BUILT TO TOW
BECAUSE THE WORK DEMANDS IT
Show Season is almost at an end, time for budget planning and reflection on 2025!
Show Season...has been hot and heavy in September, with 3 tow association shows occurring in the month of September and first few weeks of October! This year we had the North Carolina Mid Atlantic Tow Expo, 47th Ohio Midwest Regional Show, and the Tennessee Tow shows all almost back-to-back! Let’s face it, the association shows are the most important in this industry and lots of fun too! Association shows fund legislation, offer training, memberships, and help fuel the same industry we pull from. We are proud to be able to support the Ohio, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida PWOF shows. Their presence within the industry helps tremendously!
Dan Messina provides us with some Insightful Talk in this issue. He talks about two of his biggest mentors, one being a staple in our industry! DJ Harrington’s Fuel for Thought in this issue focuses on your Dash, the time between our beginning and end and the importance of our action between this “Dash.” In this installment of Women of Towing, Michelle Sukow, educates on the perception of employees on a job well done and the reality of what truly pays the bills for the owner. John Borowski joined our editorial team in the last issue and will be a deep well of knowledge for our readers going forward. In this issue, John explains how a shop owner lost half of his customers and made more, explaining the power behind pricing.
In this issue, we feature Towing Software, Lockout Tools, and a wide array of products from the great folks at Zips! We take an in-depth look at towing software from Towbook, Autura, Azuga, and Ranger SST. Lockout Tools that should be in every tow professional’s toolbox is from our friends at Milton Industries, and JB Tow.
We hope this insight helps you find the solution that best fits your business. Tow Professional Podcast is available anywhere you find your favorite podcast, or on www.towprofessional.com. Thanks for your loyalty to our publication, and our men and women’s heart of service.
Owner/Publisher
Tow Professional
Darian Weaver 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
Tom Parbs
Tim Smith
John Borowski
Cynthia J. Martineau
Bruce Bender
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.
For a new free subscription, address changes or corrections, please visit www.towprofessional.com and click on the “subscribe” tab.
Accessorized! Top Jerr-Dan® Accessories to Boost Your Towing & Recovery Business
When it comes to towing and recovery, the right equipment makes all the difference. Jerr-Dan understands that operators need more than just reliable trucks — they need smart, purpose-built vehicle accessories that make jobs safe and efficient.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular Jerr-Dan® accessory options that can help you work smarter, not harder.
Rear Awareness Indicator Lights (RAIL)
Increased Awareness While Loading Visibility is safety, especially when loading in low-light or high-traffic conditions. Jerr-Dan’s exclusive Rear Awareness Indicator Lights
The patented RAIL system is designed with one goal: to make sure approaching drivers see you—especially when the carrier bed is tipped down, a moment when traditional lighting can be blocked or obscured.
use powerful LED technology to cut through darkness, fog, rain or busy roadways, keeping operators safely in sight.
The patented RAIL system is designed with one goal: to make sure approaching drivers see you—especially when the carrier bed is tipped down, a moment when traditional lighting can be blocked or obscured. Angled mounting brackets and extended positioning mean your warning lights remain visible, even when you’re parked in front of the casualty vehicle.
More visibility means more safety for you, your crew, and the motorists around you.
Side Recovery System (SRS)
Versatile Recovery From Any Angle
Some jobs just can’t be tackled straight-on. That’s where the JerrDan Side Recovery System comes in.
Designed for both carriers and heavyduty wreckers, the SRS features a recovery boom that pivots, allowing recovery from either side. It’s capable of pulling at multiple angles — forward, sideways and rearward — so you can approach each job with flexibility and confidence.
First introduced in 2008 and patented for its unique design, the SRS is available both as a factory option and as an aftermarket upgrade. In fact, Jerr-Dan even made it available for installation on competitors’ trucks because a good recovery tool should be in everyone’s wheelhouse.
42K Spreader Bar
Heavy-Duty Lifting Made Easier
For vertical lifting applications, Jerr-Dan’s 42K Spreader Bar is built to perform. Rated at 42,000-lb with a 60-degree sling angle, this rugged
attachment is designed for fast setup, easy storage and safe operation in the field.
It features a quick-assembly design, an integrated sling angle chart and an angle indicator to help operators lift with confidence. The Spreader Bar is also compatible with Tow Link™, JerrDan’s digital app that offers rigging and performance calculators, putting realtime guidance right at your fingertips.
Work Smart. Recover Safe.
Every minute matters in the towing and recovery industry. By outfitting your vehicle fleet with accessories like RAIL system, the Side Recovery System and the 42K Spreader Bar, you’ll be ready for whatever the road throws your way — day or night, rain or shine.
Jerr-Dan accessories aren’t just vehicle add-ons; they’re force multipliers for your business.
PSS Enhances Foldable Traffic Cone FirstGard with Fill Port for Greater Stability
PSS, a leading innovator in safety equipment, is proud to announce an important improvement to its FirstGard foldable traffic cone with the addition of a fill port that offers greater stability and performance for users in the field.
Designed to optimize portability and efficiency, FirstGard is trusted by professionals in emergency response, construction, and traffic control. Now, with the addition of a convenient fill port, users can easily add dry sand to ballast the cone for extra stability in challenging weather or high-speed traffic conditions. With this update, each of FirstGard’s three panels can hold up to 1.5 lbs of sand each, for a combined additional 4.5 lbs of weight.
Customer feedback led PSS to incorporate the option for increased stability for more extreme environments. First responders answer the call of duty regardless of weather conditions. With this new feature, FirstGard is always ready to be at their side.
PSS sent a prototype of the updated FirstGard to the Ann Arbor Township Fire Department for assessment last year and received feedback from Captain Lewis Kempf:
“We have more miles of expressway
in our township than any other in the county, so we are using FirstGard in high-speed areas as well as open wind areas; adding about a quarter pound of sand to each panel makes the cones very stable. On windy days, a standard cone will blow over unless you double the rubber ones up, but adding the extra weight to FirstGard allows them to remain stable even on windy days.”
The fill port is designed for ease of use, durability, and leak prevention.
Whether you’re managing a temporary lane closure, working on the roadside, or responding to an emergency, the enhanced FirstGard foldable cone is now even more adaptable to your safety needs.
The improved FirstGard foldable traffic cone is available now through PSS distributors and at pss-innovations. com. For more information, please contact team@pss-innovations.com or call 800-662-6338.
TROY’S LAW
Troy Lee Caldwell, age 54, of Castle Drive, Morehead, passed away Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from injuries sustained on I-64 in Bath County, by a semi driver who failed to slow down and move over.
The semi driver was watching you tube on his eld tablet, the driver was arrested, then released and never showed back up to court. So unfortunately, the family and friends of Troy feel there will be no justice for his death.
A friend of Troy’s and several other towing companies wanted something to change and change big. They have been trying to get Kentucky to adopt the laws of some other states and allow them to have rear facing only blue lights added to their tow trucks. They want this new law to be in Troy’s honor and memory by calling it Troy’s Law. It is a simple change that could help save lives and help keep them and others safer while on the side of the road.
His death has led others in the industry to call for additional safety measures. House Bill 115, which has been waiting for a committee hearing for about a month, is aiming to increase protection.
“To see all of his friends out there doing what they love and knowing that anything can happen at any time and we’re living it,” said Desiree Lykins,
Troy Caldwell’s daughter at the rally in the rotunda. “For them to be here to honor my dad and stuff like that, it’s a blessing that’s for sure.”
Fellow tow truck driver Bubba Johnson has helped to lead the push for House Bill 115, which is what they call “Troy’s Law.’ It seeks to add protection, starting with making tow truck drivers more visible with an additional blue light added to the vehicle while they are removing a vehicle on the highway. The light would not be used while a tow truck is driving on a highway.
“Regardless of the results we end up getting, it’s made the awareness very much there. they realize the dangers,” said Johnson.
Rep. Richard White (R-Morehead) is the lead cosponsor of House Bill 115. He said he had discussed with tow truck drivers the possibility of different colored lights, but they ultimately ended up going blue.
“A lot of times it takes a couple of years to get people accustomed to this type of idea, He said blue lights
are typically associated with law enforcement, which he said could give some lawmakers and law enforcement agencies pause on the bill. However, Rep. White said it is what the tow truck drivers wanted, and he is helping to support their mission.
“I’ve never seen so much support in my life from a group of people and they have worked hard on this, and they’ve been behind pushing me to do the best I can in pushing this forward and I’ve done all I can do,” said Rep. White.
Lykins said the hope is to get even more people, especially lawmakers, to see and hear about a group that she says is often overlooked, despite helping others to safety and risking their own lives.
“I really think the more people come together and convince the lawmakers, we will begin to see that it’s worth it,” said Lykins.
House Bill 115 was introduced in the house on Jan. 8, and it has been waiting for the House Transportation Committee to consider it since Feb. 4.
Introducing Lite-It Wireless Light Bars with External Power Packs.
36" Wireless Light Bar with External Power Pack Battery
Get unparalleled convenience with this wireless light bar. Featuring an external 20v lithium battery pack, you can swap a dead battery for a charged one in seconds, ensuring you never run out of light on the job.
36" Wireless Light Bar with Strobes & External Power Pack Battery
All the benefits of our wireless light bar, now with added Amber/White strobes for maximum visibility. The external battery pack provides extended run time, while an auto-shutoff circuit and 10 flash patterns add to its versatility.
LITH36
LITH36STR
TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day
TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day is the industry’s only national hill day! This is your opportunity to meet with Members of Congress and make real, substantial change for the whole community. No prior experience required!
Our host hotel is the Royal Sonesta Washington DC, Capitol Hill! Steps from the U.S. Capitol Building, Senate office buildings, Union Station, National Mall, and local restaurants, this luxury hotel is larger with more amenities.
Registration is now open for Hill Day 2026!
See pricing information below:
Early Bird Discount (register by December 31, 2025)
• TRAA Member Pricing (subject to verification): $699
• Non-Member Pricing: $899
Standard Registration (January 1-January 31, 2026)
• TRAA Member Pricing (subject to verification): $799
• Non-Member Pricing: $999
Registration closes on January 31st, so register now!
