Tow Professional - Volume: 8 Issue: 9 by Over the Mountain Media, Inc

Volume 8 • Issue 9 • 2019 www.towprofessional.com

Fleet Management System

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TOW PROFESSIONAL

CONTENTS

INDUSTRY NEWS

WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM

FEATURES: 25 |

TOWING & RECOVERY

6| 8| 12 | 16 |

Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional Top Products 2019

Jerr-Dan Jerr-Dan A Very High Profile Recovery 3rd Annual “Slow Down Move Over” Rally TP_V7i9.qxp_Tow Professional 12/16/18 8:48 PM Page 52

INSIGHTFUL TALK BY DAN MESSINA ///

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Insurance

PLANNING FOR 2020

Fleet Management System

MPT-H1

TOWERS

BY JAMES E. LEWIS ///

PROACTIVE TRAINING OR THE “SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKS?”

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53 | 24 |

The NEW TowProfessional.com is Now Live!

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erage in the industry. With a growing base of “A” rated carriers, we are able to offer coverage in most states with no radius restrictions. Our team of Towing & Recovery specialists includes Curtis Cooper, CPCU, Amy Berry, CIC, Amy Sockwell, CISR, Jamie Harrelson, CISR, and our claims

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22 |

Originally established in 1950, Mike Keith Insurance has four Missouri locations offering a broad range of insurance products and services. Throughout these years, we have taken pride in helping our customers understand and select the right balance between affordability and quality of coverage. MKI focuses on keeping the interest of our client’s first and all employees strive to exceed customer expectations on every level. A niche agency, MKI has been successful in the Towing & Recovery Industry by partnering with major Tow & Recovery carriers and fostering these relationships to be able to offer our insureds the best prices and the most comprehensive cov-

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Austin

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Mike Keith

to fit your insurance needs. Not all risks are identical; years in business, your own loss experience, driver experience, and type of business will affect your insuranc cost. They understand your business an your business needs. They wear many hats as independent agents, representing various insurance companies, which allow them to “design” a policy for you.

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EDITOR’S

LETTER Volume 8 • Issue 9 WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM

Professional Your Resource for Towing & Recovery

PUBLISHER

CLEAR VISION IN 2020 2020 is on us! This this a great time to have clear vision for the upcoming year to see what new things can be done in your business that will take you, your employees, and your customers to next level in service excellence. Over the Mountain Media and Tow Professional (TP) magazine are bringing new things to the forefront such as a new, product-driven, B2B website which is highly interactive. It provides cutting-edge information allowing us to share the most updated towing-related stories as well as customer editorial, new and top product descriptions, and leading distributor information across all major social media including Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter. This allows us to provide a timelier access to more key information both in digital and in social media venues than ever before. Also, TP has merged with Dialed-In Media Group, a successful publishing and design firm in the racing industry. This gives TP the ability to offer other services such website optimization and turn-key website design to the highest level since the magazine’s inception. TP will also be offering custom design of company and product materials as well as customized calendars for owners, dealers, and distributers at cost effective rates. This issue also features “Top Products” that stood out to our staff in 2019. When you as a tow company owner are making your goals for 2020, take TP’s “Top Products” for the year, review where your company needs to grow, and pull from this excellent summary of some of the best products available to the towing industry. Also, Dan Messina gives great tips on how to grow your business with his “Insightful Talk” and James Lewis highlights the value of proactive training over the “school of hard knocks” in his “Expert Witness.” This issue is a great companion for your 2020 planning sessions. Let’s all meet at the next level and have a great 2020!

Darian Weaver President & Publisher darian@towprofessional.com Butch Cole National Sales butch@towprofessional.com

PRODUCTION Gene Eudy Editor gene@towprofessional.com Clint Cabiness Creative Director clint@dialedinmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS James Lewis Dan Messina Darian Weaver Todd Wiles-Best Tools

Executive and Advertising Offices 2007 Old Montgomery Hwy, Suite B Birmingham, AL 35244 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., 2007 Old Montgomery Hwy., Suite B, Birmingham, Alabama, 35244, 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.

Gene Eudy Editor, Tow Professional

For a new free subscription, address changes or corrections, please visit www.towprofessional.com and click on the “subscribe” tab.

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Jerr-Dan University Launches at American Towman Show Company is First in Industry to Offer Customers Online Product Training

Hagerstown, MD (Dec. 4, 2019) – Jerr-Dan Corporation, an Oshkosh Corporation company (NYSE:OSK) and a single brand leader in the towing and recovery business, introduced Jerr-Dan University, an industry-first product training program, at the American Towman Exposition, Dec. 4-7, 2019 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Participants can view live demos of various course offerings, register for online training and create a training dashboard to get started. Courses are presented using visual, interactive and text-driven training. An 80 percent score or higher is needed to successfully pass each course. Following completion, users will receive a badge and printable certificate. “We launched Jerr-Dan University as a way to support towers who bravely serve as first responders in the field,” said Hal Wyatt, director of aftermarket support at Jerr-Dan.

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“In addition to the quality equipment we design and manufacture, this online training provides an additional step to enhancing on-the-job safety.” Current courses include educational training for both Jerr-Dan’s JFB 50/60 Rotator and the Heavy-Duty Wrecker line. In February 2020, a new service and maintenance training module for Jerr-Dan’s Standard Duty Carrier will be available and other modules are in development. “In the future, Jerr-Dan University will serve as a comprehensive training library suitable for distributors and the industry at large,” said Wyatt. “This online tool allows users to fully understand the uniqueness of Jerr-Dan products from both an operational as well as a service and maintenance perspective.” For more information or to register for Jerr-Dan University, visit https://jdu.jerrdan.com/.

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Jerr-Dan Unveils New Multi-Car Carrier at American Towman Expo Low-profile Carrier is First of its Type in the Industry Hagerstown, MD (Dec. 4, 2019) – Jerr-Dan Corporation, an Oshkosh Corporation company (NYSE:OSK) and single brand leader in the towing and recovery business, is launched its new multi-car carrier at the American Towman Exposition, Dec. 4-7, 2019 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The new carrier allows a fourth car to be towed with the optional underlift. Jerr-Dan’s current multi-car carrier – which was built on a 7.5-ton single/tandem axle subframe – is being replaced by an 8.5-ton frame. This makes Jerr-Dan the first in the industry to offer a low profile (XLP) three-car carrier with a fourth car option on this level of frame capacity. Mounting the three-car carrier to a larger subframe offers additional benefits, such as:

• •

Reducing the carrier deck off the top of the frame height by two inches Lowering the center of gravity of the load for more stability

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• • •

Providing an additional one-ton structural capacity Reducing the main deck height to allow for transport of taller loads, making navigation under bridges and through tunnels more efficient Delivering easier access to the lower deck for tasks such as securing tie-downs

“Our new multi-car carrier delivers a more innovative product at the same investment level as our original design,” said Mike VanAken, director of product management and marketing at Jerr-Dan. “This new carrier has the high-quality features of our 7.5-ton carrier including an optional wheel lift system that can transport up to four cars.” Jerr-Dan’s new multi-car carrier is backed by its 1/3/5 XLP product warranty, which includes one-year full coverage, three-year hydraulic coverage and five-year structural coverage. To learn more about the new carrier, visit www.jerrdan.com/equipment/carriers/multi-car.

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

A Very High Profile Recovery A red Porsche Boxster convertible, was “traveling at a high rate of speed” when it hit a median and eventually crashlanded into the second-story offices of Exit Realty Elite. The car was driven by Braden DeMartin, 22, police said. DeMartin and his passenger, 23-year-old Daniel Foley -both of Toms River -- were pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. The building, which the real estate agency shares with a software company and a family therapist, has been deemed “unsafe.” Isaac Kesserman, owner of the building, said no one was inside at the time of the crash. The accident occurred on Hooper Avenue between Indian Hill Road and College Drive around 6:30 a.m. The area was shut down for about seven hours. Accurate Towing Service of Toms River, NJ handled the recovery on scene. Accurate has been in business 30 years. The recovery was performed by owner, Thomas j Makuch/ level 3 heavy recovery specialist/supervisor, Alex Mace TRAA certified wrecker operator and Wreck-master, and Kaitlyn Mace operator/ground safety TRAA/Wreck-Master certified.

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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No matter what you’re towing, we’re always behind you.

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Call your local agent or visit ProgressiveCommercial.com.

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Specialized coverages may not be available in all states or situations. In Texas and Virginia, Garagekeepers Legal Liability coverage is called Storage Location insurance. In these two states only, On-Hook Towing insurance is then called Garagekeepers Legal Liability coverage.

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770.898.1200 • rentawrecker.com 14

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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Think Safe. Imagine a world where every vehicle to be towed is a lightweight compact sedan, parked away from the road and traffic, on level ground, above dry pavement, under clear and sunny skies. You may even forget you have dollies.

your reality — if every vehicle is as unique as its driver, if you can’t control the weather, the traffic or where a car breaks down, you can choose to be safe.

Surely such a place exists, but if that isn’t

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Collins Safety Ratchet System helps lift a range of vehicles in steps, holding the vehicle safely in place, even if you were to lose your grip or footing from ice, snow, gravel or uneven terrain. And it’s a backup safety while in tow. Let Collins Dollies do the heavy lifting so you can get back to daydreaming.

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

3rd ANNUAL ALABAMA “SLOW DOWN, MOVE OVER” RALLY

he 3rd Annual Alabama “Slow Down, Move Over” Rally was held December 1, 2019 to raise awareness of the “Slow Down, Move Over” (SDMO) laws and the dangers that towers face daily. Currently, we are losing one tow operator every 6 days which is higher than other first responders who average losing one every 30 days. Our 1st responders’ office space is often mere inches away from the white line of inattentive motorists driving dangerously close in their vehicles at high speeds. These men and women towers are out doing what they love to do which is serving others, and many are not going home to their families afterwards.

