

where Jump-N-Carry has always outperformed, and these models are no exception. We rate our JNC305 model

as effective to 0˚F, our JNC325 model as effective to -10˚F and our JNC345 model as effective to -23˚F. They are built tough and designed to deliver the goods in the real world, where cold weather is often the culprit behind an underperforming vehicle battery.

All Jump-N-Carry lithium jump starter models conform to and are lab-certified to meet the requirements of the UL2743 safety certification, the prevailing safety standard for this class of product. In fact, our units far exceed these requirements, bringing advanced safety features to our units that protect the operator and the equipment under service during the jump-starting event. Jump starting, frankly, is a harsh application that can put great stress on the jump-starter and its battery during particularly difficult starts. Our models are specifically designed to withstand these difficult starting situations, just like our lead acid models have been doing for 30+ years.

TALK IN REAL TIME

With Apex Team Wireless Headsets you just talk. No buttons to push and no waiting for anyone else to stop talking. Microphones are live all the time compared to other brands that are voice activated. The most critical first couple of words may be missed.

Give your trucks the upgrade they deserve and the shine to be sure to turn heads with products from Phoenix USA. Or, if you are just looking to freshen up your fleet or add the latest advancements in tool storage, give us a call! Our wheel simulators are all polished 304 stainless, so you never have to worry about rust. We offer the same polished stainless on the doors of our toolboxes and even have full stainless tool boxes. Therefore, if you are in the market for upgrading your fleet, look into Phoenix USA for all your truck accessory needs.

As with all Phoenix products, you get the cutting edge of industry knowledge and know how, along with the finest customer service in the industry. For more information, please call us at 1-931-526-6128 or visit us on the web at www.phoenixusa.com.

ROADSIDE SAFETY

When providing roadside assistance, safety must be your top priority. Visibility and clear communication with surrounding traffic are critical for preventing accidents and ensuring a secure working environment. To support your team’s safety on the job, we’ve curated a selection of high-performance products designed to maximize visibility and enhance on-scene safety.

Traffic Commander

The Traffic Commander is a versatile three-in-one device combining a message board, 18-LED light bar, and an arrow stick. When upright, it displays programmable messages and directional indicators. In the stowed position, it functions as a powerful light bar. The message board is legible from up to 1,000 feet and visible from 4,000 feet, ensuring oncoming traffic is well aware of your presence. It comes preloaded with various standard messages, and you can customize it for any situation.

Guardian Angel Elite Series Safety Light

Enhance personal safety with the Guardian Angel Elite Series Safety Light. This wearable LED light bar delivers 360-degree illumination at up to 800 lumens, ensuring visibility from over five miles away. Equipped with 18 high-powered LEDs and mounted via a six-inch Velcro strap or universal magnetic mount, it can be worn beneath clothing or attached to a vest or gear, offering flexible and reliable lighting in a variety of colors.

Grote Dual Function HINVII Lighthead

The Grote Dual Function HINVII Lighthead emits a low-wavelength light specifically designed to reflect off high-visibility materials, making personnel easy to spot in low-light situations without distracting drivers or other workers. In addition to this reflective function, it serves as an amber warning light. Built with a polycarbonate base, lens and finish, the unit is engineered for durability and impact resistance.

FirstGard Foldable Safety Cone

The FirstGard Foldable Safety Cone combines convenience with durability. It unfolds to a footprint of 29” x 29”, yet collapses to just 1.5” for easy storage and transport. Integrated molded handles allow for quick setup, while the rubber feet and high-density polyethylene construction provide stability and longlasting performance under demanding conditions.

Cone Commander Cone Light

Upgrade your traffic cones with the Cone Commander Cone Light. This rechargeable LED light fits securely over various cone styles and provides 360-degree visibility from up to one mile away. Featuring five single-color modes—red, green, amber, blue and white—plus multiple dual-color settings, this beacon enhances roadside visibility. With a 50,000-hour lifespan and military-grade housing, it’s built to withstand the rigors of roadside use.

Explore these and other high-visibility safety solutions at www.Zips.com— where your team’s protection is always a priority.

Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc

Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc

Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc

Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc

Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc

YOUR PARTNER ON EVERY CALL.

Every call is your chance to shine, and Hino tow trucks are built to perform when it counts—strong, reliable, and trusted by operators nationwide. With Hino Edge connectivity, an exclusive standard 5-year Allison Transmission warranty, and 24/7 HinoWatch roadside assistance. At Hino, our commitment doesn't end when the truck is sold - it's where The Ultimate Ownership Experience begins, because for you, it's always MORE THAN A TRUCK.