2026 TENTATIVE EVENT SCHEDULE
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
• 8:30 am Registration & Event Check-In
• 8:30 am - 9:30 am Breakfast
• 9:30 am - 10:30 am Legislative Workshop 1: Opening Session & Overview of Legislative Priorities
• 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Legislative Workshop 2: Constituent Meeting Preparation
• 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Lunch
• 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Federal Policy Session
• 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm State Association Sharing
Wednesday “Hill Day”, February 25, 2026
• 9:00 am Constituent Meetings with Members of Congress (meetings facilitated by TRAA’s federal lobbying team)
• 2:00 pm Member of Congress Meet & Greet on Capitol Hill
• 3:30 pm Capitol Tour
For more information, visit www.traaonline.com/hillday
There are Several Advantages to Using the TOW BUDDY Over Traditional Methods
• SPEED! You can pick up a bobtail truck within 6 minutes and be on your way. It takes less than a minute to mount the TOW BUDDY, but you will probably keep it mounted most of the time!
• DON’T GET DIRTY! You don’t have to get on the ground to hook up or disconnect drive shafts with TOW BUDDY!
• SAFE! Fifth wheels are designed to handle the load and stress, both vertical and horizontal stresses. No jumping off of forks!
• LOW TO THE GROUND? When using the TOW BUDDY, you can easily tow normally hard-to-tow trucks such as car haulers, those with disc brakes, log trucks, etc.
• TIGHT SPOTS? You can make very sharp turns to maneuver a tow out of a tight spot.
• WINCH POINT! You can attach a TOW BUDDY to a bobtail and use it as a winch point to maneuver it.
• DAMAGED AXLES, DRIVE SHAFTS? You no longer have to worry about bad rear axles, bad wheels, or drive shafts!
• TRAILERS? You can tow a bobtail and almost any trailer!
CAMPER RIG! With the TOW BUDDY II mounted on a rollback, put the truck on your rollback and tow the trailer with the wheel lift!
The New TOW BUDDY II
The new TOW BUDDY II allows you to switch out the hitch - you can use a kingpin to tow a bobtail, or you can select a trailer hitch to tow a trailer.
To tow a trailer simply mount the TOW BUDDY on the wheel lift upside down.
By using taller mounting brackets, you can also use it on a rollback to tow trailers.
Get yours today, www.tow-buddy.com or call Joey: 251-714-0096.
BELOW: The TOW BUDDY II - Mounted on a Rollback!
It’s Not About Compromise... It’s About Delivering More!
At Hino Trucks, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between proven reliability and modern innovation. With over 40 years of experience in the U.S. medium-duty market, we deliver durability, driver comfort, advanced safety features, connected vehicle technology, and premium standard equipment - all in every truck we build. At Hino, it’s not about compromise; it’s about delivering more.”
Everything You Need Now: The Essentials Done Right
Let’s start with what matters most: keeping your trucks on the road. Built on a foundation of reliability and durability, Hino delivers The Ultimate Ownership Experience backed by real support:
• An industry-leading 5-year unlimitedmile transmission warranty, standard on every truck
• Access to 200+ dealerships plus an additional 43 parts & service locations nationwide
But reliability is just the beginning. We understand that your business has unique needs. That’s why both our L Series and XL Series trucks offer extensive customization options to match your specific applications:
Multiple wheelbase options to accommodate various body lengths
• Range of cab configurations, including day cab and extended cab
• Versatile frame options with 80K PSI
standard strength (120K PSI is standard on certain L7 and XL Series models)
• Multiple fuel tank configurations
• Specialized body mounting options for various applications
Everything You Need Next: Future-Proofing Your Fleet
Your fleet is more than just a collection of trucks—it’s a complex operation that demands smart management tools and forward-thinking solutions. As you evaluate new vehicles, consider how they’ll integrate with your broader fleet management strategy. Here’s what should be on your checklist:
• Telematics integration capabilities
• Real-time performance monitoring
• Route optimization features available through chosen Telematics Service Providers
• Driver safety technology
At Hino, we believe long-term support should come standard. That’s why every
truck includes Hino Edge for 5 years at no cost - compared to the typical oneyear offering from others. Hino Edge provides:
• Seamless integration with your choice of telematics service providers
• Factory-installed hardware ready for your preferred software solutions
• Real-time fleet performance data
• Comprehensive maintenance tracking
• Fleet optimization tools
Plus, every new Hino truck comes with HinoWatch , which provides 24/7 roadside assistance for three years with unlimited mileage. That includes lockout service, battery jumpstarts, and more to keep your fleet moving.
The Ultimate Ownership Experience When investing in new trucks for your fleet, you need a complete solution to serve your business today and tomorrow. At Hino, we call this the Ultimate Ownership Experience → a commitment that every truck we manufacture will exceed your expectations in reliability, durability, and support. From our proven mechanical components to our advanced digital capabilities, every aspect of a Hino truck is designed to maximize your fleet’s performance and protect your investment.
Ready to see how Hino can help future-proof your fleet? Contact our team to discuss your specific needs and discover the right solution for your business.
www.hino.com
Striker Tow Light
Get in the strike zone with SafeAll’s new tow light. Cover all of your bases with the new Striker tow light from SafeAll, now available from Zip’s AW Direct. Offering more lighting options in a compact design, this new entry in wireless tow lights offers traditional stop, tail and turn signals plus the bonus functionality of warning lights and work lights. Compared to similarlypriced tow lights on the market, this 22”L LED tow light delivers a longer run time of 50 hours, and a battery status indicator will let you know when it needs to be recharged.
Order yours at www.Zips.com. Enter item # SA-STRIKER
Feniex Quantum Light Bar
The Feniex Quantum Light Bar sets a new standard in safety and performance as the world’s first fully customizable 60-inch lightbar. Engineered with 810 high-output LEDs and a 60-degree optical spread, it delivers maximum visibility in critical situations. Operators can configure single, dual, tri, quad or quint modes to meet diverse operational requirements. Each module offers selectable colors, including red, blue, amber, white and green, along with more than 20 programmable flash patterns. Advanced functions include takedown, alley, flood, directional arrow, cruise, park, dim, cut-off and DOT stopturn-tail features, ensuring compliance and safety.
Learn more at www.Zips.com
EZ Claw Extendable Cable Tieback for HD Rotator
A safer way to store your rotator’s auxiliary winch hook. The technology behind EZ Claw’s Line Saver tensioner system for tractor-trailers is now being adapted to the heavy-duty towing market with the EZ Claw Extendable Cable Tieback for auxiliary winches on rotators. Unlike spring-loaded tiebacks, this retractable cable offers a safer and more efficient method of storing and securing the hook in transit and on scene. Now available at Zip’s AW Direct, this tieback is installed at the base of the auxiliary winch drum mount, utilizing existing bolt hole locations. Installation kits are available for one or both sides of the boom.
Order yours today at www.Zips.com. Item #: EZC-10062
GUNI Wheel X Kit
Always have the right size wheel with the GUNI Wheel X Kit. The GUNI Wheel X is a universal vehicle repositioning wheel with interchangeable, color-coded hub inserts and outer spinning functionality. Now available at Zip’s AW Direct, this kit includes the three most popular hub patterns (4/5, 5/6 & 8 lug) to fit everything from small cars to full-size pickups, SUVs and UTVs. Measuring 24” in diameter, the entire wheel rides on an airless, molded polyurethane tread, and the outer ring can be converted to a free-rolling spinner wheel by removing the four outer locking bolts. Each kit is available for sale individually, as a pair or as a set of four.
Order Item #: GUNIX-KIT at www.Zips.com
Thanks for tuning in to this issue’s Safety Corner powered by HAAS Alert. Remember: SAFETY
IS NOT A FEATURE, IT IS A RESPONSIBILITY!
Today, we are speaking with Matt Spencer, founder of Hit While Helping, and former owner of Priority Collision Center in Hastings, MI., to learn more about the importance of Safety in the towing, recovery, and roadside assistance industry.
TP: Tell us about yourself and your organization.
MS: I am a second-generation tower and have been in and around the industry for 45 years. I started Hit While Helping because my son, Keagan Spencer, a Tow Truck Operator, was struck and killed while working on the side of the road in November 2023. Hit While Helping is a non-profit organization that was created out of grief, and after meeting with many industry individuals, this organization was formed to educate and raise awareness about the “Slow Down, Move Over” movement to the public.
TP: Closest call you’ve had on the roadside.
MS: About 2 miles down the road from where my son was struck and killed, it was a snowy road on the expressway. I was winching a vehicle from the ditch when a passing motorist came around the bend and didn’t realize I was there. The driver lost control of their vehicle and missed hitting me and my truck by inches (at highway speeds).
The saddest experience was when I got the call that a speeding motorist, who was not paying attention, distracted by playing on their phone, swerved to avoid the slowed traffic in front of them, and struck and killed my son, Keagan (experienced tow operator, formally trained, and HAZWAPPER certified). I do not wish this type of grief on anyone,
and it inspired my mission to create the Hit While Helping group and initiative.
TP: First thing you teach a new operator about safety.
MS: One of the first things that I would teach a new operator is about wearing the proper and appropriate PPE. The next step would be the training courses, such as WreckMaster, ERSCA, ATRI, and other accredited training programs available locally through the State Associations and nationwide, as soon as they can be scheduled to go. One of the biggest things we should burn into our operators’ minds is “be aware of your surroundings, keep your head on a swivel, always pay attention. You need to protect yourself when you’re working inches from live traffic.”
TP: Tools or tech you never work without.
MS: PPE, proper lighting, LED safety triangles, safety cones, message boards, and Safety Cloud by HAAS Alert so we can get people’s attention before the scene and give them time to recognize we are working ahead to slow down and move over before they get to our cones, lights, and operators working roadside. In addition, I believe the use of GPS services and cameras is also a crucial
tool to protect your business and your employees.
TP: One change that would make the job safer tomorrow.
MS: Make it mandatory that every vehicle on the roadway can receive advance warning alerts, and that every company with employees working roadside used the technology to send advance warning alerts inside the vehicles. In addition to that, mandatory road safety training for students in the K-12 grades to begin creating safe driving habits even before those new drivers get behind the wheel of a vehicle.
TOM PARBS is the Vice President at HAAS Alert. Safety Cloud® by HAAS Alert is the largest and most trusted advance warning, digital alerting platform available worldwide. Utilized by several thousand organizations to alert motorists to slow down and move over to protect those who work the roadways every day.