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The 3rd Annual “SDMO” Rally was put on by Classic Towing which is owned by Wes Passmore. Three years ago, Wes lost a driver, John Hubbard, to a motorist who did not move over one lane when approaching a first responder giving aid on the side of the road. Since then, Wes has worked tirelessly and persistently to spread the word to all to move over one and protect fellow towers, so that no more are lost to inattentive drivers. Consequently, over 300 participants came from as far as Louisiana and Mississippi to help support the rally and then drove from Hueytown, AL to Tuscaloosa, AL with other first responders to raise awareness across the state.

VEHICLES (4/21) Region - New Jersey

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004 - Wrecker 4 09:52, 5 Dolphin Av., Newark, NJ, 1978 US

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02/29, 10:16, 2 Frederik Hermans, Princeton, NJ, 1011 US

006 – Wrecker 6

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From keeping up regulations to optimizing towing fleets performance TomTom Telematics is now Webfleet Solutions Since our launch 20 years ago, we’ve grown to become a global leader in telematics, helping over 50,000 businesses manage vehicles and maximize productivity. Having recently been acquired by Bridgestone, we now change our name from TomTom Telematics to Webfleet Solutions. Our goal remains the same: to innovate fleet management and build the future of mobility solutions. Let’s drive business. Further. webfleet.com

www.towprofessional.com | Volume 8 • Issue 9 | Tow Professional 17 WFS_Ad_Towing2_2,2x9,5_US.indd 1 27/9/19 11:56

INSIGHTFUL TALK BY DAN MESSINA ///

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

PLANNING FOR 2020 I

just got back from a tow show in Atlantic City, and the show gave me an opportunity to talk to a lot of tow companies. Many of the companies I talked to were new while others have been in business for years and are still struggling. As I walked the show floor and looked at prices for things it takes to run a tow company, it made me happy I no longer ran a tow company when you look at things like: 1. Price of Trucks 2. Price of Software 3. Price of Chains and Straps 4. Price to Market your Company 5. Price of Insurance 6. Price of Gas This does not even take into consideration the other things it takes to run your company like staff, rent, phones, and office supplies. Before the new year starts, it’s time to sit down and ask yourself what 2020 will look like. When I owned my tow company, my wife and I would take a vacation for a week and try to define our business for the next year. Nothing has changed. I am starting a new business, and the week after Christmas we are going to New Orleans for a few days to discuss our new business.

GOALS FOR 2020 The 1st thing we do is set a goal for 2020. It could be any of the following: 18

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What customers should we go after? What will our business hours be? Do we need to increase our staff? What will we charge for our services? How we will double our revenue? How much office space is required? What markets do we want to offer our services to?

To me, this is the fun stuff in your business. You are out of the daily routine, and you are blue skiing what your company should be. I can’t express enough how important this time is to you and your business. It will relieve the stress between you and your wife while improving your business for the next year. Make this a business trip and write it off and enjoy yourself at the same time. I spent some time at the tow show with a tow company owner that tells me he has 400 cars to dispose of but can’t find the time to do it. I explained the money he is sitting on that could be used to improve his company or personal life.

REVENUE IDEAS With the economy the way it is, all small businesses are struggling to survive. As I talk to tow company owners, I tell them there are two ways to improve your bottom line: you can increase your revenue or lower your expenses. Next month, we will talk about expenses, but for now, here a few revenue ideas to think about: 1. Tow junk cars and run them across the scales. 2. Utilize empty space in your storage yard. If you have a storage yard, let other companies tow to your yard. That is the big thing in Texas. Also, store vehicles for private owners, for trailer rental companies, and new car dealers. 3. Open additional businesses. One company opened a tanning salon at his yard, and another opened a small convenience store. Start to think outside the box, and you will find many opportunities in your neighborhood that will generate revenue.

HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS Growing your business is a necessity for your business’ survival. What can you do to grow your business? Here are a few things you can do to get started:

Target Your Existing Market The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of growing your business is getting new customers, but it’s easier getting additional business from your existing customer base.

Ask for Referrals If you provide a good service, it will be easy to ask your existing customers for referrals. Doing a great job and just assuming that your customers are passing the word about your business isn’t going to do much to increase your customer base; you have to actively seek referrals. During or after every job or sale, ask your satisfied customer if he or she knows anyone else who would be interested in your services.

Innovate Your Service Discovering and promoting new services is a great way to get existing customers to use you more and attract new customers. Look at your trucks and storage lot and identify what new services you can offer by utilizing your trucks and lot in different ways. To do that, drive around your neighborhood and see what other people might have a need for that you can offer. Also, look at your competition and see what they are doing that you are not. Attend a trade show and talk to other towers to see what they are doing in different parts of the country.

Think duct tape! How few of these would have actually been sold if they only had one use!

Extend Your Market Reach There are several ways of growing your business by making your services available to a new pool of customers. The most obvious is to open offices in new locations on a different side of town. This could increase your rotations with the city and save on gas by having trucks on that side of town. Opening an office in another city could also be an option if you can cover the expense to get started. (Here is where motor clubs can be of help). New locations can also be set up through the internet such as a website with online services. Learn how to take advantage of the internet. Another approach is to extend your reach through advertising. Once you’ve identified a new market, you might advertise in a select media that targets that market.

Participate in Trade Shows Trade shows can be a great way of growing your business

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

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INSIGHTFUL TALK BY DAN MESSINA ///

because they draw people who are already interested in the type of services you offer. The trick is to select the trade shows you participate in carefully seeking the right match for your service. “Trade Show Tips” will help you get the best return on your investment. The more your name can be seen by potential

customers the better off you are.

Conquer a Niche Market Remember the analogy of the big fish in the small pond? That’s essentially how this strategy for growing your business works. The niche market is the pond-a narrowly defined group of customers. Think of them as a subset

whose needs are not being met and concentrate on meeting those unmet needs. Most towers go after companies that have fleets. Think of places that have groups of people: churches, schools, chain stores, apartments, and small companies that have 50 to 60 employees. Then go in and offer them a towing service for their people.

Contain Your Costs Surprised? Bear in mind that when we’re talking about growing your business, we’re actually talking about growing your business’ bottom line. There are several approaches to cutting costs: stop providing services that cost the most money (heavy duty towing) and improve your services by utilizing your trucks in the best way. Here comes the motor club approach again or one of those new customers you added.

Diversify Your Services The key to successfully growing your business through diversification is similarity. Look at your existing customers and see if there are other businesses that might have similar needs. You may tow landscaping equipment when it breaks down, but where does he store his equipment in the winter time which is another use for your storage lot. Over the past 8 years, I have put on seminars at trade shows or wrote articles for all the magazines trying to show you tips on how to run your business. What I am doing is taking all my articles and putting them in a book and making it available to you. This book will show you what is expected as an owner and how to perform functions that don’t fit your DNA. It will address all kinds of employee issues, help you set business goals, and compete and win in any market you want. It is being put together now, and I will let you know when it’s ready.

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Volume 8 â&#x20AC;¢ Issue 9

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an expert Witness BY JAMES E. LEWIS ///

’ve been told I’m abrupt and a little brash. I prefer the idea that I’m a realist; therefore, I call things like I see them. This industry has no place for hurt feelings and bruised egos; we’re doing dangerous work out there, and if you don’t take that seriously, no one will take YOU seriously. I’d much rather have a friend or advisor who is honest with me instead of someone blowing smoke up my exhaust pipe and telling me how good I am. I hear and read about people in the towing industry continually complaining because they’re not treated with the same respect as other first responders. I think there’s a good reason for that. Most police officers attend daily status and training briefings at the beginning of each shift after going through an extensive academy and extended time with a field training officer. Most firefighters conduct some sort of training daily. EMS personnel are required to continually update and maintain medical certifications. If you want the same respect as the rest of 22

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first responders, then train yourselves like first responders train. I’ll travel in time back to 1987 when I drove my first civilian tow unit. The business owner showed me how to activate the manual PTO and move the winch levers on the sling truck, tossed me the keys after three minutes of playing with the levers, and sent me out on a police call to pull a rolled over Oldsmobile out of a ditch. I tore that car up during that recovery. The business owner didn’t care because he said it was already totaled, but that’s a whole different subject and article. Suffice it to say that every vehicle and its every part has salvage value, and so you, the tow operator, shouldn’t tear a car to pieces because some parts are already damaged. It’s just not your call to make. I was thrown the keys and told “good luck,” which is the exact manner that hundreds and thousands of us in the industry got our initial “training.” In such a dangerous career field, and one in which damage to towed vehicles and to our equipment can produce www.towprofessional.com

staggering repair bills, a few minute’s worth of training or riding with another driver for a couple of hours just doesn’t cut it. Ours is the only industry where organizations like OSHA don’t do stroke-inducing audits and will shut a business down for poor safety practices. Perhaps OSHA should pay much more attention to our industry. Many times, after the initial “training,” which isn’t very much, tow operators get no further training whatsoever. They immediately form bad habits and then reinforce those bad habits daily by doing the same thing in-and-out for years. In this case, just because you claim to have years of experience, it doesn’t count if you’re not doing it right. I’ll give you a case in point-the red C7 Corvette on the flatbed in Oklahoma. The young driver secured the car half-sideways on the deck and used large J-hooks for the rear tiedown. I applaud the idea that he used two chains on the rear, but he secured them with the points of the hooks up, meaning that if either one gets loose, it could fall off, and the left side was very loose. Also, the biggest issue is using a J-hook at all on the incredibly expensive aluminum rear lower control arms on the Corvette. You’ve all but guaranteed a stress fracture in those aluminum components, and they’re expensive. OEM replacements are $1,220 per side. Is a $3,000 claim with parts and labor worth it on a $100 tow? This isn’t the 70s--we have straps available just for applications like that. Once that car gets to a shop and the technician or shop manager sees that, what do you think they’d do? They surely don’t want to assume the liability for damaged suspension components, so they’ll call the customer, all but guaranteeing a damage claim. Training on and understanding towing and recovery methods pays off in large amounts of increased

professionalism in our industry. Professionalism pays off in better contracts and rates, stronger customer bases, and prolonged equipment life--all of which increases profitability. It’s a win/win for everyone. You can train as a company every day. Every day, we have a little down time - turn it into some sort of training session, inside the shop during bad weather, outside in the sunshine during the summertime. When you do these impromptu training sessions, document it. Just use a Word document with a quick summary of what you covered, date and time, list the attendees, and get signatures. Check out my article titled “This One Got to Me” about the incredible value of training documentation. Back to the throwing the keys to someone and telling them “good luck.”