Matt Spencer
• Early Bird Discount (register by December 31, 2025)
TRAA Member Pricing (subject to verification): $699
Non-Member Pricing: $899
• Standard Registration (January 1-January 31, 2026)
TRAA Member Pricing (subject to verification): $799
Non-Member Pricing: $999
Registration closes on January 31st, so REGISTER NOW!
2026 Tentative Event Schedule
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
• 8:30 am Registration & Event Check-In
• 8:30 am - 9:30 am Breakfast
• 9:30 am - 10:30 am Legislative Workshop 1: Opening Session & Overview of Legislative Priorities
• 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Legislative Workshop 2: Constituent Meeting Preparation
• 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Lunch
• 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Federal Policy Session
• 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm State Association Sharing
Wednesday “Hill Day”, February 25, 2026
• 9:00 am Constituent Meetings with Members of Congress (meetings facilitated by TRAA’s federal lobbying team)
• 2:00 pm Member of Congress Meet & Greet on Capitol Hill
• 3:30 pm Capitol Tour
For over 40 years we have taken that slogan seriously as we work to improve the industry’s voice in federal legislation, education, and communication. This is “your” national towing association. www.traaonline.com/hillday
BY MICHELLE SUKOW ///
MThrills Don’t Pay the Bills: A Growing Threat
y guys love recoveries! I mean, whose guys don’t?
The bigger the mess, the more twisted the wreck, the greater the challenge, the better. It is the adrenaline rush of the industry, hooking up overturned rigs, running the rotators, and showing off what the team and equipment can do. However, here’s the part they do not always see. While they’re fired up to roll, I’m staring down the numbers, wondering if we will ever get paid for the
job. And too often lately, the answer is no. That is the side of this business only the owner feels. As this issue gets worse, saying no gets easier.
The Owner’s Math vs. the Operator’s Thrill
When one of your trucks leaves the yard, the costs are already stacked: fuel, insurance, payroll, maintenance, storage space, not to mention the price tag on the truck itself. A heavy-duty tow truck is not pocket change. When a bill goes unpaid,
that is not just a “missed check.” That is money we have already spent, and how much time will it take not to recover from it?
Tow operators see the recovery as a win. We see the unpaid invoice as a hit we may not bounce back from it. That is the constant tug-of-war towing companies are facing, and this threat is growing.
The Salvage Illusion
We hear it all the time: “At least you
get the salvage.”
The reality is that an abandoned vehicle left on our lot might bring in $500 at the scrap yard. On the surface, that sounds like a win. Nonetheless, here’s what has already gone out the door long before that check arrives:
• Loss of recovery expenses
• Time and labor for photographs, detailed paperwork, and lien notifications
• Storage costs while the vehicle sits unclaimed
• Cleanup and environmental responsibilities that often exceed the scrap value itself
When the process is complete, the bottom line is clear. You have lost more money than you have recovered. Salvage is not a financial cushion anymore.
The Courtroom Reality
Could you take unpaid bills to small claims court? Absolutely. Will it fix anything? Not really.
Here is how it typically plays out:
• You pay fees, sometimes attorney’s fees, and spend hours you will never get back.
• Even if you win, collecting is another battle.
• Meanwhile, the customer paints themselves as the victim and your company as the villain.
So now you have wasted money chasing money and are still left holding the bag.
The Domino Effect
Here is what unpaid invoices really mean:
• Rates go up for the people who do pay.
• Cash flow tightens, which means fewer upgrades, less training, and harder staffing decisions.
• Morale takes a hit because my guys want the action, and we must hold them back.
We are not trying to kill their spirit. We are trying to keep the business alive.
Why Am I Speaking Up?
I was inspired to write this after reading a Facebook post by Wayne’s Towing & Recovery in Pennsylvania. It hit home because while there are so many prominent issues being addressed in our industry, I do not hear enough about this one.
I would like to see our associations step up with more help in this area. Recovery work for law enforcement should come with protections to guarantee payment. Trucking companies should not only be required to carry proper insurance, but it should be
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! (michellesukow@gmail.com)
enforced, so towing companies are not left footing the bill.
A Woman in the Owner’s Seat
Since I write about women in towing, being a female business owner adds another challenge. Some men do not like hearing “no” from a woman above them. They may not say it outright, but it is clear. Here, tough decisions must be made, and not everyone is going to like them. That’s business. It is not their lane to decide if the numbers work or not. It is the owners. It is the person making payroll. It is the one writing the insurance checks. It is the one who must decide if a job keeps them in the black or bleeds them dry. So, when we say no, it’s not personal. It’s survival. And if that stings, it is what it is.
The Bottom Line
Here is the truth I tell my team. Thrills don’t pay the bills. Until we have better protections and proper insurance enforcement, towing companies will increasingly pass on, not because we cannot handle them, but because we cannot afford to keep giving our work away for free. I love this industry. I love the grit, the toughness, and yes, the thrill of a big recovery. However, as an owner, I must see the whole picture. And the whole picture says this, unpaid work is slowly crushing good companies. It is becoming a bigger issue every day. It is time we stopped pretending salvage will cover it, stop letting unpaid invoices slide, and start demanding the protection we deserve. Why? When the trucks don’t roll, it’s not just the towing operators who lose out…. It is the entire community waiting on the side of the road.
BY DAN MESSINA ///
Reality Check
RECENTLY WHEN DRAFTING MY ARTICLE ABOUT RETIREMENT, I realized it is about time for me to retire too. However, what would become of industry ICONs if they started to retire? I would like to reflect on an ICON that got me started in the towing industry, and who takes his place when he retires.
INSIGHTFULTALK
BY DAN MESSINA ///
After 22 years in the computer industry, I spent another thirty-five years within the towing industry. I worked for EDS, a computer company which was owned by Ross Perot. I was going from the white-collar industry to the bluecollar industry. The first thing I was told to do was attend the Baltimore Tow Show. It was the biggest industry show in towing, and I was told to look for a crazy guy running around in a doctor’s jacket with towing patches all over it while sporting a stethoscope wrapped around his neck. Sure enough, there was a gentleman fitting that description in the middle of the showroom floor. He had a big smile on his face and was surrounded by towers. I knew then I had to meet D.J Harrington. I did not realize what an impact he would have on my 35-year towing career.
I started holding seminars for trade
shows: American Towman Trade Shows, Tow Times Trade Shows, and Tow Professional Trade Shows. As my seminar at all those shows got started, there was D.J. standing in the back of the room with a smile on his face giving me encouragement. At many of the seminars, he would introduce me as the speaker for the class. DJ put me in front of Doc from American Towman, Clarissa, from Tow Times, and Darian with Tow Professional magazine. It did not take long to realize that D.J. knew everyone. As time went on, D.J. and I did some public speaking events. Our friendship grew, and it allowed me to accomplish a few of the following. I started and ran a tow company without towing experience. I started one of the largest towing associations in the US with an operating budget of $225,000 a year for the past 10 years. I received the American Towman’s, Towman of the Year award in 2009. I founded Tow Trax, a digital dispatch system
with several thousand towers using our app. And last but certainly not least, I authored articles for American Towman magazine, Tow Times, and the Tow Professional magazine. My friendship with D.J. put me in front of all the big players in the towing industry. As a result of his friendship, I had a successful career in the towing industry.
Who is D.J. Harrington?
I do not know how D.J. got involved in towing, but I will tell you one thing, he knows everyone in the industry. He is inspiring and shows great leadership and because of that everyone wants to be around him. Whether he is just talking to towers or working at someone’s booth at a show, his charismatic personality is inspiring no matter who he is talking to or just being around. His overconfidence led to his long-term success in the industry. Some of his best traits are his generosity, warm-heartedness, and supportiveness to anyone he is helping. His work ethic is second to none, which is why all he touched respect him.
I had the opportunity to visit the Towing Hall of Fame in Chattanooga Tennessee, and I walked through the Hall looking at all the people that were honored with their picture hanging on the wall. I recognized a lot of people, and I tried to figure out how they got on the wall. I do not know what the
criteria to be honored is, but I do know that D.J., even though he may not have owned a tow company, has impacted
"Some of his best traits are his generosity, warm-heartedness, and supportiveness to anyone he is helping. His work ethic is second to none, which is why all he touched respect him."
the industry more than half the people hanging on the wall.
D.J., as I said, had a significant impact on thousands of towers. Certainly, me. I realize that as I push 80 years old and have trouble attending tow shows that there are lots of people who also fall into that category. D.J. is one who is also pushing eighty, and at some point, he will be limited to his show attendance. You ask, whom do the new towers now attending the shows look up to and whom do they turn to, for getting the things needed to survive in this industry?
I miss not attending the shows and
not seeing the smiling guy with Dr’s. jacket, and a stethoscope while roaming the shows. If this magazine gets in front of 25,000 towers, 24,772 know D.J. Harrington. If you want to meet him just flip forward a few pages and read his article.
I look back at my successful working career and the two people that had a considerable influence in it. There’s Ross Perot who was a Founder of one of the largest computer companies in the world, also ran for president of the U.S. years ago, and D.J. Harrington.
D.J., YOU’RE THE WINNER! Thank You for being a friend to me.
BY D.J. HARRINGTON CSP ///
A Tower’s DASH
NOTHING IN THIS LIFE IS PROMISED TO ANY OF US. You’re here one minute and gone the next. The news is full of stories about young and old who have passed. We don’t know the time when we will have breathed our last breath nor when we will have completed our last tow. It could be five minutes from now or years from now.
FUEL4THOUGHT
BY D.J. HARRINGTON CSP ///
No matter when you’re called home, all of us will one day meet our Maker. In the meantime, how we work toward helping others is how we will be remembered. When your time comes, how do you want to be remembered? When I was asked several years ago to eulogize someone within the industry, I found a simple poem, “The Dash”. Originally written by Linda Ellis, her poem struck a nerve with me how I might remember this person within the towing industry. Over the years, it’s prompted me to wonder how I would be remembered after I’m gone. Linda’s
message then was simple.
However, after what happened last week, some people seem to be happy while others are sad. When the Lord says my time is up, I hope that those people remaining behind, the family, friends and clients know that they meant everything to me during my lifetime. It’s my hope that those whom I employed through the years also know that I wanted the best for them. I hope they will say that I had their backs and appreciated everything they did for me and my company.
Years back, Linda Ellis created a
poetic masterpiece when she penned what was eulogized at a friend’s funeral. As she listened, she heard that individual talk about date of birth, but what mattered most was the dash between those years until the death occurred. As Linda continues her poem, she reiterates that it doesn’t matter how much we create in our lifetime, cars, house or cash but how we live our life. Basically, how we spend our time from birth to death.
Several times during my lifetime, I have used something like Linda’s Dash poem for some of our Towers. Each of them gave so much to this industry, and I wanted to explain their legacy as performed during their lifetime. They were special people to me, and I wanted to describe their DASH to others. Here’s what I read after delivering their eulogies.
My Tower’s Dash
I heard of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend, He referred to the dates on his tombstone from the beginning to the end.
He noted that first came his date of birth and spoke the following information with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all for a tower was the DASH between those years.
For it matters not how much we own: amount of buildings, special industry trucks, the cash.
What matters is how we live and love and how we spend our Tower’s DASH. So, think about this long and hard.
Are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left in a tower’s life that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough to consider what’s true and real, And always try to understand the way our customers might feel,
And be less quick to anger, and show appreciation more,
And love the people in our lives like we’ve never loved before.
If we treat dispatchers and drivers with respect, and more often wear a smile
Remembering that this Tower’s DASH might only last a little while.
So, when your eulogy’s being read with your Tower’s actions to be rehashed,
Would you be proud of the things they say about how you spent your Tower’s DASH?
The last line of My Tower’s Dash asked an important question. Would you be proud of anything said about you? It’s my prayer that you will consider your Tower’s Dash. I promise, you will have a dash one day! How would you like to be remembered when your time comes to leave this earth? Is it for the fame because you built your company
from the ground up? Perhaps you hired so many of your competitors’ people because just about every local tower wants to drive for you? Maybe you are known for your easy-going attitude or paying your people more money.
Or perhaps you are a secondgeneration tower but have multiplied or diversified what you inherited. That happened in my family because my oldest brother’s children have done that with Harrington Construction Company in New Jersey. There are many ways to create a memorable dash for towers. The main thing is that you want to be remembered for doing good. If you feel you’re good with your tower’s dash the way it is now, that’s great. Just continue what you’re doing. However, if you feel your dash needs to be rewritten or isn’t complete, you can start working today toward how you want to be remembered. It’s never too late to work on your DASH.
See you on the next podcast.
The Survivor Fund
The “Survivor Fund” was created in 2006 to complement the International Towing and Recovery Museum’s Wall of the Fallen. This fund was established to help those families who have lost a loved one in the line of service.
A Survivor Fund committee was formed of people from all over the United States from the towing industry. The committee is given the information regarding the fallen and the application is processed within 24 hours of receipt. Once the decision is made, a check is sent right away to the family to assist with immediate nancial issues during this tragic time in their lives.
Company owners, family members, or friends can submit the application for bene ts on behalf of the family of the deceased. The application can be found on the website at www.thesurvivorfund.com and can be submitted by mail, fax, or e-mail.
Seventeen years of service to the towing and recovery industry worldwide
Managed by industry professionals
Pledges replenish funds and allow payout growth
$7,500 bene t, $15,000 for museum members
Immediate funds to help at the time of tragedy
Funded by donations only
Hundreds of families supported Tiered system allows payout increases based on reserves
Hundreds of thousands of dollars paid out to date
To ensure the longevity of these bene ts as we work to build a perpetual fund, we are asking each person, company and organization in the industry to participate in supporting the Survivor Fund and these families when a tragedy occurs. Your pledge to become a Survivor Fund Continuing Support Partner represents a commitment to our industry.
As a Continuing Support Partner, you will receive an e-mail from the Survivor Fund when Survivor Fund Continuing Support
a tragedy occurs and meets the governing guidelines of the Survivor Fund for disbursement. As always, the ITRHFM Survivor Fund will handle direct payment to the families. We will simply solicit your contribution in the pledged amount to replenish and build our fund after each approved payout. The e-mail you receive will provide information on the current tragedy as well as information on how to remit the payment to honor your pledge.
Make your pledge today to support our industry.
Built for the Industry, Evolving with You
As the towing and recovery industry continues to change, one name will remain constant: Towbook.
Proudly the largest independently owned software provider for towing and roadside companies nationwide, Towbook has stayed true to the same core values since 2007: listening to our customers and adapting to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Everything we build is focused on helping you run a more efficient, profitable operation. Our features are always expanding, and our pursuit of the ultimate solution never stops. As we like to say: ‘there is no finish line’.
Features
Towbook offers a complete suite of solutions designed to keep towing and roadside companies operating at peak efficiency.
Dispatching
With Towbook, managing every job
in one place is simple. Our powerful Dispatching tab lets you assign calls to drivers and track them in real-time from start to finish.
Paired with our mobile apps for iOS and Android, Towbook gives you the flexibility to run your business from the road; a feature thousands of owneroperators rely on every day.
With Towbook, you can:
• Use our Plate-to-VIN technology to populate vehicle information
• Request customer locations if they’re lost
• Automatically calculate mileage
• Chat with your team in real-time
• See driver availability at a glance
• Provide secure portals for police, body shops, and dealerships
• Accept work requests directly through your website or Facebook page
Towbook also integrates seamlessly with all major motor clubs, so if you’re contracted with them, jobs flow straight into your system. Plus, our out-of-
network program allows you to receive overflow work from motor clubs when they can’t find an in-network provider— expanding your opportunities and keeping your trucks rolling.
Damage Claim Mitigation
We understand that damage claims can be costly, and even more frustrating when towing or roadside companies are unfairly blamed for damage they didn’t cause.
That’s why we’ve built tools to help our clients protect themselves and push back against false claims. Some of the solutions available today include:
• Photo Uploads: Capture and upload photos that are automatically dated, time-stamped, and geo-coded. Each photo also records the call status at the time it was taken.
• Video Uploads: Add 10-second videos to calls to document preexisting damage, or make video capture part of your standard pickup process.
• Vehicle Damage Reports: Generate detailed reports that identify vehicle damage and require customer signoff. These reports can also be emailed directly to insurance companies or customers when needed.
• Damage Waivers: Set account- or service-specific terms and conditions, including invoice-based, accountbased, or reason-specific waivers.
• Digital Signatures: Customers can
review the terms and digitally sign the invoice directly on your mobile device, with the option for remote approval as well.
Impound/Storage Lot Management
Effortlessly manage all stored and impounded vehicles with Towbook.
Our system automatically calculates storage fees based on your preferences—or you can configure them to comply with state and local regulations.
With Towbook, you can:
• Quickly release vehicles to customers
• Manage multiple lots or track vehicles stored at third-party facilities
• Transfer vehicles from your lot to another location using our tow out capability
• Auto-fill state and local forms with call information & set reminders for them
• Provide police or private property accounts with a secure portal to look up vehicles on your lot
Mapping & Mileage
Towbook seamlessly integrates with Google Maps to handle all your GPS and mileage needs. Key mapping features include:
• Automatic/Deadhead Mileage
Calculations: Mileage is calculated automatically—no manual entry required.
• Built-in GPS Mapping: View all drivers and job locations via Towbook’s integrated GPS, even if you don’t use a third-party provider.
• Automatic Address Completion:
Save time with auto-suggested addresses on both mobile and web apps.
• Predicted Arrival Times: Estimate driver arrival for each call, helping dispatchers and managers efficiently assign jobs.
• Call & Driver Replay: Review the exact route taken for any call—ideal
INGENUITY WITH AND A DEDICATION TO CUSTOMER SERVICE!
TOWING SOFTWARE
defending against damage claims, and training staff.
• Real-Time Traffic View: Access local traffic conditions anytime to better plan routes and avoid delays.
Private Property Tools
Towbook provides specialized tools to help you manage private property contracts and maintain transparency with your customers.
• Authorized Vehicle List: Keep track of vehicles approved to be on each property.
• Configurable Property Tags: Assign tags to PPI accounts to enforce property-specific rules.
• Property Manager Portal: Offer a customizable portal where PPI accounts can request or view services.
• Parking Permit Management: Enable accounts to purchase and manage parking permits directly through your system.
• Digital Stickering: Create and track digital warning stickers until the issue is resolved or a call is generated.
Transport Options
If regularly transporting vehicles is a part of your operations, you’ll be excited to learn that you’re able to easily bill for hourly rate items, such as port-toport, add multiple vehicles to a call, and manage multiple destination addresses.
Financial & Billing Tools
While Towbook is not an accounting
software, it offers a range of features to streamline billing and integrate with your existing accounting systems.
Commission & Payroll Reporting: Automatically calculate driver commissions based on percentages, flat rates, or per-service items.
Configurable Invoices & Statements: Create, email, or print invoices and statements, and reconcile them as payments are received.
Payment Verification Tracking: Track and confirm each payment to ensure funds are received.
Audit & Lock Functionality: Review calls for accuracy and lock them to prevent future edits.
Motor Club Direct Billing &
Payment Importing: Quickly bill motor club jobs and import payments directly into Towbook.
• Financial Reporting: Access various reports to monitor the financial health of your business.
• Accident Reports: Build detailed reports for heavy insurance jobs to speed up payment processing.
• QuickBooks Integration: Seamlessly push invoices and payments to QuickBooks.
Fleet Management
Your fleet is the backbone of your business, enabling you to serve customers when they need you most. With the investment you’ve made in your vehicles, effective management is essential. Towbook offers a suite of tools to streamline fleet operations:
• Pre-Trip Inspection Management: Conduct customizable inspections of trucks and equipment before or after each shift using Towbook’s mobile app and Equipment Inspection tool.
• Fleet Reporting: Monitor which vehicles are the most and least profitable for better decision-making.
• Automatic Truck & Driver Assignments: Save time by autoassigning team members to specific vehicles for each call.
• Truck Expense Tracking & Reporting: Record and track expenses such as fuel, repairs, and maintenance, including receipt uploads.
• Maintenance Tracking: Log service dates and schedule future maintenance
to keep your fleet in top condition.
Customer Experience Features
In a service-based industry like towing, providing an exceptional customer experience is key to keeping clients coming back. Towbook offers a range of tools to help you maintain high service standards and celebrate a job well done:
• Roadside.io: Deliver an “Uber-like” experience with cutting-edge customer experience tools at your fingertips.