I’m not directly knocking the “school of hard knocks” manner of training. Here’s how that works: You have no training or knowledge in a specific area like how sensitive and low the oil pan is on a Freightliner Cascadia with the Detroit engine. You use forks and grab the front axle, and away you go. Since you didn’t use tall enough forks, the truck bounced a bit, and you nailed the fragile oil drain plug and cracked the oil pan. After the experience, you tell everyone you know about it and advise others to do a double-pick and use taller forks. Wouldn’t it be better, though, to pass on that training nugget to people WITHOUT the obligatory hard lesson learned, an angry customer, a large damage claim, and embarrassment? There’s a better way to train than the “school of hard knocks.” You can

bet that our brothers and sisters in police agencies, fire departments, and EMS units don’t halfway do their training with some 5-minute “here’s how you do it” unofficial class with no documentation. THAT is the difference in our field and first responders. If the tow industry doesn’t step up our voluntary training efforts, we will never be accepted as fellow first responders. The desire to be accepted as first responders is strong throughout the industry now, but it is my contention that 90% or more of the towers out there aren’t ready to play at the varsity level. So, if you want what other first responders have, then do what they do which is proactive and continual training; it can be less expensive than the bill from the school of hard knocks!

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Every year, we give you our roundup of the hottest products and services that have come across our desks from manufacturers, dealers, and service providers in the towing market.

his year’s list spans an impressive amount of categories, including towing software, GPS, damaged vehicle movement systems, synthetics, tools, lights, and many others. This issue should be your company’s wish list going into the new year, as you continue to evaluate and select products to help you operate your towing facility more effectively and efficiently. In every issue through the year, every single product or service we cover in the magazine is there because we think it’s something that you will find useful, so we’re excited about each and every one in all of our issues. Our sole mission is to help you make purchasing decisions, so we’re all about products, all the time. This list reflects the “best of the best.” It is a great time to be an owner of a towing or repossession company, because the market is overflowing with options for great products and services for your facility. Here are some of the products and services that stood out to us this year:

Jerr-Dan’s New Multi-Car Carrier offers additional benefits, such as: • Reducing the carrier deck off the top of the frame height by two inches • Lowering the center of gravity of the load for more stability • Providing an additional one-ton structural capacity • Reducing the main deck height to allow for transport of taller loads, making navigation under bridges and through tunnels more efficient • Delivering easier access to the lower deck for tasks such as securing tie-downs

err-Dan’s current multi-car carrier – which was built on a 7.5-ton single/tandem axle subframe – is being replaced by an 8.5-ton frame. This makes Jerr-Dan the first in the industry to offer a low profile (XLP) three-car carrier with a fourth car option on this level of frame capacity. The new carrier allows a fourth car to be towed with the optional underlift. We provide our partnered tow companies and service proMounting the three-car carrier to a larger subframe

www.towprofessional.com

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Tow Professional

MatJack

MatJack introduced Landing cushions in 2005 and are the standard in the industry by which all others are held. Capable of controlling any and all loads up to 80,000 per cushion MatJack Landing cushions have helped with thousands of uprights from tractor trailers to excavators to mobile homes without fail, call us for details.

MatJack has introduced into the towing market 3M’s Peltor brand headsets which link up by simply turning them on and being on the same channel with unlimited amount of users at any one time in either basic or Bluetooth! With over a 1 mile range and no line of sight necessary, this affordable system comes in several styles, contact us for details.

Hurricane Jumbo cushion sets- MatJack, the worldwide leader in air cushion technology in its never-ending quest to answer the needs of our customers has developed the Hurricane Jumbo system. The ever-dependable Jumbo is now capable of up righting an overturned tractor/trailer in as little as 5 minutes. You need to clear the road quickly and want to use your cushions, this is your solution. Call us for details. MatJack has always been at the fore front of technology and safety in the industry. Adding to that is our new line of PMI Advantage helmets which sets the standard in the fire service for rescue and confined space along with being NFPA certified. PMI Advantage helmets are light weight and come in 6 colors, call us for details. For more information, visit www.MatJack.com.

Safety Vision Observer 4401-Observer™ 4401 HVR

he Observer 4401 HVR records up to 5 channels of crisp 1080p resolution, supporting 4 HD cameras and 1 IP camera.The Observer 4401 HVR comes fully loaded with built-in wireless and cellular networking capabilities, integrated GPS, and a built-in G-force sensor, offering fleet operators a cost-effective recording solution they can rely on.

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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FlowStop’s Hazmat Products

lowStop’s Hazmat Products, “ Equipment & Supplies,” are designed by a veteran of the towing, recovery and spill response service for a quick and easy solution to minimize exposure when dealing with roadside mishaps.

FlowStop has a proven track record for dependability for the task at hand. Check out the FlowStop Product line at www.flowstop.net or call us at 877-356-9767 for details and pricing.

DOME LID CLAMPS Designed for MC 306 / DOT 406 Tank Trailers Quick & Easy Deployment for Rapid Results 5 Aluminum Locking Clamps

FLOWSTOP’S AIR DRILL KIT REVERSIBLE AIR DRILL INFRARED TEMP GUN LENNOX 2’’ HOLE SAW LENNOX 4’’ HOLE SAW 2) OATEY 2’’ PLUGS 2) OATEY 4’’ PLUGS 50’ X 3/8’’ AIR HOSE STORAGE/CARRY CASE

CARGO TANKER VAC STINGER

AIR DRILL KIT

VAC PUMP CADDY

Reversible Air Drill Infrared Temp Gun Lennox 2’’ Hole Saw Lennox 4’’ Hole Saw 2) Oatey 2’’ Plugs 2) Oatey 4’’ Plugs 50’ X 3/8’’ Air Hose Storage/Carry Case

•

Achieve 3 Separate Lengths with 2 Vac Stingers! 3’ x 2” Aluminum Vac Stinger Fits Through 4” Opening with Easy 3’ x 5” Aluminum Vac Stinger Lock Couplers 8’ x 2” With Both Stingers Grounding Tabs on Stingers Connected! Aluminum Dust Caps for Male 3” Sight Glass to 2” Vac Pipe Couplers Aluminum Strainer Pelican Case for Storage & Transport

• • • • • • • • •

Yamada 1” Dual Diaphragm Pump Aluminum Housing Excellent for Hydrocarbons & Light Chemicals 1 Year Warranty Air Regulator 2 Aluminum VAC Stingers: 1, 48“ and 1, 30” Aluminum VAC Wand 30“ 4, 25’ x 1” VAC & Discharge Hoses 50‘ x 3/8“ Air Hose w/ Quick Couplers Mounted Plastic Tool Caddy for 90 Degree ELL & 2” Plugs Mounted on 600 lb. Handtruck Pneumatic or Hard Tires (option) Ideal for quick evacuation of damaged saddle tanks, IBC’s and drums.

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

TowMate

TM-FLUX

ith the fastest charge of any wireless tow light, no batteries to replace EVER, and a life span of millions of charges, this light bar will make all your other tow lights pale in comparison. Made in the USA, and includes the TowMate lifetime warranty.

MO37Li Feature-packed, long-lasting power and MADE IN THE USA. The MO37Li packs wireless STT, strobe, worklight, and traffic control all-in-one heavy-duty light bar. Includes the TowMate lifetime warranty.

PCX61U w/Touchscreen Our new PCX overhead light bars are the new industry standard for emergency and industrial lighting. Made from a solid aluminum extrusion, multi-color strobe function, wireless STT that controls your TowMate tow lights, and controllable via our touchscreen controller; this is the future of vehicle lighting. For more information, visit www.towmate.com.

Tow Professional | Volume 8 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 9

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Will-Burt Night Scan HDT:

he Night Scan HDT as been developed to meet the unique needs of the Recovery and Towing industry. Heavy wreckers and rotators benefit from the maximum height and light output of the Night Scan HDT Powerlite. The Powerlite version is available as a surface-mount folding version when there is sufficient space or a vertically-mounted model that requires only a 12” x 12” space for installation. Both are 15’ tall when extended, have dual-tilt light heads that cast 120,000 lumens of LED light in all directions to insure you don’t miss a thing. The height of the six Night Scan XL200 LED lights turns night into day and will not blind your crew. Oncoming traffic will be alerted to the scene from a safe distance. Night Scan HDT comes with everything needed for installation. The major truck manufacturers can install the light tower during a new build or the light tower can be installed by dealer or upfitter. They can even be installed on older equipment by your own shop. Best of all, no generator is needed to power the light tower –

the efficient Night Scan XL200 LED lamps operate from your truck’s power system. Night Scan HDT is available in smaller sizes for rollbacks and tow trucks, and we also offer a full range of specialized LED lighting for every vehicle. www.nightscan.com.

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

United Plastics

he UPF Poly-Gen™ PolyBody® body offers the perfect combination of durability, strength, and customization options. These bodies are smooth, quiet, and feature increased storage and will never rust or corrode. Never worry about dings and dents with these lightweight but surprisingly strong tow bodies. UPF offers replacements for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty trucks and offers the best combination of lightweight material and durability you’ll find. UPF Poly-Gen™ PolyBodies® replacement bodies can make your fleet look brand new, and discounts are available for multiple orders. Call Pat Cahill at 978-360-4546 or email pcahill@unitedplastic.com or visit, www.unitedplastic.com to learn more about Poly-Gen™ body sizes and options.