• Customer Satisfaction Surveys: Send surveys automatically after each job and receive real-time alerts for any negative feedback, allowing you to proactively improve the customer experience.
• Driver Ratings: Collect ratings based on survey responses, helping you recognize and reward your topperforming drivers.
• Job Progress Texts: Keep customers informed with real-time updates via text message.
• Google/Yelp Review Links: Easily direct customers to leave reviews on your Google and Yelp pages.
• Website Integration: Embed customer surveys directly on your website and manage responses anytime.
Law Enforcement Tools & Features
Towbook provides a robust solution for police departments nationwide, enabling seamless communication with towing companies on their rotation. Key features include:
• Police Electronic Dispatching: Receive calls digitally from contracted law enforcement agencies.
• Police Rotation: Easily participate in your agency’s rotation schedule.
• Real-Time Impounded Vehicle Sharing: Share vehicle status updates instantly with law enforcement agencies.
Customer Committment
Towbook is dedicated to providing the tools and features you need to run your business efficiently and successfully. We continually strive to deliver the best experience, not just through innovative features and product updates, but also through our unwavering commitment to customer service.
Our complimentary 24/7 support ensures you always have help when you need it most. And when you choose Towbook, you won’t be navigating software adoption alone, you’ll have a dedicated account concierge guiding you every step of the way, from setup to daily operations.
Tow Professional Offer
Towbook offers a 90-day free trial for all Tow Professional subscribers, simply scan the QR code or visit: www.towbook.com/signup/ towprofessional to use this offer!
Website: https://towbook.com Inquiries: support@towbook.com 24/7/365 Support: (810) 320-5063
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
The Towing Professional’s Guide to Management Software Selection
TBY AUTURA
he towing and recovery industry has long depended on manual processes to manage dispatch, accounting, impound lot operations, and other daily business — but today’s technological advancements offer businesses scalable, more efficient alternatives.
According to the 2025 State of Towing Annual Report recently released by Autura, 80% of towing professionals
reported using a Towing Management Software (TMS) solution to handle their operations.
Modern TMS features and functionality are streamlining towing and recovery workflows out on the road and in the back office, from dispatch and customer service, to marketing, accounting, and impound lot management and auctions. The shift reflects a growing recognition that technology can help towing businesses
of any size do more with less effort — and faster.
Ready to reap the benefits of Towing Management Software? This 4-step guide offers a practical approach to determining what you need and selecting the right solution for your business.
4-Step Guide to Help You Select the Right Towing Software
Step 1: Define your business needs
Make a list of standard and unique aspects of your business. Think about the scale of your business, each service you offer, and the equipment and tools — physical and technological — that you work with in your daily operations. The Towing Management Software you choose should simplify your current workflows, not complicate them. Look for a solution that will optimize existing processes and adapt as your business grows.
Step 2: Identify key features:
The best Towing Management Software should offer features that solve current business challenges while also providing you with opportunity to expand. Specifically, look for:
Core Operational Features:
• Robust digital dispatching
• GPS and telematics / vehicle tracking
• Impound / storage lot management
• Private property towing support
TOWING SOFTWARE
Administrative Tools:
• Built-in invoice and payment processing
• Reports center – allowing you to view critical data on truck and operator activity, finance and billing, equipment and service details, etc.
• Integrations with tools and partners you currently work with — accounting and payroll software, GPS and fleet tracking, motor clubs, insurance providers, etc.
Compliance and Security:
• Cloud-based (SaaS) architecture
• SOC 2 compliance and secure data handling
• Continuous software updates and enhancements
Accessibility:
• User-friendly desktop and mobile interfaces
Step 3: Look Beyond the Feature Lists
You want the best return on
investment — this means looking at details beyond a product feature checklist. Consider other critical factors including:
• Pricing Models: Extensive feature sets frequently come with higher costs. You need a TMS with a pricing model that’s right-sized for your business yet flexible enough to grow alongside you. Look for providers who offer additional services, modules, and add-ons you don’t need to pay for right away, but can invest in as your demand, geographic area served, or service offerings grow.
• Implementation and Onboarding: Some providers will sell you software and send you on your way. Seek a Towing Management Software
vendor with a proven approach to onboarding you and your team. Ask whether the software includes built-in training, self-service learning resources, clear product documentation, data migration assistance, and ongoing software updates that refine functionality and security while continuously innovating to meet industry demand.
• Customer Support: This is critical. Towing professionals are busy and when you need help with the systems that power your business, downtime is costly and troubleshooting on your own is a waste of time and money. Choose a TMS provider with dedicated Customer Success and Support teams that offer responsive
service and proactive guidance from day one.
• Ease-of-Use: TMS interfaces should have logical navigation, quick access to key workflows, strong search capabilities, and FAQs.
Step 4: Narrow and Visually Compare Your Options:
With your needs and feature list in hand, start researching providers. Use search terms like:
• towing management software
• towing company software
• TMS
• towing and recovery software
• software for towing companies
• towing business applications
• towing technology
• towing SaaS
Browse forums like Reddit, explore industry associations, software review sites, and publications that include sections designed to help businesses
evaluate tools like Tow Professional’s Software Spotlight.
Ask colleagues about the towing software they use — what they like, what they don’t, and what they wish was different about their TMS of choice.
As you gather information, try mapping your findings on a visual comparison chart. Here’s a simple framework to help you evaluate top contenders:
Conclusion
Use your shortlist of potential Towing Management Software providers to drive the next steps. It’s time to reach out to the sales teams to request a demo and get answers to any outstanding questions unanswered through your research.
of Your Camera Decision
Accessing Footage When You Need It and Easily Send It!
BY TIM SMITH
In the high-stakes world of towing, every second counts. Whether responding to a roadside emergency, handling a customer dispute, or defending against a liability claim, towing companies operate in an environment where transparency, safety, and efficiency are paramount. One of the most powerful tools to emerge in recent years is the integration of camera systems on tow trucks. But it’s not just about having cameras, it’s about being able to access that footage easily and quickly when it matters most.
Perhaps the most immediate benefit of rapid camera footage access is the ability to provide irrefutable evidence in the event of a claim or dispute. Tow truck operators are often accused of causing damage to vehicles, improper towing, or even unsafe driving. In these situations, being able to retrieve and share video footage within minutes can mean the difference between a costly legal battle and a swift resolution. For example, if a customer claims their vehicle was damaged during a tow, managers can instantly pull up footage
showing the vehicle’s condition before, during, and after the tow. This visual documentation not only protects the company from false claims but also reassures customers that their concerns are taken seriously and addressed transparently. With Azuga, your cameras automatically take a snapshot when your PTO is engaged.
Faster Insurance Processes and Reduction in Claims
Insurance claims are a fact of life in the towing industry, but they don’t have
Azuga’s camera systems designed for towing fleets offer cloud-based storage, mobile access, and advanced search features.
to be a headache. Insurance companies increasingly require video evidence to process claims efficiently. When towing companies can quickly provide high-quality footage, it speeds up the claims process, reduces the likelihood of drawn-out disputes, and can even lower insurance premiums.
Insurance providers have recognized that fleets with accessible camera footage are less risky to insure. The ability to email or upload relevant
POWER YOU CAN DEPEND ON.
video clips directly to an insurer, sometimes within minutes of an incident, demonstrates professionalism and preparedness. This can lead to faster settlements and, in many cases, significant savings on insurance costs.
Protect Your Drivers and Your Business
Tow truck drivers work in challenging, high-pressure environments. Accidents can happen
DC Output Port • 2 USB Ports
USB-C Recharging Model JNC345 12V Lithium Jump Starter
Towing operations that employ Jump-N-Carry jump starters know that no starting task is too daunting. They know from experience that every aspect of a Jump-N-Carry is designed to deliver extreme jump starting power, from the battery to the heavy-duty cables. Jump-N-Carry is all about power delivery. For information on Jump-N-Carry jump starters, visit cloreautomotive.com • 3000A – Effective to -23˚F • 550 Start Assist Amps • 40” Cable Reach
TOWING SOFTWARE
in an instant, and memories can be unreliable. With easy access to camera footage, companies can quickly review incidents, verify facts, and exonerate drivers who are wrongly accused.
Consider a scenario where a driver is blamed for a collision or accused of reckless behavior. Instead of relying on conflicting witness statements or incomplete reports, managers can review the footage and see exactly what happened. In many documented cases, video evidence has cleared drivers of wrongdoing, saving companies from expensive lawsuits and protecting their reputation.
Better Safety and Training Moments
Quick access to video footage isn’t just about defense, it’s also a proactive tool for improving safety and training. Managers can review footage of nearmisses, unsafe practices, or exemplary performance and use these real-world examples in training sessions. This helps new drivers learn best practices and reinforces a culture of safety across the
fleet. Moreover, knowing that footage is easily accessible encourages drivers to adhere to safety protocols and company policies, fostering accountability and professionalism.
Be More Efficient and Reduce Downtime
Time is money in the towing business. When incidents occur, every minute spent searching for footage is a minute lost from productive work. Modern
camera systems with cloud-based storage and intuitive search features allow managers to retrieve specific clips in seconds, not hours. This efficiency extends to routine operations as well. For example, if a driver needs to verify that a vehicle was properly secured or that a particular procedure was followed, they can quickly access the relevant footage. This reduces paperwork, streamlines workflows, and keeps trucks on the road instead of tied up in the office.
Building Trust with Customers and Partners
Transparency is a powerful differentiator in the towing industry. When customers know that every tow is recorded and that footage is readily available, it builds trust and confidence in your services. This is especially important for commercial clients, municipalities, and insurance partners who demand accountability and reliability. Quick access to footage allows companies to proactively share video evidence with customers,
demonstrating a commitment to honesty and high standards. This not only resolves disputes but also enhances the company’s reputation and can lead to more business through positive word-ofmouth.
Keep Insurance Company Happy
As camera systems become standard in commercial vehicles, regulatory bodies and insurance companies are increasingly expecting towing companies to maintain and provide footage upon request. Easy access ensures compliance with these requirements, avoiding fines or penalties and ensuring that your company remains in good standing with regulators and partners.
Exoneration in Legal Disputes
In one documented case, a towing company faced a lawsuit after a customer claimed to have been injured during a tow. The company was able
to quickly retrieve and share footage showing that the incident did not occur as described. The case was dismissed, saving the company thousands in legal fees and protecting its reputation.
Azuga Has the Newest Camera Technology in the Market:
Azuga’s camera systems designed for towing fleets offer cloud-based storage, mobile access, and advanced search features. Managers can access footage from any device, filter by date, time, or event, and share clips with a few clicks. This eliminates the need for manual downloads, physical storage, or complicated retrieval processes. Some systems even integrate with GPS and telematics, allowing managers to pull up footage based on vehicle location or specific incidents, further streamlining the process.
The Bottom Line
In today’s towing industry, having cameras on your trucks is no longer
enough. The real value lies in being able to access that footage easily and quickly, whenever and wherever it’s needed. From protecting your drivers and business to building trust with customers and partners, rapid video access is a competitive advantage that no modern towing company should be without.
PPI to Parking Management: Why?… Why Not???
The innovative PatrolWorks with LPR (PW+LPR) solution equips you to grow –extending your business from Private Property Impounding to full-service parking management. PatrolWorks provides a comprehensive solution – integrating, on-line digital permitting with regular enforcement. Using the vehicle license plate (LP) as
the permit enables the use of advanced license plate recognition (LPR) technology. However, the PatrolWorks mobile app (PWMobile) makes it practical to launch implementation at almost no cost - with only (refurbished?) tablets or existing mobile devices –retaining a seamless transition to LPR as the business grows.
Why Implement PatrolWorks?
#1 – Fuel growth: The key to growth starts with delivering benefits to customers PatrolWorks provides the engine and the fuel for you to grow in the market. Your customers realize significant benefits.
In addition, with periodic patrolling, your customers no longer need to rely on “hope” as their strategy for policy compliance.
#2 - Improve operational productivity: PatrolWorks improves safety and lowers costs.
Using LPR or PWMobile, patrolling efficiency is far superior to an “Easter Egg Hunt” looking for expired stickers. The risks in walking lots at dusk or at night is replaced with a “spotter” inside a vehicle scanning LPs.
With PatrolWorks, the cost of mistakes can be eliminated – i.e., the cost of towing a vehicle to the impound lot and then returning it to the owner, who along with the property manager is now quite upset.
#3 – Increase margins: The economics for you are compelling –including passive recurring revenue Outlining the financial benefits:
• Multi-Family Residential Properties: As an example, if you are impounding 200 vehicles per month, the population of vehicles in the lots will be around 20,000. If properties implement paid permits at only $10 per month (like pet fees: $25 to $100/ mo.), the annual gross revenue would be $2.4 million. Processing fees would
add to your impounding revenue. Paid permitting would also generate funds for owners. This could be a “reserve”that you manage on the owner’s behalf for lot maintenance expenses such as resurfacing, striping, or lighting.
• Pay to Park Lots: Managing downtown “in and out” and special event lots could generate gross revenue of over $1,000/space per month (10 hrs. per day x $4/hr.). A portfolio of 20 lots, each with 20 spaces could generate over $6 million of gross revenue. With enforcement, the lot owner would realize higher returns, and you would earn attractive management fees (plus impounding).
#4 – Market leadership: PatrolWorks positions YOU to win in YOUR market with YOUR customers.
PatrolWorks offers exclusive rights for you in your market. With a complete offering for permitting and
enforcement, PatrolWorks equips you to build and manage the relationships with YOUR customers in YOUR market – independent of a permitting company where your role is unpredictable.
#5 – Ready to launch: The PatrolWorks team is standing by to help your team get started. We have a portfolio of marketing materials to assist your team – from customizable sales and marketing collateral to “explainer videos”. We also have model contracts that you can expeditiously review with your attorney and use to convert prospects into customers.
Why Not Implement PatrolWorks???
#1 – High cost? Start with the (free) Mobile App – PWMobile - And Transition to LPR
While LPR is more efficient, launching implementation with
PWMobile costs almost nothing and provides all you need for patrolling and enforcement. PWMobile includes two key capabilities:
• Browse Plates: Provides a searchable list of all plates in the lot with a valid permit. The driver can enter one or two characters from the license plate and all valid plates with those characters are shown to quickly determine if the vehicle has a valid permit. This functionality expedites the initial patrols through a lot. And after the driver/spotter becomes more familiar with the lot, he/she will soon know which vehicles “belong” based on previous patrols. This enables an even faster pace - working on an “exception basis”.
• Check Plate: Enables the driver to take a picture of the plate from PWMobile. PatrolWorks then deciphers the plate from the picture and returns the “validity” result. (Check Plate is also used in
conjunction with LPR to “double check” status before impounding.)
This functionality resolves any uncertainties. And Check Plate is still fast: 5 to 10 seconds per plate. Even without Browse Plates, a lot with 200 vehicles can be scanned in 30 minutes or less to validate license plates.
A driver with PWMobile is fully equipped to independently patrol, enter any new violations detected, and appropriately handle all violations. PatrolWorks, not dispatch, is the policy checker and protocol manager. PWMobile shows whether a vehicle is eligible for impounding (“Ready”), or not (“Waiting”).
PWMobile is a great fit for PPI companies where the driver in the tow truck is the one patrolling the lot for unauthorized vehicles.
#2 – Illegal to patrol? If needed, set up an independent company to patrol
In some markets, towing companies are not allowed to patrol. In these cases, a different business model is needed, for example:
• An independent Parking Management
Company (PMC) for sales and client relationships
• This PMC could operate the patrolling entity, or contract (cost-effectively) with a local security company to act as the authorized agent for the property
• Any violations would be forwarded to truck drivers in one or more different companies for impounding. The truck driver would see the vehicle and status listed in the Violations menu and use Check Plate to double check permit status.
#3 – Requirements are complex?
PatrolWorks is highly configurable to meet the diverse expectations of property owners
PatrolWorks is designed to handle parking management requirements by lot - including:
• Assigned spaces – e.g., in carports. PatrolWorks manages space availability and assignments. Assigned space information is included in the permit information provided in PWMobile
• All policies – scope extends beyond just permitting, to include ANY violation on ANY vehicle
• Violation consequences – spans
ticketing, booting, impounding, or a sequence of consequences based on a repeated occurrence – e.g., first ticketing then impounding
• Violation protocols – such as grace periods or pre-approvals
Violation Management (the integration of consequences and protocols) is essential. PatrolWorks tracks the status of each violation, determines whether it is appropriate to impound a vehicle, and communicates this to drivers.
#4 – How is the money handled?
PatrolWorks manages the financial transactions and has the appropriate liability insurance
Permit payments by vehicle owners are on-line through PatrolWorks. Payment by residents includes a monthly subscription option for higher cost permits (e.g., carports). The negotiated distribution of proceeds to property owners and the Parking Management Company (or PPI Company) is by an end-of-month ACH payment or check. PatrolWorks carries $1 million of management liability insurance that safeguards the flow of funds.
#5 – What does it take to implement? The PatrolWorks team is ready to help, but is not a substitute for building relationships with property owners in your market
As mentioned previously, PatrolWorks can help your team move forward very quickly with training and available “on-the-shelf” support materials.
However, the pace of implementation is often dependent on the local sales and marketing capabilities in the PPI organization. The major challenge is presenting the parking management opportunity to the decision-makers for the property. Existing “PPI relationships” with apartment managers at the site are generally insufficient –as these managers typically lack the authority to implement change.
The business decision becomes - does the upside potential of PatrolWorks make it worthwhile to recruit parking management sales resources (even part-time, commission-based?) to reach property owners and regional managers in property management companies. Some owners of PPI companies intend to take on this responsibility themselves. However, experience-to-date suggests that the operational demands of their “day job” overwhelm the best of intentions. Building any new business will require a commitment to invest in sales capability to drive success.
In summary, PW+LPR is the future of private property parking management. It is a very attractive service offering to your customers, and one that offers you the potential of a million-dollar upside with low financial commitment. With exclusive deployment rights, you will be able to grow profitably as the leader in your market – covering more lots, completing more impounds, and lowering operational costs. Your company will be positioned at the forefront of the $3 billion market for digital permitting while defending against incursions from permittingcentric competitors. Are you ready?
As Vince Lombardi noted: “The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary”. We get that …. But you can do it …. And we are standing by to help!
Multi-Family Communities Pay to Park Lots
To learn more: Call for more information (440) 498-1495 or visit www.patrolworksparkingsolutions.com
TOP3
Towing Accessories from the Team at Zip’s AW Direct
Vehicle breakdowns keep tow companies in business. Weather, accidents and mechanical failure all contribute to four-wheel litter on the highway. No matter the cause, cars need to be recovered, towed and relocated. That’s where you come in. Making that job easier is where Zip’s AW Direct comes in.
For your consideration, the team at Zip’s AW Direct has identified three
GUNIWHEEL Temporary Wheel Replacement
A GUNIWHEEL set is a great option to load vehicles with missing or stolen wheels. Available in three sizes, this temporary wheel replacement system features slotted mounting holes, so the rim can adjust to most lug patterns found on nearly all makes and models of cars, SUVs and light-duty pickup trucks out on the road today.
When paired with the companion GUNIHUB, the GUNIWHEEL 45 and 45S can also be used to mobilize stalled EVs, vehicles stuck in gear and barn finds with seized brakes. The GUNIHUB is a free-spinning hub adapter that attaches to a vehicle’s existing wheel studs. The GUNIWHEEL is then bolted to the adapter to provide mobility where it didn’t exist before.
essential tools tow companies should consider for any incident scene to keep their operators efficient and get them off the side of the road sooner. They are tow professionals, too, and they think you’ll spend less time clearing the clutter with these three options:
• GUNIWHEEL temporary wheel replacement system
• Control Arm Skates from ITI
• Tow dollies from either Collins Manufacturing or In The Ditch
This trifecta of towing aides can help you move vehicles which may not want to cooperate for a variety of reasons…An aluminum wheel sliding on ice and striking a curb, causing the rim to break…An EV with a dead battery and no means to recharge nearby…A front-end crash leaving broken suspension components. Those scenarios and more can all benefit from these top 3 recommendations from the staff at Zip’s. 1
Tow Dollies from Collins and In The Ditch
Zip’s AW Direct sells two options of tow dollies for use primarily with lightduty wreckers towing vehicles with significant tire and wheel damage. Both Collins Manufacturing and In The Ditch dollies offer 4.80 and 5.70 tire sizes with varying carrying capacities. Both styles disassemble for bracket storage on the deck of a light-duty wrecker or in an underbelly storage compartment.