American Safety & Supply

Class III WATERPROOF Bomber W/Class III Removable Liner

• • • • •

100% WATERPROOF shell W/ removable sleeves Class III Removable liner W/ removable sleeves Several inside and outside pockets and detachable hood Black accents help to hide stains Sizes Medium – 6XL

ANSI Class III WATERPROOF Bomber Jacket

• • • •

Features a Warm FIXED QUILTED LINER Hood Stores in the Collar Available in Sizes SMALL – 7XL Multiple Pockets

For more information, call toll free at 800-472-3892 or visit, www.americansafety.com. 30

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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Access Tools Roadside Creeper The Roadside Creeper is a extra thick lowclearance creeper or roadside mat for any professional working on an automobile. It can be used roadside when lying down to hook up a vehicle from underneath, or when kneeling to work on a wheel or tire. The thick foam is durable and features a cut-out handle for easy transportation.

Ultimate Long Reach Kit The Ultimate Long Reach Kit includes every tool and accessory you need to open virtually any vehicle on the road today using the long reach method. This 21-piece kit is the most comprehensive and complete long reach tool set ever made.

Air Jack Air Wedge

Easy Off Twist Socket Set The Easy Off Twist Socket Set works like magic to remove all damaged or locked lug nuts without a key. With our exclusive sure twist grip technology, locked wheel lugs spin off with no effort. Five socket sizes fit virtually every lock lug nut on the market and are so easy to use with a breaker bar.

Access Tools also makes a variety of Air Jack air wedges designed to help spread the door away from the vehicle, giving the user enough space to insert a Long Reach Tool. These include the: • Mini Starter Air Jack for soft metal / painted b-pillars • Standard Air Jack that is functional on virtually every vehicle • Super Air Jack that tackles heavy-duty door frames • Twin Air Jack that works well on stiff door frames. For more Information, visit www.accesstoolsusa.com. www.towprofessional.com

Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

RP Recovery Consulting AirLight Series

hree sizes of inflatable LED light towers make up the AirLight series. From our ultra-portable AirLight to our incredibly powerful AirLight Pro Max, there is a light tower to meet your area lighting needs.

10ft Airlight

• • • • • •

AirLight Pro Max

• • • • • •

Height: 9 feet 9 inches Weight: 29 pounds Wattage: 336 Watts Light output: 36,000 lumens Voltage: 120V AC Footprint: 20” x 20” x 18” tall

Height: 14 feet Weight: 72 pounds Wattage: 1,100 Watts Light output: 111,000 lumens Voltage: 120V AC Footprint: 28” x 28” x 24” tall

AirLight Pro

• • • • • •

Height: 12 feet Weight: 64 pounds Wattage: 860 Watts Light output: 74,400 lumens Voltage: 120V AC Footprint: 28” x 28” x 24” tall

Wireless Headsets FASTER RESPONSE

IMPROVED PRECISION

ENHANCED SAFETY

Operators and riggers talk to each other in real-time, hands-free. Deliver instructions clearly and answer questions directly while work caries on. No need to shout or use hand signals – clear communication helps get the job done faster.

There’s no communication breakdown between operators and riggers. On-scene precision and performance goes up as you reduce errors and avoid costly mistakes.

Instant communication allows for timely warnings, alerts, and instructions to the crew. Avoid job hazards and mitigate the risk of injuries and mistakes.

Advanced Technology That’s Easy to Use Full-duplex Communication Hands-free simultaneous twoway conversation. No more shouting – easily talk and work at the same time with your entire team.

Sonetics Listen-Through Technology lets you mix in outside sound to get the right level of hearing protection and situational awareness.

SITE-COVERING RANGE 2 feet to 1,600. You can depend on the range – no matter what the incident requires

VISIBILITY NOT REQUIRED For more information, rprecoveryconsulting@gmail.com or call: 315-730-6566.

Far-side operators, talk with your riggers regardless of whether you can see them or not.

LISTEN-THROUGH 34

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

www.towprofessional.com

Custer Products

ne of our most popular new products this year is the wireless light-duty tow light or LIW-LDTL for short. This highly durable wireless tow light bar was designed for light, and medium tows. Our newest 23â&#x20AC;? unit has a nearly indestructible polyethylene case and a steel handle for ease of use during tows. It also has separate turn signal lights which are required in several states. The LIW-LDTL is manufactured in the U.S.A. and includes all of the same features of our larger, heavy-duty wireless light bars! For more information, visit www.custerproducts.com.

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Volume 8 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 9

Tow Professional

GPS Fleet Management Solutions

GReal-time Visibility for Towing Fleets

PS Fleet Management Solutions is an authorized reseller for Geotab, one of the highest rated Utilizing systems the Top-Rated Geotabtoday. FleetIn fleet management on the market Solution addition, we also Management provide add-ons such as camera systems, mobile workforce management, and other offerings which can be found on the Geotab Marketplace site. The Geotab GO9 is a small form-factor vehicle tracking device that simply plugs directly into your vehicle’s OBD II port or via an adapter for those vehicles without. No antenna or wire-splicing is required. The installation process is quick, easy, and If you’re not convinced that this is the most efficient solution to doesn’t require any special the and assistance ofwill ensure the right truck arrivestools on-siteor safely quickly, we send a call taginstaller. to pick upThe the unit. a professional device provides highly accurate GPS vehicle tracking, engine and battery health assessment, breakthrough collision detections No Upfrontadvanced Cost Options January and notification, vehicleThrough data capture, and2020 in-vehicle driver feedback. Contact us at 877-771-2236 or driveitsmart.com to get your free device to trial for 14 days.

Real-time Visibility for Towing Fleets DriveItSmart.com Utilizing the Top-Rated Geotab Fleet or call 877-771-2236 Management Solution

Boost Productivity & Control Costs

SCHEDULE YOUR 14-DAY NO-COST Demo Unit!

—NO QUESTIONS ASKED—

+ Increase response time + Dispatch nearest/best driver for the job + Accurate ETA’s + Increase service calls per day + Increase jobs completed per day + Create customer zones/geofences +IfImprove asset utilization you’re not convinced that this is the most efficient solution to

Driv or ca

Boo

SCHEDULE YOUR 14-DAY NO-COST Demo Unit!

ensure the right truck arrives on-site safely and quickly, we will send a call tag to pick up the unit.

—NO QUESTIONS ASKED—

No Upfront Cost Options Through January 2020

+ + + + + + +

GUNIWHEELTM GW45

GW56 36

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

e’re excited to introduce a revolutionary new tool for the towing industry. GUNIWHEEL™ is the world’s first universal fitting vehicle-mounting system in a tire and wheel design. With GUNIWHEEL™, you can safely mount and move any vehicle that has damaged or missing wheels and tires. GUNIWHEEL™ is a simple solution with no moving parts. It is a solid steel wheel with an airless polyurethane rubber exterior. It’s patented universal fitting lug-pattern system easily mounts on all current UNIVERSAL VEHICLE MOUNTING SYSTEM passenger vehicles thereby reducing the need to carry multiple spare tires or “donuts” to move vehicles onto tow trucks and trailers. Weighing in at 34 lbs. and a 24.5” D x 3” W, GUNIWHEEL™ is a compact solution to keep inside your towing compartment or neatly stacked on your tow bed. Each GUNIWHEEL™ can hold up to 2,500 lbs. and is strong enough to install on all four hub-wheel hub locations. They have a max speed of 5 mph and are primarily used to move vehicles onto lifts or tow beds. GUNIWHEEL™ comes in two versions: GUNIWHEEL™ 45 for 4 & 5 lug pattern vehicles, and GUNIWHEEL™ 56 for trucks and larger SUVs. At GUNIWHEEL™, we say, “No Wheels? NO PROBLEM!” For more information, call 1-888-554-6464 or www.guniwheel.com.

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Increase Dispatch Accurate Increase Increase Create c Improve

Marking Pen Depot

CW Mill

W Mill Hydraulic Mounting Kits equip a vehicle with live hydraulics, which means they can have hydraulic pressure anytime the engine is running, regardless of engine RPM’s or gear selection. They can be used for a wide array of applications such as TOW TRUCKS & WRECKERS, salt spreaders, snow plows, dump bodies, ground probes, airplane deicers, cranes, rollbacks, hydraulic air compressors or tools, and for much more. CW also manufactures Compressor Kits for refrigeration truck boxes and Alternator kits which provide increased battery charging for vehicles equipped with an increased amount of DC electric-powered accessories. Generator kits are available for vehicles adding AC power capability for items such as electric power tools but ultimately any AC powered device. For more information, visit www.cwkits.com.

uto Marker For Mapping Out Damaged Area On Auto Painted Surfaces and Windshields Marking Pen Depot offers the industry’s largest selection of markers from the biggest names in the industry: Markal, Dykem, Sakura, Artline, Sanford, and Arro. We offer paint pens that leave permanent, removable, weather resistant, high temperature, low chloride and semi permanent marks. Bulk priced markers are available for large users at less than $1.00 each. Replaceable nibs are available for most markers. For more information, visit www.markingpendepot.com.

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

Collins Manufacturing Collins Hi-Speed®Dolly

Collins Carrier Dolly System

6th Generation Self-Loading Dolly

An innovation borrowed from Collins’ early designs — the Damage‐Free solution to loading Carriers: Rolling instead of dragging up the bed.

SAFEST Safety First! Safety RatchetSystem — forTower Safety — Prevents accidents and provides more options in difficult environments, (like snow, ice, gravel, slopes, tight spaces), when loading.

MOST SERVICEABLE No expensive replacements or repairs — no cutting, welding or downtime. Replace damaged parts on the spot with common hand tools in just minutes.

CLEARANCE High‐Ends and Low Profiles. Carrier Dolly lifts vehicles higher off the ground to easily clear carrier bed with low load angles.

LIGHTEST Heavy‐duty. Light‐weight. Industry’s lightest‐weight dolly. Weighing only 54 lb. with static load capacity at nearly 80x its own weight (4,280 lb. with 5.70x8 tires).

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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DAMAGE‐FREE Damage‐Free Loading. No hooks, chains or cables ever touch the vehicle. Vehicles simply ride the dollies up and down the bed.

WIDE‐RANGE Load hybrids, high‐end, electric, all‐wheel or fourwheel drive vehicles with nohook points. The Carrier Dolly System also doubles as a motorcycle dolly. For more information, visit www.collinsdollies.com.

Dynamic “Python”

4-YEAR WARRANTY 5000LB FULLY EXTEND WHEEL LIFT 8000LB TOW RATING 82 INCHES OF REACH 25 DEGREES OF POWER AND NEG TILT

OPTIONS PLASTIC POLY FENDER WHICH ARE LIGHTER, YET STRONGER AND WILL NEVER RUST 8000LB RAMSEY WINCH STAINLESS STEEL PYLON

OUR Customers have been asking for a unit that would:

• • • •

Lift faster & higher Provide better weight transfer Have the sleek appearance of the Lightning Body design Have large tool boxes and easy access to hydraulics.

For more infomation, visit: www.dynamicmfg.com or anthonydynamic@mac.com.

The First Choice in Third-Party Mailing! Skip the trip to the post office and save time finding owner / lienholder information. ADD offers web-based certified letter tools and access to more state databases than any other company of its kind.

For more information, contact: info @ add123.com | 866.923.3123

www.towprofessional.com -4881 ADD Tow Professional Ad_Cert Letter R2.indd 1

Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

10/2/19 8:19 AM

WEBFLEET Solutions WEBFLEET Integration with Preferred Dispatching Software for Towers Dispatching is essential to your business. It is also frequently quoted as one of the biggest headaches in towing. But today, WEBFLEET can help streamline the repetitive business process and reduce the potential for mistakes that can plague even the most organized tow managers. Webfleet Solutions, formerly known as TomTom Telematics, is one of the world’s leading telematics solution providers dedicated to fleet management, vehicle telematics, and connected car services. Its main fleet management software, WEBFLEET, offers towers a complete GPS vehicle tracking solution providing PTO status with a connection to a whole ecosystem of 3rd party solutions. WEBFLEET gives you everything you need to deliver a dynamic order dispatch and handling service – from start to finish. Dynamic dispatching with status, location, and ETA information, WEBFLEET enables you to identify the next job’s most suitable driver. You can send instructions to their PRO Driver Terminal and remotely receive job status updates. Don’t let traffic ruin your plan – equip your drivers with Webfleet Solutions and minimize delays and always take the fastest route and dynamically reschedule around the traffic jams. For more information, visit www.webfleet.com.

Talbert Manufacturing Inc.

Double Drop Series 35 to 55-Ton Models

• •

•

• • •

• • • • 40

Ultra-low deck height for unmatched clearance and simplified route logistics. Sliding pin or swinging teardrop connections available for enhanced tractor compatibility. Multiple gooseneck options – mechanical, hydraulic or fixed – customized to your hauling need Deck Height: 18 in. Loaded 1-1/2 in. Apitong Flooring Outside Mainbeams Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

www.towprofessional.com

•

Tapered Bridge Ramp With Traction Bars (HRG/SRG) Full Width Rear Bridge Platform With 1-1/8 in. Shiplap Air Suspension With Manual Raising and Lowering Axles: 25,000 lb. Capacity Full Capacity Evenly Distributed Brakes: 16-1/2 in. x 7 in. with Automatic Slack Adjusters Full Capacity Evenly Distributed Estimated Empty Weight: Starting At 14,920 lbs.

For more information, visit www.talbertmfg.com

Clore Automotive JNCAIR 12V Jump Starter / Portable Power Supply / Air Compressor

he JNCAIR takes multi-function professional jump starting to the highest level. It features our exclusive Clore PROFORMER battery technology, specifically designed for vehicle jump starting. It delivers high peak amps, extended cranking power, numerous jumps per charge, and a long service life. Plus, with automatic charging from a built-in charger, extra-long cables and a rubberized base that won’t mar a vehicle surface, the JNCAIR is as convenient as it is powerful. Its integrated Air Delivery System can fill a 15” vehicle tire from flat in four minutes, features a 12’ coiled air hose, utilizes an accurate and easy-to-read gauge and has a screw-on chuck that won’t scratch customer wheels. Includes a coupon for a one-time, fixed-fee ($150) out-of-warranty repair, no matter how old the unit is or why it is broken. Simply box it up and send it to us with a check for the coupon amount, and we will repair or replace it, even if it is five or seven years old. Power you can depend on, that’s Jump-N-Carry! For more information, visit www.cloreautomotive.com.

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

Hide-A-Lift VIPER WHEEL LIFT

COBRA WHEEL LIFT

Need a quick and easy unit to tow most consumer vehicles? Viper costs less, is quicker than most competitive self-loaders, is easy to mount, and can be working for you in no time. • Fully hydraulic underlift (in/out and up/down) • Twin 3-½” lift cylinders • 4,000-lb.+ lift capacity • Suggested minimum 10,000 GVW chassis • Hydraulic claws (no springs to malfunction causing damage) • Self-centering head • Brass bushings on king pin • In-cab 6-function control • Double pump for speed and power • Extra frame stiffening recommended • Unique under-body construction

Looking for a tow unit with a little more power? • Heavy-duty lifting 6”x 6” main beam • 4,000-lb.+ lift capacity • Suggested minimum 10,000 GVW chassis • 72” reach • Full 90-degree loading (great for parallel parked cars) • In-cab 8-function control • Quick connect for easy removal • Double pump for speed and power • Twin 3-½” lift cylinders for more speed and power • Hydraulic claws (no springs to malfunction causing damage) • Self-centering head • Brass bushings on king pin • 12,000-lb. winch available • Built-in frame stiffener • Extra frame stiffening recommended More info: https://hidealift.com/cobra/.

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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Steck MFG.

BigEasy GLO with Easy Wedge & Carrying Case

BigEasy Loop

Glow-in-the-dark powder coating allows you to see the tool at night or through tinted windows. • 55 inches long. • Improved non-marring wedge. Now it’s wider, longer, and smoother. • Lock Knob Lifter for cars with flat lock knobs at the top of the door. • Easy Wedge for inflatable controlled opening of door for insertion of the BigEasy • Paint Protector reduces friction between the car door and the BigEasy • Carrying Case with convenient pockets for holding all of your lockout tools.

A simple and inexpensive device to assist the technician in using the BigEasy to open locked cars by grasping door handles and window cranks. The BigEasy Loop snaps on to any of our BigEasy Lockout Tools to provide easy leverage to pull door handles and window cranks during the door unlocking process. Handy accessory tool easily snaps on the end of the BigEasy Tool avoiding need to purchase additional and more costly specialty tools. BigEasy Loop is made from high-density polyethylene which provides a strong but flexible tool to adapt to any angle required to complete the unlocking process. It is mold injected with reflective substances which will ‘Glo’ after absorbing sunlight for use with tinted windows and headlights for night time lockouts. BigEasy Loop is easily stored in pant’s pocket or BigEasy Carrying Case. Visit www.steckmfg.com.

BigEasy Night Light Suction cup LED light illuminates dark car interiors. A great addition to your BigEasy kit, the BigEasy Night Light allows hands-free illumination of the vehicle interior at night to allow tow driver, lock-out technician, officer and/ or first responder to locate the door lock or keys while using the BigEasy Lock Out tool or other similar devices. Suction-cup design adheres the Night Light to the windshield or window of the vehicle. Powerful LEDs illuminate the interior, so you know exactly where to position the BigEasy tool.

Lodar

“L

odar is the smartest move I ever made,” shares S&S Mobile. Our wireless actuator systems are the top performing product for 2019. Our systems wirelessly control your hand levers, so you can operate your truck from a safe distance. Choose from systems that work with air (up to 16 functions) or electric (up to six functions) levers. FIND US: www.lodar.com CALL US: 888-685-6327. www.towprofessional.com

Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

TP_V7i9.qxp_Tow Professional 12/16/18 8:48 PM Page 48

TOP SERVICES 2018 ECM ECM Performance Performance

ECM Performance CM Performance provides provides Engine Control Engine Control Module (ECM) Module (ECM) programming and Diesel programming and Diesel Particulate Particulate Filter (DPF) Tuning. Filter (DPF) DeletionDeletion Tuning. In real world work In real world work applications, applications, repeated drive at times at less repeated short driveshort times less than highway speeds are than highway speeds are very very common. Also, trucks are increasingly used as machines requiring long idle and extended use in PTO (Power Take Off) common. Also, trucks are increasingly used as machines Mode. Both scenarios prevent a truck from properly going into its regen cycle whichuse is supposed to clean the DPFTake filter. Off) requiring long idle and extended in PTO (Power This is where the trouble begins. A clogged DPF filter can Mode. Both scenarios prevent a truck from properly going result in diesel soot backing up into the engine, causing damage to the VGT turbo, fuel EGR solenoid. Also, into its regen cycle which isactuator, supposed toinjectors cleanand the DPF filter. the unburned fuel injected into the exhaust system, as part of This is where thethetrouble begins. Athe clogged filter the regen cycle, can go into crankcase DPF contaminating enginebacking oil.Customers unbolt thethe ECMengine, from the engine block, can result in diesel soot up into causing unplug the harness connections and ship it to ECM damage to the VGT Performance. actuator, For turbo, fuel injectors and EGR most applications, the original engine data is immediately read from the ECM and backed up three ways for solenoid. Also, the unburned fuel injected into the exhaust the customer’s protection. system, as part of the regen cycle, can gowww.ecmperformance.com into the crankcase contaminating the engine oil. Customers unbolt the ECM Wrecker Rentals from the engine block, unplug the harness connections and ship it to ECM Performance. For most applications, Wrecker Rentals, Inc. provides full-service tow truckthe rental for the lower 48 states. They provide short-term (three-day minioriginal engine data is immediately read from the ECM and mum) and long-term tow truck rental of late model light-duty wreckers and roll-back tow trucks. They distribute trucks from backed up three ways for the customer’s protection. For more Atlanta, Georgia, & Dallas, Texas, and, in most cases, can have a information, visit www.ecmperformance.com. truck to you within 24 hours of approval. www.rentawrecker.com

Wrecker Rentals Inc.

recker Rentals, Inc. provides full-service tow truck rental for the lower 48 states. They provide shortterm (three-day minimum) and long-term tow truck rental of late model light-duty wreckers and roll-back tow trucks. They distribute trucks from Atlanta, Georgia, & Dallas, Texas, and, in most cases, can have a truck to you within 24 hours of Professional approval. For more information, 48 Tow | Volume 7 • Issue 9 | www.towprofessional.com visit www.rentawrecker.com.