Tow dollies allow the light-duty operator to fully suspend the casualty, placing an axle on the wrecker’s wheel lift and the other axle on the dolly. Prior to transport, all wheels should be secured with wheel lift straps and a steering wheel strap should be installed to prevent the front wheels from turning. Tow dollies are intended for short-term use, though some Collins dollies are rated for freeway speeds. In The Ditch dollies are limited to 50 mph.
2
ITI Control Arm Skate
The Control Arm Skate from ITI can also be used to move and load vehicles with wheel impairment issues or broken suspension components. Made from extruded plastic, the top of this patented skate has a pocket for the ball joint, while its rounded ends and slick surface allow for easy loading. Due to its patented design and construction, the skate slides across most surfaces and easily negotiates the approach lip of a car carrier bed or flatbed trailer.
ITI offers this skate in the standard dimensions of 19”L x 5.5”W x 5.5”H or the low profile option, which is 2” narrower and 2” shorter than the original. This smaller footprint allows the skate to be used on vehicles with tight clearance issues or custom cars with lower front valances. Once in position, both options of skates can be increased in height with nested extensions.
3
When it comes to towing and recovering damaged vehicles, you have options. That’s why Zip’s AW Direct offers more than 60,000 products from more than 400 vendors. Our dedicated team of professionals hopes you consider these three “must-have” solutions to the most common problems on the road today. Start shopping at www.Zips.com.
The Power of Pricing
Why an Auto Shop Owner Lost Half His Customers and Made More Money
In the competitive world of auto repair and towing, a common belief is that a low price is the key to attracting and keeping customers. For years, many shop owners have operated on this principle, often to their own detriment. They find themselves in a seemingly endless cycle of underpaying employees, struggling to retain talent, and serving customers who are more focused on a bargain than on quality.
This was the exact situation in which one company owner found himself. He was caught in a familiar trap: battling a high turnover rate for his technicians. Every time he hired someone with a good skill set, they would inevitably leave for a competitor offering better wages. His business was stuck in a cycle of recruiting, training, and losing talent, all while he blamed the larger job market.
However, the real problem wasn’t a lack of qualified people. The truth was far more straightforward and more painful to admit: his profitability was the issue. He was trying to pay below the market rate for skilled labor and was surprised when no one would stay. He was trying to compete on price, a strategy that was costing him the most valuable asset, his people.
His solution was radical and, to many, counterintuitive. He made a bold decision that changed the entire dynamic of his business when he raised his labor rate by a significant amount.
The Great Customer Exodus
Raising labor rates by $30 per hour had an immediate and predictable effect. The “bargain-hunters,” the customers who were only there for the lowest possible price, left. They were the ones who would argue about every charge and complain about the cost of quality service.
But those who remained were
different. They were the customers who valued reliability, speed, and exceptional work. They were business owners, fleet managers, and individuals who understood that the genuine cost of a repair isn’t the hourly rate; it’s the unscheduled downtime that can cripple their operations. They were happy to pay more for the peace of mind that comes with a job done right the first time. This strategic shift created a powerful new business model. The customers who were left were his best customers. They were loyal, profitable, and hugely appreciated his services. This is a classic example of the 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, in action. In many businesses, 20% of the clients generate 80% of the revenue. By raising his prices, this owner intentionally filtered out the low-value clients to focus on the top tier.
The Ripple Effect of Investing in Your People
With the increased revenue, the owner was finally able to pay his technicians what they were truly worth. Within six months, the transformation was remarkable.
• Technician Wages: His techs were now earning 20% above the market average, making his shop a desirable place to work.
• Talent Acquisition: The shop was no longer chasing talent. Instead, it had a waiting list of applicants.
• Operational Excellence: The business was fully staffed and welltooled, leading to faster turnaround times and a higher quality of work.
• Increased Profitability: Despite losing half its customers, the shop’s revenue soared by 40%.
• Reduced Headaches: The customerrelated problems and complaints were cut in half, allowing the owner to focus
on growing the business rather than putting out fires.
This story shows that when you value your work, your customers will too. It also highlights a critical business lesson: you get the customers and employees you pay for.
When you’re known for playing well, running a professional operation, and standing by your work, you build a reputation that attracts the best people. In turn, these great people deliver the kind of high-quality service that attracts and keeps the best customers. It’s a virtuous cycle that begins with one simple, courageous decision: to charge what your magnificent work is worth.
That’s an interesting statement, and I can see why someone would make that connection. Being the price leader, the lowest-priced provider, can influence the quality of work. While it might seem like an effective way to attract customers, it can also create a host of problems that directly affect the quality of your service.
The Vicious Cycle of Low Pricing
When a shop or tow company is the cheapest option, it’s often a race to the bottom. To keep profit, the business must cut costs wherever possible. This usually leads to a vicious cycle that erodes quality:
John Borowski
• Low Labor Rates: To keep prices low, businesses often pay their technicians or tow truck operators less than the market rate. This makes it challenging to attract and retain skilled, experienced professionals. The people who are willing to work for low wages are often less experienced, less efficient, or don’t care as much about the quality of their work.
• Cutting Corners on Parts and Equipment: A low-price strategy might also involve using cheaper, lower-quality parts or neglecting to invest in new, essential tools and equipment. This can lead to repairs that don’t last and a higher chance of a job being done incorrectly.
• Rushed Work: To make up for low margins, a business might push employees to complete jobs faster, leading to rushed, careless work. This increases the risk of mistakes and can compromise safety.
Ultimately, a price leader often attracts customers who are looking for the cheapest option, not the best. These customers are more likely to complain about minor issues and less likely to be loyal. The business then finds itself stuck serving a demanding, low-profit client base while struggling to deliver a high-quality product.
The Alternative: Leading with Value
Instead of being the price leader, many successful businesses choose to be the value leader. This means their prices may not be the lowest, but they offer the best value for money. They focus on delivering exceptional quality, reliability, and customer service. This approach creates a virtuous cycle that reinforces quality:
• Investing in Top Talent: A business that charges for its value can pay its employees competitive, or even above-market, wages. This attracts the best mechanics and tow operators who are knowledgeable, efficient, and take pride in their work.
• Using Quality Parts and Equipment: Higher revenue allows for investment in better parts, stateof-the-art diagnostic tools, and proper training. This ensures that every job is
done to the highest standard, leading to fewer comebacks and more satisfied customers.
• Building a Strong Reputation: A reputation for quality attracts customers who are willing to pay for ability and reliability. These are the customers who become repeat clients and refer to others, helping the
business grow in a sustainable way. In this model, the price becomes a reflection of the quality of the work, not a race to the bottom. A business that focuses on value can justify its pricing because it delivers a superior product. This builds trust and loyalty, which are far more valuable than a few dollars saved.
Generate more REVenue with SafeAll’s portable EV charger. It’s compatible with all makes and models of EVs.
Ready to work out of the box. Charge numerous vehicles per shift.
Support for Traffic Incident Management Continues to be a Priority
BY CYNTHIA J. MARTINEAU AND BRUCE BENDER
February 6th, 2021 was like most south Florida afternoons on Interstate 95 near Delray Beach. A light rain was falling and a crash with minor injuries was moved to the left shoulder of the roadway, where the Florida Highway Patrol and Fire-Rescue were on scene. The FDOT safety service patrol, called Road Rangers, were upstream a short distance displaying a move over
message on their vehicle message board. Even though things were on the shoulder, the Road Ranger had a dozen cones out just to make drivers more aware of the activities ahead.
Adam Marcus, a 15-year veteran of Emerald Towing was operating a rollback wrecker and he was on scene at the request of FHP, wearing his uniform and ANSI 3 compliant raingear. A work zone lane shift meant there was an extra-wide shoulder that provided
Marcus with plenty of room to work. He was probably 8 feet away from the nearest travel lane, equivalent to a lane plus-1 scenario. He was on the traffic side of the truck to release the hookup bridle to recover the first vehicle when he heard the ominous screeching sound of an out-of-control vehicle. As he turned his head toward the noise, he saw the vehicle coming at him and he instinctively jumped onto the bed of the truck at the last second. The vehicle
Adam Marcus’ near miss incident scene.
SOURCE: EMERALD TOWING, FL
spun counterclockwise, just missing him as it hit the cab of the tow truck. Adam was a little banged up from the jump and sprained his arm but thankfully was not seriously injured.
Responder struck by deaths rightfully get our attention. But there are likely many more uncounted injuries and even more near miss incidents, like the one involving Adam. They all combine to paint a fateful picture of danger faced by all incident responders, particularly those from the towing and recovery industry. Working near moving traffic is dangerous, regardless of the mission, and irrespective of the traffic incident management (TIM) strategies being used.
Safety is a key part of every responder discipline. While there are many missions at the scene of a traffic incident, going home at the end of your shift is the common goal among police, fire, EMS, transportation and towing responders. Traffic incident management (TIM) has taught us all that working together in a coordinated way can improve safety and help clear the roadway more quickly.
The state of the practice for TIM is the National TIM Responder Training Program. Created by responders, for responders, the training has been the standard for working those unplanned roadway events that happen hundreds of times every day around the country.
Over the past 13 years, the training has rolled out Nationally and there are thousands of trainers from all disciplines. It is up to the towing profession to continue to be a part of the delivery of this training, by hosting training classes, and “team teaching” with other disciplines like police and fire agencies. When in-person training is not possible, participation through the online version can be an important means by which new employees are introduced to the concepts of TIM. Both the online and in-person TIM training is offered free of charge.
TRAA has a commitment to TIM and the safety of towing professionals everywhere. From the heavy wrecker operator on the scene of a major closure involving a commercial vehicle, to the single operator on a desolate road helping change a tire, every life if valued.
TRAA supports the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway
Administration, TIM Executive Leadership Group (ELG), through participation in multi-disciplinary dialog and activities like Crash Responder Safety Week (CRSW) and support of the National TIM Responder Training Program.
As TRAA moves forward with new leadership, the commitment to TIM and
the safety of all responders from the industry remains constant. One death is too many, injuries must be prevented, and near miss incidents should be a reminder that constant vigilance is essential from every driver, every day.
LOCK OUT TOOLS
JB Tow Truck Accessories:
Built by Family, Built for Towing
When it comes to the towing industry, the right tools make the difference between frustration and efficiency, between breakdowns and reliability, between feeling like just another customer and feeling like family. That’s where JB Tow Truck Accessories, based in Tampa, Florida, steps in. Founded with a mission to combine high-quality products, fair pricing, and unbeatable service, JB Tow has grown from one man’s frustration with subpar tools into a nationwide towing family.
A Mission Rooted in Family
Jason Giddens, co-founder and Vice President of Sales, started JB Tow
with a simple but powerful vision: bring a family atmosphere to the towing accessories world. “We want our customers to know we’re here for them,” Jason says. “This isn’t just a business—it’s a family. We’ll always go the extra mile to make sure they have what they need, when they need it.”
That extra mile is no exaggeration. Jason has taken orders on Sunday nights, early mornings, and everything in between. He’s delivered products
personally while on the road to towing shows and repossession conferences. Whether it’s shipping fast, answering a phone call directly, or making sure a tow operator in need has the right tool that day, JB Tow lives its mission.
The Birth of the Big Stiffy
The company’s story begins with a single product: the Big Stiffy lockout tool. Jason, tired of using flimsy, poorly designed lockout tools, decided
it was time to build something better—something American-made, durable, and backed by a lifetime warranty.
The result was the Big Stiffy. With a handle that’s double-welded in the center—the point where true leverage comes from—it’s stronger than anything else on the market. Its tip is nearly impossible to pull off and takes years of use to wear down. And most importantly, it’s stiff enough to do the job right, every time.
But what really sets the Big Stiffy apart is the construction. Made from 100% stainless steel, it will never rust. Because the metal is smooth and doesn’t require any coating, it avoids one of the biggest problems with coated tools: peeling material that eventually damages door seals or scratches the inside of a vehicle. Jason designed the Big Stiffy to be clean, simple, and tough built for towers who rely on it daily.
LOCK OUT TOOLS
The lockout system also includes carefully thought-out accessories. JB Tow’s plastic wedge is engineered with an ultra-thin tip and a gentle curve, making it easy to slide in and create space with almost no effort. Once the wedge is in, the JB Tow Air Bag takes over. Unlike standard wedges that risk scratching interiors, this airbag is designed with a protector sleeve, so the lockout tool itself never touches the inside of the vehicle.
For professionals who want the full solution, the Deluxe Big Stiffy Kit includes the protector-sleeve airbag, a standard airbag, the slim plastic wedge,
and a carrying bag that conveniently hooks onto the Big Stiffy’s handle. Every detail was created with efficiency and safety in mind.
The Big Stiffy quickly gained a reputation as the ultimate lockout tool, and today, it’s a must-have for professional towers across the country.
The Fat Boy Wheel Lift Adapters
But Jason didn’t stop there. Recognizing the challenges towers face with oversized and dual-rear-wheel tires, he invented the Fat Boy wheel lift adapters. These adapters not only
make towing big wheels safer and more efficient, they also save wear and tear on L-arms—a game-changer for operators looking to work smarter, not harder.
As with the Big Stiffy, the Fat Boys are designed for real-world use by people who understand the daily challenges of towing. Jason built them because he lived those challenges himself.
Beyond the Tools: A Full Catalog of Products
While JB Tow started with signature innovations like the Big Stiffy and Fat Boy adapters, the company quickly expanded to carry a full range of products. Today, JB Tow offers everything from BA Products straps and cables to wireless tow lights, strobes, suction-cup mounts, and Tow Life 24/7 merchandise.
With thousands of items available online at http://jbtow.com, the company makes sure that whether you’re a onetruck operation or a fleet, you’ll find the
tools you need to stay safe, efficient, and professional.
On the Road With the Tow Family
What truly sets JB Tow apart is how the business is run. Jason doesn’t just sit behind a desk—he’s constantly on the road. Every year, he and his team attend towing conventions, repossession conferences, and Move Over events all across the country.
These trips aren’t just about selling products. Jason makes it a point to stop along the way, visiting customers in their shops, meeting Tow brothers and sisters face-to-face, and hand-delivering products. “It’s about building bonds,” he says. “When we say Tow Family, we mean it.”
JB Tow also gives back by donating products to events and organizations. Whether it’s a safety cause, a fundraiser, or a memorial, JB Tow is there to support unity and safety in the towing community.
Always Innovating, Always American-Made
While the catalog is already extensive, JB Tow is far from finished. New products are in development now, all American-made and designed to bring even more efficiency, safety, and value to towers across the country. That focus on innovation comes from listening to customers. Jason knows what towers need because he lives in the same world they do. That’s why operators can call him directly or send him an email—he wants the feedback, the ideas, and the real-life input that drives the next big tool.
The Personal Touch
At the heart of JB Tow Truck Accessories is something rare in today’s world: a direct line to the founder. Jason makes himself available by phone at 813-703-8830 or through the website, because he knows not everyone likes
ordering online. “If you want to call me personally and place your order, I’ll take care of you,” he says.
It’s that personal service, combined with fast shipping, fair prices, and tools that stand the test of time, that has made JB Tow more than a company—it’s become a trusted name in the towing community nationwide and even abroad.
Looking Ahead
JB Tow Truck Accessories continues to grow, fueled by innovation, customer loyalty, and a commitment to family values. With every product, every road trip, and every conversation with a tower in the field, the company reinforces its mission: best service, best prices, quickest shipping, and a family atmosphere.
For Jason, it’s simple: “This is a family business, and we’ll always treat our customers like family.”
For more information, please visit www.Jbtow.com.
Emergency Vehicle Access Roadside Tools & Tips
hen Roadside Assistance Pros take that 3 a.m. call to provide emergency vehicle access to a desperate motorist, they need to be prepared to overcome any obstacle. Savvy operators stow Steck Manufacturing’s BigEasy Comprehensive Lockout Kit and its accessories in their vehicle for quick, dependable use.
The backbone of the BigEasy Kit is its quarter-inch thick rescue rod, which is constructed from durable steel that is pliable and strong.
The 55-inch-long tool allows an experienced user to unlock a vehicle from the inside in approximately 60 seconds. The BigEasy actuates the lock button, door handle or electric locks on 98 percent of all cars and trucks.
Three Vehicle access tool Options
Steck Manufacturing’s BigEasy tool comes in three styles; a high-visibility pink powder coated rod, a blue powder coated rod for public safety and a reflective powder coated glow-in-the-dark rod perfect for tinted windows and nighttime access. Just hold the glow-in-the-dark rod up to the tow truck’s headlight to charge the rod.
A pro can use the BigEasy Kit to access a car in 20 seconds and at night in under a minute.
BigEasy user rescues trapped baby
During his career, Bill Buerk, an experienced emergency assistance professional has responded to several calls where customers’ kids or animals were trapped in a vehicle.
“I got a call that a lady had accidentally locked her baby inside her car along with her keys,” Buerk said. “Luckily, I was close by. As an experienced user of the BigEasy, I was able to manipulate the tool to unlock the vehicle door in seconds. Thankfully, the baby was all right and was quickly reunited with its mother.”
Buerk explained that he and his team train regularly
on using the BigEasy and its accessories to unlock many different types of cars and trucks.
“We practice on work trucks, newer cars and other vehicles,” he said. “The hardest ones to gain access to are typically box trucks and certain convertible models. Not only do we train on getting in, but we also practice doing it without damaging the vehicle in any way.”
The BigEasy Deluxe Kit Includes:
• Big Easy Glo Lockout Tool - STC32915
• Plastic Glo tip For BigEasy - STC32910-TIP
• Non-Marring Wedge – STC32920
• EasyWedge Inflatable Air Wedge 6”x 6” - STC32922
• Paint Protector – STC32924
• Sure Grip Lock Knob Lifter - STC32930
• BigEasy Carrying Case – STC32935
The accessories that come with, and those that can be added to Steck Manufacturing’s BigEasy Deluxe Kit (STC32955DLX), are critical to its ease of use, vehicle damage prevention, and its adaptability for nighttime operations.
Buerk explains that after inserting the Non-Marring Wedge, he begins the vehicle access process with the EasyWedge air cushions. Sometimes when a door is tight, he uses a second bag. One on top and one on the side.
BIGEASY DLX
LOCK OUT TOOLS
“It depends on the situation,” he said. “Sometimes you need a quarter inch or half inch more, depending on the frame size.”
Though only one 6” x 6” EasyWedge comes standard with the BigEasy Deluxe Kit, Steck Mfg. recently introduced the new Pro-Grade EasyWedge Inflatable Air Bag Combo Set (STC32925). All three bags can also be purchased separately.
EasyWedge 3-Bag Combo:
• Super EasyWedge (9” x 7”) – STC32923
• BigEasy Wedge (6” x 6”) – STC32922
• Mini EasyWedge (6” x 4”) – STC32921
These air bags have a durable construction for heavy-duty use. All are high-frequency sonic welded, maintaining a tight seal for years of professional use. The air shim bag squeeze pump allows for easy, one-handed operation and precision inflation and deflation control.
Additional Accessories
Even though the BigEasy rod is 55-inch-long, there are situations, like in newer trucks, where the door handle is farther down inside the frame.
This is when the BigEasy Extend Accessory (STC32905) comes into play. This glow-in-the-dark extender fits on the
BigEasy accessories like the EsayWedge Air Bag, Non-Marring Wedge and Easy Loop provide pros with quick emergency vehicle access.
end of the BigEasy and provides an extra 12 inches of length.
Additionally, the BigEasy Loop Accessory (STC32903) quickly clips onto the rod, giving the user a loop attachment. This handy attachment allows the user to easily grab door and window handles, upgrading your BigEasy for additional applications. The glowing feature ensures visibility in the dark, perfect for nighttime use.
“I’m still using the same BigEasy kit that was in my truck the day I started working with this company. The BigEasy is extremely durable and it delivers great value for the money,” Buerk said. “I’d recommend this kit to any roadside assistance professional. It really gets the job done.”
Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc
Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc
Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc
Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc
Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc
EXTREME STRENGTH
Amplify your towing power with the Armortek Extreme Synthetic Winch Rope Kit. Made from HMPE, the world’s strongest man-made fiber, it’s 70% stronger than steel yet six times lighter. In addition, the tightly woven outer braid provides full-length protection against abrasion. Pre-stretched, heat-set, with extra coating for abrasion resistance, it’s built to tackle tough jobs and keep you moving.
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.