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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Recovery Billing

The average tow man istowman excellent at what he average is he does best and that’s towing and recovery. Billing can be complex and when at what he does starting excellent out in business, it can be a that’s towing and best, and challenge to design recovery. Billing can be complex the right billing and invoicing systems to and when starting out in business, take advantage of the it recovery can bework a challenge to design that’s being perthe right billing and invoicing formed. Think about it.systems You could beto los-take advantage of ing thousands per month for unbilled services for what is essenthea clerical recovery work that’s being performed. tially oversight. Bob and Eric bring their expertise to sem- Think about it. You inars throughout the year in Massachusetts and across the conticould be losing thousands per month for unbilled services for nent. Groups are small, with only 20 towing companies per session, which for a more focused, one-on-one learning expewhat ismakes essentially a clerical oversight. Bob and Eric bring their rience and higher success rates. expertise to seminars throughout the year in Massachusetts We especially take care to help other businesses overcome the red tape and wall of legal babble that prevents towing comand across the continent. Groups are small with only 20 towing panies from being paid. We will help you to navigate the legal companies session, makes for a more focused, oneroadblocks and red per tape, helping you towhich get paid for your work without fail. All it takes is a robust system which youhigher can apply success to on-one learning experience and rates. every job that you complete. We especially take care to help other businesses overcome www.recoverybillingunlimited.com

the red tape and wall of legal babble that prevents towing

Holly’s Towing Dispatch companies from being paid. We will help you to navigate the legal and redand tape, helping you to get paid for your Holly’sroadblocks Towing Dispatch answers dispatches solely for the towingwithout and recovery industry, andtakes is available you 24/7,system which you can work fail. All it is atorobust 365 days a year. apply to every job that you complete. For more information, Your company chooses when visit www.recoverybillingunlimited.com. Holly’s Towing Dispatch works best for your company. Do you need help on nights and weekends? 24/7? We accommodate your needs no matter what time of day. With 20 plus years’ experience, Holly’s Towing Dispatch takes and dispatches all olly’s Towing calls directly to drivers, an on-call manager, or in-house dispatchDispatch answers er. Whatever works best for you, we can accommodate. Our goal and purpose are to get your drivers on-scene quickly by proand dispatches solely viding fast and accurate service. Give us a call today at 800-7303909 findtowing out how Holly’s for tothe andTowing Dispatch can help YOU.

Holly’s Towing Dispatch

recovery industry, and www.hollystowingdispatch.com is available to you 24/7, 365 days a year. Your company chooses when Holly’s Towing Dispatch works best for your company. Do you need help on nights and weekends? 24/7? We accommodate your needs no matter what time of day. With 20 plus years’ experience, Holly’s Towing Dispatch takes and dispatches all calls directly to drivers, an on-call manager, or in-house dispatcher. Whatever works best for you, we can accommodate. Our goal and purpose are to get your drivers on-scene quickly by providing fast and accurate service. Give us a call today at 800-730-3909 to find out how Holly’s Towing Dispatch can help YOU. For more information, visit us at www.hollystowingdispatch.com.

Best Tools

est Tools is a family-owned and operated business which started over 35 years ago handcrafting lockout tools in the USA striving to have the best quality lockout gear in the industry. From day one, all Best Tools lockout-tool equipment was, and still is, 100% made in the USA along with using raw materials right here in America. Every lockout tool we make is produced from scratch right here in Northwest Arkansas. Because quality means durability, “our lockout tools take a lickin’ and keep on pickin’.” In addition to support businesses here, we are committed to learning from and growing with the ever-changing needs of all the industries we serve. In the last 5 years, Best Tools decided to make a jump to carefully rebrand and re-market the image and expand the product line outside of what we manufacture. We started hitting the streets getting the name out there and by request from a variety of customers, Best Tools grew. After diligently picking only the elite manufactures out in the market, we wanted to grow with only the best from wireless tow lights, emergency lighting, rigging and recovery equipment, tie-down straps, skates, transport and trucking products, wire rope, winches, and industrial radio wireless remote controls, suspension enhancement products to much, much more. The list will always be evolving to serve the customer in the best way. Best Tools offers a full domestic line with an imported option to satisfy every customer throughout all the different industries we serve. To this day, some of the dealers and relationships we have made with customers throughout the variety of industries we serve are still with us growing together. Also, in the last five years, we invested in a van that would hit the ground fully stocked with all kinds of

products calling on industries from towing companies, mechanic shops, dealerships, body shops, construction companies, trucking companies, police and fire stations to municipalities. If we feel you could use Best Tools products, we will stop and see you, now that we have two vans hitting the streets. Talking to customers face-to-face and establishing a relationship, we have modified and improved our lockout tools and have designed new products to help the towing industry. Just to name a few items, our Silver Snatcher lockout tool (our version of the Axle chain and Steering Wheel strap) has been a huge hit in the market. Now for us, it’s not just about success in the past making tools that that match the variety of needs, it’s also about being relevant to today’s challenges, so there is always something new we try to bring to the industry every year. In the last year, so far, we have developed a hand full of newer products by high demand requests from our customers: One is the “Mega Bag,” a bigger air wedge with a strong insert to get through the toughest doors in the market. Another is the “ Average Joe” which is a smaller version of the very poplar standard magic wand for those who have a shorter reach and need something more versatile. The “Extra Long Magic Wand” is great for big trucks with a 70” reach. Also new is the “SlimPicker” which is great for mustangs and convertibles with a slightly smaller diameter than the magic wands. So, you can not only get dependable, quality lockout gear from Best Tools, but now you can also get top notch rigging and recovery equipment, transport and trucking straps and restraints, emergency lighting and strobe light heads, truck accessories and work lighting, safety gear, wireless www.towprofessional.com

tow lights and wireless control systems, skates, winches, wire-rope and synthetic slings to much more. All of this is from a company committed to providing cutting-edge technologies inspired by direct customer feedback. Best Tools has always been a “grass root” business focusing on reaching out to the customer in a personal way. Remember, “When People Rely on You You Can Depend on Us!” You can check out our products through your local dealer, check us out online www.besttoolsusa.com or give us a call 800-541-8568. Maybe we will even see you a trade show!

Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

Winches Inc.

Mobile Create USA IMPROVE COMMUNICATION AND STAFF MANAGEMENT

inches Inc. with their three brick and mortar locations, is committed to providing your company application solutions for equipment like a new winch, control, PTO, hydraulic or pneumatic product or even an entire system. Winches Inc.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pricing on services saves time, money, and resources. They sell, service, and design nearly every product you would need for hydraulic or pneumatic lifting, while standing behind every piece of equipment that leaves their stores. They also have experienced and professional support staff that are dedicated to bringing value to and continuously improving the products and services they supply. Winches Inc. in the market of winches, has one goal: to thoroughly know winches and winch applications. In Tulsa, their staff has extensive product knowledge in many other brands such as DP, BRADEN, Ramsey, Warn, and more and a highly trained customer service department to take care of any winch or hoist-related situation. For more information, call us at (877) 495-9721 or visit us online at www.WinchesInc.com.

Professional IP Radio Platform in Mobile Create USA The Professional IP Radio Platform in Mobile Create USA will provide you an excellent experience of using efficient 2-way radio communication with the crystal-clear voice quality and the coastto-coast connection. Our platform also is integrating the precise GPS tracking. Reducing Your Operation Cost and Boost Your Business by Quick Starting Our Platform Our platform BUNDLES the 2-Way communication, the GPS tacking, and the device rental fee which will reduce your communication cost or GPS system cost. For easy and quick start for using our platform, we also offer the monthto-month device rental plan in the AFFORDABLE PRICE to avoid spending the huge capital expenditure upfront for our customers. Our platform is using the cellular network which is NOT REQUIRED to take the FCC LICENSE. For more information, visit www.mcusainc.com.

Fleet Management System

MPT-H1

Tow Professional | Volume 8 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 9

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IM-550 (NEW)

MPT-100

Custom Built Manufacturing

Be Sure to check out our new website!

ustom Built Mfg. LLC came to be after 30 years in the Towing industry and 35 in the Auto Body Industry as Dangelo’s Auto Body and Repairs. At Custom Built Mfg. LLC., it has always been about three things:

welding to assembly our technicians have eyes on every step of the maufacturing process as well as Derek Dangelo’s (Owner) personal supervision occurs at every step of the manufacturing processes. You will even see Derek involved in hands-on when issues arise. For more information, visit www.custombuiltmfg.com.

1)The Customer, 2) The Customer, 3) The Customer

www.custombuiltmfg.com

That has carried over into the heavy-duty towing vehicles manufactured in Kane, Pennsylvania with the care and pride that only the small town attitude brings to the table. That being true, team work and the very BEST our trucks can be all of the time. Quality is number One at Custom Built Mfg. LLC. using quality American made; steel, aluminum, fasteners, hydraulics, cables, winches, lights, rings and pinions for our rotators, and as many accessories whenever possible. Custom Built means just that, hand-crafted and hand-fit for precise long life operation. From metal forming,

NEW www.towprofessional.com

Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

TOWERS

INSURANCE

By Hal Kresser-Hal Kresser Agency

nstead of shopping for the right insurance, you should be shopping for the right insurance agent. Just like not all insurance is the same, not all agents are the same. Towing is a niche market for us because Hal Kresser, the agency principal, is very interested in the industry. He worked for a towing service when he was young, and even today, he is WreckMaster Level II certified and can operate your equipment. Can your current agent do that? Hal is also involved in the industry as he is an active, participating member of the Towing and Recovery Association of Ohio. In fact, he is so well respected that he was nominated and elected to be president of the local region and is currently serving his fourth term. Before he was an insurance agent, he spent 20 years as a cop. He is 48

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certified in accident reconstruction and knows the laws and how to deal with police officers. He’s good to have as an advocate in some of the collision claims that happen when there are disputes as to fault, and he can help you decide when to fight traffic tickets and violations and when not. For example, we had one last year where a person on a bicycle rode into the side of a rollback that was making a right turn. The police officer listed the driver at fault for violating a crosswalk. After talking to the driver, he learned that the bike hit the truck by the back axel. That meant the truck was almost fully through the turn before being struck. That makes it the bicyclist’s fault. He contacted the traffic supervisor and discussed how the report was improperly written and explained why it was not the driver’s fault. The supervisor agreed and got the officer to re-write the report correctly. This saved the customer

from having a chargeable accident on his record and saved the insurance company from paying a personal injury claim. Claims adjustors are trained to take a police report as gospel. Unfortunately, not all crash reports are written correctly. Hal has the experience to know and can help when it happens to keep our clients from being unjustly charged with accidents. We provide our partnered tow companies and service providers with a network that allows them to manage requests, track their truck locations in real-time, and more. The best part: it costs nothing for a tow company or a service provider to register with TowTrax. Our approach was to identify industry problems between service providers and tow trucks and fix them. When you choose the right agent, he will be able to place you with an insurance carrier that best suits your needs. As an independent agent, we can add new companies that enter the market. We have seen companies come into the towing market for a few years and then get back out. When that happens, you can lose your insurance through no fault of your own. A good agent is on top of that and can make transitioning to another carrier seamless. You need to build a relationship with your agent. He can help you decide when to file a claim or when to pay out of pocket. He can advise you on ways to keep your rates down as well as help you implement plans to avoid liability claims. We recommend

things like putting cameras in the trucks to document crashes. They can be invaluable in situations where fault is in dispute. Choose the right agent and build the relationship on trust and integrity. The agent should be viewed as a stakeholder in your business. In a recent Google review, Tiffany Corey wrote “even when we were told there was no hope by everyone else, they didn’t give up and kept pushing forward. I work for J&F Towing, and we are a small company, so something as major as insurance can really make or break a company. So, if you are needing insurance, I would highly recommend giving them a chance.” You need a good, well managed insurance portfolio to help your business be successful and the agent needs your business to be successful to make his business successful. If you are contemplating any big expansion plans such as adding a new building or moving to a larger facility in another part of town, you should involve your agent during the planning stage to find out in advance what the impact on the insurance will be. Many times, I get the call to add something like a building or a second location to the policy after the fact. Then the insured is upset when he sees how much it costs. Now it’s too late. To learn more, call Hal Kresser today at 877-412-3434 or email him hal@kresseragency.com.

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

TOWERS

INSURANCE

ustin Insurance has specialized in Towing & Recovery insurance since 1991, and they are dedicated to quality service. By working with many different companies, they can offer a competitive insurance

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package. No matter if you own one truck or 30, are located on the East coast or the West, they are willing to fulfill your insurance needs. Austin Insurance, Inc. has specialized in providing

agency will offer Help in complying with D.O.T. & OSHA regulations and guidelines...While we are agents for sev-eral Towing Programs, We are also an Agent for the TOWER... They also offer the following other coverage’s. Please contact them for fur-ther information or with any questions you may have. • Auto Transporters • Trucking Insurance • Motor Truck Cargo • Salvage/Recyclers • Pollution Coverage • Umbrella • Workers Compensation • Bonds

coverage for towing opera-tions for many years. They have many companies to offer comprehensive pack-ages to provide protection for all aspects of your business. Austin Insurance, Inc. provides REPOSSESSION INSURANCE, including “wrongful repossession,” hold harmless, and employee bonds. Also as a service our

At Austin Insurance, Inc., “We’ll come see you” isn’t just a catchphrase. They want to provide you with not only insur-ance, but a full understanding of your coverage’s, and they will do all that they can to make that happen, including com-ing to see you! For more information, visit www.wreckerins.com.

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

Insurance

TOWERSInsurance

INSURANCE

coordinator, Susan Evanoff, all of which coordinator, Evanoff, all of which Our team of Susan Towing & Recovery specialists includes are dedicated to our Towing Recovery dedicated to ourAmy Towing & Recovery Curtisare Cooper, CPCU, Berry, CIC, Amy Sockwell,&CISR, customers. This team offers timely servThiscoordinator, team offers timely Jamie Harrelson, CISR, customers. and our claims Susanservice, on-time renewal quotes, quick new ice, on-time renewal quotes, quick new Evanoff, all ofquotes whichand are dedicated our Towing & Recovery business the knowledgeto and business quotes and the knowledge and expertise required make sure yourservice, on-time renewal customers. This teamtooffers timely expertise required to make sure your operation proper coverage quotes, quick has newthebusiness quoteswhile and the knowledge has the proper coverage while not breaking the bank.operation Virtually availand expertise required to make sure your operation has not breaking the bank. Virtually available 7 days a week, this team will Originally established in 1950,erage MikeinKeith Insurance while not breaking the this bank. Virtually Originally established in 1950, Mike the industry. With a growing the proper impresscoverage you with their speed, knowledge able 7 days a week, team will has four Missouri locations offering a broad range of available 7 days a week, this team will impress you their Keith (MKI) Insurance has four Missouri locaand friendliness. base of “A” rated carriers, we are able to Originally established in 1950, Mike erage in the industry. With a growing impress you with their speed,with knowledge tions insurance offering a broad range ofand insurance offer coverage inthese most years, states with no speed, knowledge, Mike Keith Insurance has become the products services. Throughout and friendliness. Keith Insurance has four Missouri locabase of “A” rated carriers, we are able to and friendliness. products and services. Throughout these radius restrictions. agency of choice in the Midwest and is wetions have taken pride in range helping our customersoffer understand Mike with Keithno Insurance has become the agency ofbecome choice in offering a broad of insurance Mike Keith Insurance has the coverage in most states years, we have taken pride in helping our Our team of Towing & Recovery spequickly reaching beyond as we expand and select the balance between affordability and quality and reaching asMidwest we expand products andright services. Throughout these restrictions. of choice and is customers understand and select the cialists includesradius Curtis Cooper, CPCU, the Midwest our services to is all quickly areasagency of the map. Letbeyond us in the we have taken pride helping our interest Our team ofCISR, Towing Recovery spereaching beyond we60+ expand ofyears, coverage. MKI focuses oninkeeping the ofSockwell, our our&services all areas of the map. Let us utilizeasour right balance between affordability and utilize ourto 60+ years ofquickly Insurance experiAmy Berry, CIC, Amy quality of coverage. MKI focuses onand keepJamie CISR, and our claims ence toCPCU, show youexperience whatour we services have offer customers understand select thetoHarrelson, cialists includes Curtis Cooper, to allyou areas of the client’s first and all employees strive exceed customer years of insurance totoshow what we map. have Let us ing the interest of our client’s first and all in the arena of Auto Liability, Auto right balance affordability and utilizeLiability, our 60+Auto yearsPhysical of Insurance experiAmy Berry, CIC, AmytoSockwell, CISR, expectations onbetween every level. offer in the arena of Auto Damage, employees strive to exceed customer Physical Damage, Garagekeepers quality of coverage. MKI focuses on keepJamie Harrelson, CISR, and our claims ence to show you what we have to offer A niche agency, Garagekeepers Liability, On-Hook/Cargo, Property, Workers expectations on every level. MKI has been successful in the Towing Liability, On-Hook/Cargo, Property, ing the interest of our client’s first and all in the arena of Auto Liability, Auto & Recovery Industry bysucpartnering with Compensation, A niche agency, MKI has been Workers Compensation and more. As and more. As your employees to exceed customer Physical Garagekeepers cessful in theTow Towing & Recovery Industry your full-service agency, we look Damage, forward major & strive Recovery carriers and full-service agency, we look forward expectations onTow every level. Liability, On-Hook/Cargo, Property, by partnering with major & Recovery to speaking with you soon regarding your fostering these relationships to be able to speaking with you soon regarding carriers andAfostering these relationships Towing & Recovery Insurance needs. niche agency, MKI has been sucWorkers Compensation and more. As offer ourour insureds the best prices and your Towing & Recovery Insurance to be to able to offer the cessful in theinsureds Towing &best Recovery Industry your full-service agency, we look forward comprehensive coverage in the needs. pricesthe andmost the most comprehensive covwww.mkeithins.com by partnering with major Tow & Recovery to speaking with you soon regarding your industry. a growing base of “A” rated For more information, visit carriersWith and fostering these relationships Towing & Recovery Insurance needs. carriers, we are able to offer coverage in www.mkeithins.com. to be able to offer our insureds the best to fit your insurance needs. Not all risks Towing, Transportation, Repossession, most states no radius restrictions. prices and with the most comprehensive cov- years in business, your own www.mkeithins.com are identical; Cargo, Excess Cargo, Garage and or

Cindy Horn, Janice LaVitte, and Bryan Westfall are a unit at Weiss Insurance that specializes in various transportation risks. They design your insurance policy

loss experience, driver experience, and Repair Facilities, and Auto Sales are some type of business will affect your insurance of the types of business that they write. cost. They understand your business and They have markets for worker’s compento fit your insurance needs. Not all risks Towing, Transportation, Repossession, your business needs. They wear many sation, group health, property, general liaare identical; years in business, your own Cargo, Excess Cargo, Garage and or hats as independent agents, representing bility, and personal insurance. loss experience, driver experience, and Repair Facilities, and Auto Sales are some various insurance companies, which type ofabusiness will affect your insurancewww.weiss-ins.com of the types of business that they write. allow them to “design” policy for you.

Cindy Horn, Janice LaVitte, and Bryan Westfall are a unit at Weiss Insurance that specializes in various transportation risks. They design your insurance policy

cost. They understand your business and your business needs. They wear many hats as independent agents, representing various insurance companies, which allow them to “design” a policy for you.

They have markets for worker’s compensation, group health, property, general liability, and personal insurance. www.weiss-ins.com

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Tow Professional | Volume 7 • Issue 9 | www.towprofessional.com

W W W.S H O P H A R D M O D E G E A R . C O M

2 6 0 - 8 2 4 -3 57 3 52 52

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to be able to offer our insureds the best prices and the most comprehensive cov-

Horn, Janice LaVitte, and Cindy Horn, Janice and Bryan Bryan Westfall are a LaVitte, unit at Weiss Westfall are a unit at Weiss Insurance Insurance that specializes in various that specializes in various transportation transportation risks. They design your risks. They design your insurance policy insurance policy to fit your insurance needs. Not all risks are identical;

www.mkeithins.com

years in business, your own to fit your insurance needs. Not loss all risks experience, driverinexperience, and are identical; years business, your own loss experience, driver type of business willexperience, affect yourand type of business affect your insurance insurance cost.will They understand cost. business They understand your business and your and your business your business needs. They wear many needs. They wear many hats as hats as independent agents, representing independent agents, representing various insurance companies, which various insurance companies, which allow them to “design” a policy for you. allow them to “design” a policy for you. Towing, Transportation,

Repossession, Cargo, Repossession, Excess Cargo, Towing, Transportation, Garage and or Repair Facilities, Cargo, Excess Cargo, Garage and orand RepairSales Facilities, Auto are some Auto are and some of Sales the types of of the types of business thatThey they write. business that they write. have They havefor markets for worker’s compenmarkets worker’s compensation, sation, group health, property, general liagroup health, property, general bility, and personal insurance. liability, and personal insurance. For more information, visit www.weiss-ins.com www.weiss-ins.com.

Tow Professional | Volume 7 • Issue 9 | www.towprofessional.com

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

TOWERS

INSURANCE

The Current Status of

TOWING INSURANCE By Jeff Spadafora-President/CEO Zellner Insurance Agency, LLC

e have seen the current market for towing insurance just go crazy. Even if you don’t have any claims, the increase in premiums is at least 44%. What can be done? The answer is simple: “take the bull by the horns” and get away from standard carriers by looking into a captive insurance program. A captive insurer is generally defined as an insurance company that is wholly owned and controlled by its insureds. Its primary purpose is to insure the risks of its owners, and its insureds benefit from the captive’s underwriting profits. Underwriting profits can be generated by reduced claims and investments. Zellner Insurance Agency has teamed up with a Managing General Agency that has experience in setting programs up for specific industries that were experiencing premium increases. The results have been tremendous! Claims have

UNIVERSAL VEHICLE MOUNTING SYSTEM

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Use GUNIWHEEL™ to mount and move vehicles onto tow beds

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UNIVERSAL LUG PATTERN DESIGN One-Stop Visits Safely Mount Vehicles No more multiple spare tires

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Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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been reduced because they are either settled for less money or not initiated at all, members received dividends, and safety increased. We anticipate that initial insurance premiums will be better than what we are seeing now, but the real benefit is in years two and three. To participate, the members will make an initial investment and pay their premium. The amount of the initial premium will be determined by the data we collect showing current claims as well as premium size for each member. The investment can be paid in full or over time.

The key to the success of this captive relies on you implementing the safety requirements that have been proven to work. For instance, wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it be nice to have a claim be denied or made to go away for a nominal cost instead of the large payouts you have experienced? I can forward you links that will explain a captive in more detail, as well as videos that were used to stop a

claim dead in its tracks. We are interviewing companies now and would like to speak with you if you think this will fit your needs. This is an investment in the future of your business and the industry as a whole. Please contact Jeff Spadafora at Zellner Insurance Agency at 904-626-9522 or email jeff@zellnerinsurance.com.

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Volume 8 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 9

Tow Professional

TOWERS

INSURANCE

XINSURANCE “With XINSURANCE, You can Purchase Customized Liability Insurance Coverage that will Protect You in all the Areas that Your Homeowners, Employers, and Business Insurance Policies Won’t or Can’t!

here are few things as troubling as hearing that you’re not covered by your insurance policy. By providing you with access to customized liability insurance policies that cover gaps in your traditional insurance coverage, XINSURANCE helps minimize exposures and maximize peace of mind. The reality is most liability insurance provides adequate protection for homeowners, business owners, and employers. Unfortunately, in today’s litigious society, there are huge areas of exposure in the event of a lawsuit. XINSURANCE fills that liability insurance void for you.

TROUBLE GETTING COVERAGE? XINSURANCE also specializes in helping individuals and

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businesses who live a lifestyle or participate in activities that make them difficult for traditional carriers to insure. If you’ve been denied, non-renewed, or canceled coverage, don’t give up quite yet. Chances are XINSURANCE can help.

FOR TOWING AND REPO COMPANIES When a vehicle has been towed or repossessed, there is no way to know the kinds of damages that could occur during the transportation or holding period. At XINSURANCE, our goal is to provide coverage for those gaps to those who need it most where regular insurance companies do not. Whether you need insurance for wrongful driver repossession, risks in the transportation of goods, liability insurance for risks associated with garage keepers and

watchdogs, or something else, XINSURANCE is the insurance partner you want for the coverage you need.

TOWING AND REPO INSURANCE With XINSURANCE, you can purchase customized liability insurance coverage that will protect you in all the areas that your homeowners, employers, and business insurance

policies won’t or can’t. Our underwriting team brings you over 30 years of experience, along with the ability to offer customized limits, coverage, deductibles, and premiums to create the perfect plan for your personal protection. For more information on XINSURANCE’S products & services, go to https://www.xinsurance.com/risk-class/ towing-operations-repossession-companies/.

DEALERS PLACE

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Volume 8 • Issue 9

Tow Professional

DEALERS DEALERS PLACE PLACE

2012 Peterbilt 388 with Jerr-Dan 35-ton Integrated HDL700/350INT • Stock Number U1396 • ISX15 Cummins – 500hp • Fuller RTL016913A 13-spd manual trans • 163,194 miles • 20,000lb Dana Spicer front axle/ 46,000lb Dana Spicer rears • 25,500lb GVWR

2020 International MV607 Extended Cab with 22ft Jerr-Dan SRR6T-WLP Steel Carrier • Stock Number U9029 • 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel – 260hp • Allison automatic transmission • 11,307 miles • 255/70R22.5 tires • 8,000lb front axle; 17,500lb rear axle • 25,500lb GVWR

2020 International MV607 Extended Cab • Stock Number U9029 • 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel – 260hp • Allison automatic transmission • 11,307 miles • 255/70R22.5 tires • 8,000lb front axle; 17,500lb rear axle • 25,500lb GVWR

Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc is the oldest active Jerr-Dan Corp distributor in the nation and we also proudly offer the Landoll line of transportation products, trailers tough enough to move the world. Since 1969. We have one of the largest inventories of new and used tow trucks, carriers, and trailers in the nation and a full parts and service facility. Financing is available, and the process is easy.

13401 US 70 Business Hwy West Clayton, NC 27520 • www.easternwrecker.com / 919-553-4038 60

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

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DEALERS PLACE

Tow Professional | Volume 8 â&#x20AC;¢ Issue 9

www.towprofessional.com

Market PLACE

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Volume 8 â&#x20AC;¢ Issue 9

Tow Professional

Advertiser Index COMPANY

Access Tools ........................................ 9 Alliance Funding ................................. 30 American Safety & Supply .............. 53 Austin Hinds ........................................ 61 Auto Data Direct ................................. 39 Beacon Software ............................... 21 Best Tools....................................... 14, 56 BudgetGPS .......................................... 55 Collins Dollies ..................................... 15 Custer Products .................................. 19 Custom Built ........................................ 20 CW Mill ................................................. 54 Dynamic ............................................... 59 Eastern Wrecker Sales, Inc ............. 60 ECM Performance.............................. 53 FlowStop .............................................. 64 GoLight ................................................. 50 GPS Fleet ............................................. 46 Management Solutions..................... 46 GUNI Wheel ........................................ 54

Tow Professional | Volume 8 • Issue 9

COMPANY

Hal Kresser .......................................... 63 HardMode Gear .................................. 52 Hide-a-Lift ............................................ 63 Hino .....................................................BC Holly’s Towing Dispatch .................... 41 HONK ................................................... 49 INA Towing Network ......................... 38 Jerr-Dan ............................IFC, Gatefold Lodar ..................................................... 21 Marking Pen Depot ............................ 63 MatJack .............................................IBC McMahon Truck Centers .................. 57 Midwest Keyless ................................ 14 Mike Keith Insurance ........................ 63 Mobile Create USA ........................... 51 Progressive.......................................... 13 PWOF ...............................................10-11 Ranger SST ......................................... 23 Recovery Billing.................................. 42 Ricks Truck .......................................... 62

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COMPANY

Robert Young ....................................... 62 RP Consulting ...................................... 51 RV Wheel ............................................. 63 Steck Mfg............................................. 52 The Will-Burt Company ..................... 35 TLC Truck & Equipment ..................... 60 Towbook ................................................. 3 Towing Museum ............................32-33 TowMate ................................................ 1 TowTruckLocator.com ....................... 56 United Plastic Fabricating .................. 7 VTS Systems ................................. 29, 63 Waters Truck ....................................... 58 Webfleet Solutions............................. 17 Weiss Ins.............................................. 63 Winches, Inc ....................................... 37 Wrecker Rentals Inc. ........................ 14 XINSURANCE ........................................ 5 Zellner Insurance ............................... 55

Helmets and Headsets

The Hurricane System will blow you away!

Easy to use headsets providing hearing protection and a convenient way for your team to communicate in noisy environments. Voice operated and no additional equipment required. Helmets have maximum comfort with Kevlar head protection, 6 color options available.

THE TRUCK IS JUST THE BEGINNING.

When you start up your new Hino Truck, our journey with you is just beginning. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because every Hino comes standard with a 5-Year Warranty, 24/7 HinoWatch, and Hino Insight Connected Vehicle Solution. Why? Because taking care of you and your truck is what we call the ULTIMATE OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE.