Volume 12 • Issue 7 • 2023 | www.towprofessional.com
TOWING
SOFTWARE & GPS
LOCK OUT
TOOLS
Plus:
WOMEN OF TOWING: TOWERS JUST DO INSIGHTFUL TALK: NO INSURANCE
FUEL 4 THOUGHT FRIENDS IN THE TOWING INDUSTRY
CREATED FOR OPERATORS, BY OPERATORS ROTATOR OPERATOR TRAINING A well-trained operator makes the difference that matters on the job. Grow your confidence and operator skills at Jerr-Dan Rotator Operator Training. Created by industry experts, our hands-on program is designed and customized for beginners to experienced operators.
INTERESTED? Scan to learn more.
TOW PROFESSIONAL
CONTENTS
TOWING & RECOVERY
6 | Jerr-Dan
16 | Photo Card Specialists
10 | TowMate
18 | Warrior Winches
12 | CW Mill
20 | Tracked Machines
14 | Zips
21 | ATRI EV APP
Women OF TOWING MICHELLE
WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM
TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS
INDUSTRY NEWS
BY
Volume 12 • Issue 7
36 | Tow Book
40 | Azuga
44 | Traxero
50 | Ranger SST
SUKOW
22 | Towers Just Do
INSIGHTFUL TALK
BY
DAN
LOCK OUT
TOOLS
MESSINA
26 | No Insurance
54 | Access Tool
FUEL 4 THOUGHT
BY
D.J.
HARRINGTON
CSP
32 | Friends in the Towing Industry
56 | Zips IN EVERY ISSUE 4 | Publisher’s Letter 59 | Dealers Place 2
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
62 | Market Place 64 | Ad Index
Update Status
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Complete
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2,072mi
Pickup
9777 S Las Vegas Blvd, A Destination 201 N Riverside
Photos & Videos
Las Vegas, NV 89183, USA 2,071 mi
Ave, Saint Clair, 480
79, Ml
Photos & Vid
eos (2)
PUBLISHER’S
LETTER
Volume 12 • Issue 7 WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM
TM
Professional Your Resource for Towing & Recovery
PUBLISHER Darian Weaver President & Publisher darian@towprofessional.com
PRODUCTION Sheila Maynard Editor Clint Cabiness Creative Director clint@dialedinmediagroup.com
IT’S SHOW SEASON…A SEASON TO REFLECT, LEARN AND IMPROVE.
Bogey Cat as Office Manager
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS September was a blur with 3 Tow Association shows! This year we had the North Carolina, Ohio Midwest Regional, and Tennessee Tow shows all in one month! It was a great time, had by all, and a blessing to be able to contribute to an association show. Let’s face it, the association shows fund legislation, training, memberships, and help fuel the same industry we pull from. Dan Messina provides us with some Insightful Talk on the importance of insurance and rates when it comes to your business. DJ Harrington’s Fuel for Thought in this issue focuses on the importance of great friendships and what connections can do for us. Michelle Sukow in this installment of Women of Towing talks about the pride, and selflessness built into towers because, “They Just Do.” In this issue, we feature Towing Software, Lockout Tools, and a wide array of products from the great folks at Zips! We take an in-depth look at towing software that helps you find the solution that best fits your business. Access Tools and ZIps shows our readers the advantages of their latest product being brought to the market to make your job easier. Tow Professional Podcast is available anywhere you find your favorite podcast, or on www.towprofessional.com. Thanks for your loyalty to our publication, and our men and women’s heart of service!
Darian Weaver President & Publisher, Tow Professional
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Laura Dolan – Traxeero D. J. Harrington CSP Dan Messina James Shellhaas – Ranger SST Tim Smith – Azuga Michelle Sukow Darian Weaver Matt Wesley – Towbook
Executive and Advertising Offices 1005 Mountain Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 Toll free: 888-802-8544 Fax: 205-978-1550 www.towprofessional.com Tow Professional is published nine times a year by Over The Mountain Media, Inc., 1005 Mountain Trace, Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, USA. Tow Professional is distributed free to qualified subscribers. Non-qualified subscription rates are $57.00 per year in the U.S. and Canada and $84.00 per year for foreign subscribers (surface mail). U.S. Postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama and additional mailing offices. Tow Professional is distributed to qualified Towing & Recovery’s Top Decision Makers. Publisher is not liable for all content (including editorial and illustrations provided by advertisers) of advertisements published and does not accept responsibility for any claims made against the publisher. It is the advertiser’s or agency’s responsibility to obtain appropriate releases on any item or individuals pictured in an advertisement. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher.
For a new free subscription, address changes or corrections, please visit www.towprofessional.com and click on the “subscribe” tab.
INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
The Repo Queen of Long Island By Matthew C. Fueston Matthew C. Fueston is a writer and editor in the B2B space and has been writing for almost 15 years about “big iron” equipment and the men and women who rely on it. From towing and recovery, to construction, mining, and oil and water drill rigs, he always puts the story of the real people in the field first and foremost. He may be reached at matt@fuestonassoc.com.
T
he Jerr-Dan MPL integrated lineup includes three models, each with a 4,000 lb. wheel lift and an optional winch. Lauren Konetsky is a Long Island native and lifelong resident of the island. She is a repo specialist for Advanced Asset Recovery and has been doing repos for the last 11 years. She mainly covers Nassau and Suffolk, but also travels regularly to the five boroughs and lower Westchester. She doesn’t just “dabble” in repos, either. Her boss and the manager of Advanced Asset Recovery, Mike Lopez, says he can rely on her for at least 100 cars per month. At least 100. And remember, this is in New York, where the applicable laws do not make it easy to repossess a vehicle. In New York, it is illegal for the police to help a repo service repossess a car. For each of those 100-plus cars, Lauren must take the car to the precinct to log the car in and notify the police of the repo. Once there, officers check out the vehicle, double-check the VIN, and run the plates to see if the car was stolen. Only after that is Lauren able to take it to her employer’s impound yard. “The job isn’t like you see in the movies,” she says. “I mean, this isn’t Kansas. Everybody’s car isn’t parked in front of their house. It’s in a big parking garage a couple blocks from their apartment. But sure, sometimes you have to deal with the person whose day you’re ruining.”
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“I learned early on that 80% of staying out of ‘situations’ is learning how to talk to people. Don’t disrespect them, be understanding, remember how stressful this whole thing is for them. Be empathetic. You can’t be confrontational. Others I know in this business have the same mentality. Anyone doing this job must figure out some way to learn de-escalation. You’d be surprised at how many people are pretty nice about it all.” She shrugs. “I really don’t have a list of crazy stories like you’d expect.” Sometimes—in certain areas, at certain hours— Lauren will have an extra person with her, for backup, for security, and maybe to help out with some tasks. But normally it’s just her. Due to the thousands of visits she’s made to various police precincts over the years, she knows the police officers in her area very, very well. “So, I feel secure enough,” she adds. “I still enjoy the job; I love the people I work for—Mark Lopez is the manager and Leticia Nunez is the owner. We were friends before I went to work for them, but I love the fact that they give me the equipment I need, and maybe most important of all to me, they never micromanage. That’s just not their style. And I don’t respond well to micromanagement anyway.” Lauren says that she was working at a small car dealership when a friend suggested she apply at a repo company that a friend of his owned. “I loved it right away,” she said. “Loved the freedom, the truck, the paycheck.” Mike Lopez, her employer for the past 5 years, met Lauren 10 years ago. “We worked together at another repo company. One time I was assigned to work with her, and it was obvious she knew her stuff. I saw her hook up a car, but our boss wouldn’t let her drive. Right then I told her, she should be driving. Her talent was being wasted on basic tasks. I only lasted 3 weeks at that company, but one of her strongest qualities is loyalty, so she stayed on there longer than she needed to before taking a job with another repo company.” “Fast forward a few years and I had my own company,
INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
Advanced Asset Recovery. I looked her up and asked her to go to work for me. I told her, ‘Lauren, I’ll buy you a truck if you come to work for me. It’ll be yours, no one else will drive it. In fact, you will get a new truck every 2 years, I’ll never put you in an old truck.” Mike grins and then adds, “I finally talked her into it.” Lauren got her first Jerr-Dan in November of 2022, an MPL NG. Mike buys his trucks from Atlanta Wrecker Sales, and he decided to work with them on something special for this particular purchase. Lauren and Mike had talked about her wish list. First of all, it had to be a Ford, preferably an F-550. Mike told her the ones Atlanta Wrecker had were not Fords, but she could probably get a truck the same size. This did not make her happy—she is a Ford devotee. But they also talked about how she would like the truck equipped. Of course, she needed an extended cab for her wheelchair, and so on. Finally, she mentioned a grey color that she just loved, but she knew that Advanced Asset Recovery’s livery was white. All their vehicles are white. But this was all just wish-list talk, anyway. Behind the scenes, Mike got to work with Robb Lowe, at Atlanta Wrecker Sales’ Chesnee, South Carolina location. It took some work, but they were able to spec out a truck that Mike was satisfied with. Back in Long Island, Mike told Lauren it was time for her to run down to South Carolina and pick up
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her new work vehicle. He warned her, though, that it wasn’t a Ford, but that it should work out okay. When she got to the Chesnee lot, she asked them to show her the truck she was supposed to drive back to Long Island. “They drove a truck out for me,” she said, “but I didn’t notice it at first. It was the wrong make, the wrong color… Then I realized what Mike and Robb at AWS had done—they’d secretly put this beautiful grey Ford F-550 with a Jerr-Dan MPL-NG self-loader on it together for me, with all the bells and whistles, and surprised me with it at the last minute!” Right now, Advanced Asset Recovery is running a JerrDan fleet. If Lauren’s reaction to her new Jerr-Dan is any clue, Mike will probably continue to purchase them as he needs to enlarge or renew his fleet. Lauren says that she is in love with hers. “It has not let me down, even though I’ve put more than 23,000 miles on it from November to June. The wheel lift is very fast and since the body is narrower, I can get into tough spots easier.” Lauren admits that there are very, very few other women in the repo field, at least where she works. And she may be the only one with a wheelchair. But none of that affects the fact that she will get her 100 cars this month. And next month. And the next.. For more information, visit www.jerrdan.com.
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INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
TowMate® Unveils the TM36M18 Wireless Light Bar Pioneering Roadside Safety with Milwaukee M18 Battery Integration
ROGERS, AR – TowMate®, a trailblazer in LED lighting solutions for automotive safety, proudly announces the launch of its groundbreaking product: the TM36M18 Wireless Light Bar. This cutting-edge product integrates with the Milwaukee M18 battery system, showcasing TowMate’s unwavering commitment to innovation and functionality. The TM36M18 stands out in the world of wireless tow light solutions, providing users with a seamless blend of trusted TowMate performance alongside the convenience of Milwaukee’s widely adopted M18 battery system. This strategic integration allows users to forgo the need for specialized batteries, tapping into the power of a battery many already possess. Product Highlights:
• • • •
Milwaukee M18 Battery Compatibility: A built-in adapter in the handle ensures a flawless connection with the M18 removable battery system. Versatile Lighting: The 36” wireless bar provides stop, tail, and turn signal salong with side marker lights on each end and three central DOT lights. Extended Usage: The power of the Milwaukee M18 battery ensures prolonged usage times, keeping users operational for longer periods. User-Centric Design: The TM36M18, while advanced, remains user-friendly. It comes with an intuitive transmitter and simple to use bungee straps for mounting the bar.
Chris Anderson, Vice President of TowMate, commented on the launch, “With the TM36M18, we’ve taken a significant 10
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7
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leap forward in redefining wireless tow lights. By integrating with a battery system that’s already popular and trusted, we’re enhancing user convenience and addressing a long-standing need in the market.” This innovative light bar is a testament to TowMate’s dedication to continuous product development and commitment to offering solutions that resonate with users’ evolving needs. The TM36M18 is now available for purchase through TowMate’s extensive network of dealers and distributors. For more details on the TM36M18 and to find a dealer near you, visit www.towmate.com/dealers
INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
CW Mill Equipment Co., Inc.
CW Mill Equipment Co., Inc. is a diversified manufacturing, sales, and service company that has been celebrating 50 years during 2023. Each product that CW has developed, manufactured, and offered for 50 years has been in large part customer-driven and is the basis for all that CW Mill Equipment does. That approach is backed with experienced staff, advanced manufacturing equipment, and will continue to provide products for years to come. CW Mill, located in Sabetha, Kansas, was incorporated in October of 1973 by founder Clyde Wenger. CW Mill’s products include large HogZilla® brand industrial grinding machines, high performance hammer mill cutting and grinding tools for rigid and swing hammer style grinding machines, and automotive installation kits for crankshaft-driven aftermarket accessories. CW Mill’s automotive installation kit division serves many industries including the commercial, municipal, agricultural, and military/security utility vehicle industries through providing up-fitting components related to special use applications that require adaptation of the customer’s crankshaft driven accessories such as hydraulic pumps, cooling compressors, power generators, and power alternators. Special uses within these industries include refrigerated food transport vehicles, mechanical repair service vehicles, electrical and communication linesman utility vehicles, electrical and communication wire spool handling vehicles, agricultural feed handling vehicles, armored vehicles, automotive transport vehicles, and road maintenance vehicles. 12
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7
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The grinding machine and parts division also serves many industries including the commercial, municipal, agricultural, and industrial material processing industries through providing whole machines and sub-components to process most organic and some non-organic materials. Special uses within these industries include animal food processing, disaster recovery, waste volume reduction, recycled material processing, forestry product grinding, forestry derived fuel production, land clearing, utility right of way maintenance, organic composting, scrap tire grinding, and tire derived fuel production.
You can learn more about CW Mill and our family of products by using the following links: www.cwkits.com for automotive crankshaft-driven accessory mounting kits. www.hogzilla.com for industrial tub & horizontal end feed style grinding machines. www.armorhog.com for extreme-duty parts for rigid hammer style grinding machines. www.dynahog.com for heavy-duty parts for swing hammer style grinding machines. CW Mill Equipment Co., Inc. 14 Commerce Drive, Sabetha, KS 66534 800-743-3491 (Within the US) | 785-284-3454 (Outside the US) Fax: 785-284-3601 or 785-284-2010
INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
Zips Featured Products
Zip’s Lift Assist Dolly Mount You often work alone. That doesn’t mean you can’t get a little help with your light-duty wrecker operation. Introducing the all-new Zip’s Lift Assist Dolly Mount, now available at Zips.com. Bolted to each side of the deck, this articulating arm uses a combination of shocks and springs to lower tow dollies to a comfortable working height. The storage mount works with 4.80 and 5.70 wheel sizes on both In The Ditch and Collins tow dollies. Save your back. Let this new unloader do the heavy lifting. Order Item #ZP-DM-SL at Zips.com today.
enough to fit in the cab of your wrecker and provides nearly 35 square feet of coverage when opened. The absorbent material can soak up to eight gallons of fluid, and the outer 4 ml plastic barrier prevents any contaminants from leaching through the bottom. Shop Zips.com. Item # UT-0275.
RimSling Synthetic Winch Lines
Ken-Tool Dual Wheel Separator Rust is steel’s worst enemy, especially when it comes to dual steel wheels on a truck, bus, or trailer. If you come across a set of duals that has seized together, Ken-Tool has the separator tool to get them apart. Heat-treated for strength and durability, this innovative one-piece pusher is ball bearing-driven for near-zero turning resistance. This powerful tool works with any impact wrench and features a beefy 1-1/8” diameter x 11 threads. Each kit includes two pullers and a hard-sided case for storage and handling. Components are corrosion-resistant and laser-etched for easy identification. Order Item # KT-34549 at Zips.com.
UltraTech Ultra-Spill Diaper Vehicle leaks at accident scenes can’t be ignored in your line of work. Make sure you have a spill response plan in place to mitigate any further environmental impact. The Ultra-Spill Diaper from Ultratech is a great place to start. Folded down to roughly 12” x 18”, this three-layer blanket is compact 14
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RimSling has recently expanded its product offering to include synthetic winch line for light-duty wreckers and car carriers. Strength-tested and field-proven, this black, braided rope is made from 12 strands of high-strength HMPE fibers, making it just as strong as steel cable. Like all RimSling products, this new winch line is lightweight, safer to use and easier to handle. Offering excellent abrasion resistance, its coated fibers won’t scratch or fray, and its low-stretch properties won’t cause a loss in towing power. This new rope is available in three sizes and lengths to 150’. Upgrade today at Zips.com. Item # RIMSLING-WINCHLINE.
WWORLD
1-800-323-TECH
www.accesstoolsusa.com
WORLD’S BEST SELLING CAR OPENING TOOLS THE ORIGINAL AIR JACK AIR WEDGE • Made of Ballistic Nylon for Durability • Wo n ’t D a m a g e t h e Ve h i c l e • P e r f e c t S i z e f o r M o s t Ve h i c l e s • Inflates Easily and Quickly with XL Pump • S l i d e s E a s i l y o v e r We a t h e r S t r i p p i n g • Internal Stiffener Aids Insertion Ultimate Long Reach Kit
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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.
The top seller long reach kit that will open most cars with SPEED AND ACCURACY.
Item #: ULRK
INCLUDES: Four of the most popular long reach tools| Button Master|Mega Master |Small and Large Jack Tool|Button Master | Glassman Tool | Mini Starter Air Jack| Super Air Jack | Smart Light |Wonder Shield | Quick Car Opening Manual & DVD | Heavy Duty Long padded Soft Case with pockets
Air Jacks MINI STARTER AIR JACK
AIR JACK
Item #: MAW
SUPER AIR JACK
Item #: AW
TWIN AIR JACK
Item #: OHJS4
Button Master Item #: TAW
UNLOCK CARS WITH VERTICAL BUTTONS. This tool lets you pull up virtualy any verticle with button. Unlock cars quickly and easily. Your customers will be amazed!
Item #: RCBM
Item #: SAW
Easy Twist Off Socket Set
Emergency Response Kit Our very popular tool set that includes virtually all of the tools and accessories needed for a long reach lockout in a compact size and design.
INCLUDES: Quick Max Long Reach | Air Jack air wedge | One Hand Jack | Button Strip Tool | Quick Car Opening Manual & DVD | Heavy Duty Case
Wheel lugs Locks are no match for this easy to use locking wheel lugs removal set. Item #: ERK
1-800-222-6047 www.zips.com
FIVE SIZES TO FIT VIRTUALLY ANY WHEEL LOCK.
Item #: EO
1-800-323-8324 www.accesstoolsusa.com
INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
Terry L. Biddle
12-23-1952 – 08-01-2023 Terry Lee Biddle, 70, unexpectedly passed away August 1, 2023, in Tampa, FL, while vacationing with wife Linda. Born the oldest of three children on December 23, 1952, to Marvel and Leland Biddle in Stanley, WI; he grew up in the neighboring small town of Thorp, and later graduated from Thorp High School in 1971. Marrying Minnette Jepsen in 1972; they have one daughter, LaShawn, and were later divorced. On March 12, 1988, he married Linda (Brown) Ahnefeldt, who brought one son to the marriage, John, together they have one son, Lee. Hometown pride and an unwavering work ethic were sources of pride for Terry and among his core values that drove all his pursuits. He often reminisced about the many jobs he had starting at a young age including working at Soderberg’s Farm, Haas & Sons, Midland Gas Station, Wifler Chevrolet, and then for the Thorp Police and Clark County Sheriff’s Depts. In 1975, he moved to Eau Claire, WI, and began his 20-year career with the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Dept holding many positions including jailer, patrolman, pilot, Duty Officer, SWAT Commander and Detective Sgt; retiring from law enforcement in 1995. While with the Sheriff’s Dept, he also formed the companies Photo Card Specialists, Inc. and Awards & More, Co. currently celebrating 37 years in business. For 36 years, Terry and Linda traveled nationwide to Tow Shows developing many connections in the towing industries and gaining close friends. He loved photographing trucks and visiting with the owners, drivers, and families. A flying, crime-fighting, Midwesterner through and through, Terry has left a lasting impression by treating every person as a friend whether he had just met them or had been life-long buddies. He will be truly missed. Terry’s passion and service for the towing industry will be carried on in the continued work of Photocard Specialties, Inc. and their efforts to help promote the companies of the towing community.
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The Most Advanced Solution For Vehicle
Recovery, Handling & Towing
Many of the applications Tow Track can tackle: One Man Team Operation Lowest Clearance Available Manufacturer Recommended by TESLA, GM, Mercedes, Porsche, Lamborghini, and McClaren Increased Safety Loads on the Rollback with the Recovered Vehicle 3x Billing $ over Traditional Rates Industry Standard Briggs Vanguard Power Available in Gas, Diesel, and Propane! Available in Your Fleet Color Scheme
bot Tow Track is a ro with caterpillars dio controlled by a ra e. command modul n Latest generatio for model available y! US delivery toda
770-677-5766
TrackedMachines.us | sales@trackedmachines.us
INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
Warrior Winches
T
he best of Europe is now available in the USA! Warrior Winches, Europe’s leading winch brand is now firmly established in the North American market. Starting as a family business over 20 years ago, to becoming an internationally recognized brand, Warrior Winches has always upheld its values of honesty, understanding, and commitment to long-term partnerships. Owned by the US corporation BPE Solutions North America, the best in UK design and engineering is now accessible throughout the USA and Canada, offering a diverse
range of Hydraulic and Electric Winches, all rigorously tested and certified to meet industry standards. Warrior Winches are readily stocked and distributed in the USA, ensuring prompt delivery within 2-7 days. Their dedication to customers goes beyond the sale, with an extensive network of service and warranty centers staffed by knowledgeable experts ready to assist you. Group CEO Jeff Bimson says, ‘We believe we have the products, quality and performance to support any application. The Towing industry in North America continues to suffer with the lack of product availability and after-sales service, we believe we are the answer to these problems. We remain focused on the user to ensure they have everything they need to get the job done.’ For more information on the market-leading brand visit: www.warriorwinches.com You can also check out their products up close at the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore, Booth 2205, where staff will be available to showcase the product and answer questions.”
A BUSINESS POWERED BY FAMILY VALUES
DRIVEN BY TRUST, RESPECT, HONESTY AND UNDERSTANDING. At Warrior Winches, we’re committed to having a full range of hydraulic and electric winches in stock. We guarantee high quality products, timely 2-7 day delivery, full parts support and unbeatable aftersales service. You can trust Warrior Winches to help get the job done.
www.WarriorWinches.com 18
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7
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Trusted by Professionals, Built for Everyone!
THE AMERICAN TOWING & RECOVERY INSTITUTE (910) 747-9000 | Fax (910) 486-8930 | Email: register@amtowri.org www.amtowri.org | To Register Online: https://bit.ly/ATRI2023
INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY
Tracked Machines North America, Inc. Announces the Release of the CarMover XL, the Most Technologically Advanced Automotive Equipment for Automotive Industry for Automotive Dealerships, Repair Facilities, Collision Centers, Parking Companies, Etc. Tracked Machines North America, Inc., is proud to announce the North American Release of the CarMoverXL into the North American Automotive Industry. The CarMover has been named the “The most Technological Advancement in made in the Automotive Industry!” No other equipment available has the capability to do this in this manner with ease.
CarMoverXL Patent Pending Technology that has patent pending moveable arms that grips the vehicle by all 4 tires, and lifts the vehicle a few inches off the ground. This technology allows the machine to adjust for the various tire sizes that will not damage any of the traction control or braking systems on a vehicle. This machine is the first machine with the ability to handle the weight of the Electric Vehicles that has plagued the automotive industry. CarMoverXL Patent Pending Technology that has patent pending moveable arms that grips the vehicle by all 4 tires, and lifts the vehicle a few inches off the ground. This technology allows the machine to adjust for the various tire sizes that will not damage any of the traction control or braking systems on a vehicle. This machine is the first machine with the ability to handle the weight of the Electric Vehicles that has plagued the automotive industry. The CarMoverXL above is an Electric, self-propelled automotive machine, that is carrying a disabled vehicle into an 20
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Automotive Repair Technicians work bay. This machine allows the operator to move vehicles on flat, hard surfaces without the need to enter the vehicle, or the need of keys or touching the vehicle. Providing more productivity and reducing the time spent on vehicle movement. The CarMoverXL above is an Electric, self-propelled automotive machine, that is carrying a disabled vehicle into an Automotive Repair Technicians work bay. This machine allows the operator to move vehicles on flat, hard surfaces without the need to enter the vehicle, or the need of keys or touching the vehicle. Providing more productivity and reducing the time spent on vehicle movement. The CarMoverXL, is operated by lithium-batteries and the machine maneuvers under a vehicle and picks a vehicle up by all four-wheels and then moves and transports the vehicle from one area to another. Outside to Inside a mechanic’s work area or from one parking spot to another. This equipment is designed to be used by automobile dealers
and repair service centers and body shops that have disabled or wrecked vehicles that need to be moved. The CarMoverXL has the ability to pick-up the heavy weighted EV’s and able to stretch-out to handle the long length of the most vehicles. The Tracked Machines offers the CarMoverXL to Automotive Industry that helps move disable vehicles without having to touch the vehicle or the need of entry and keys. The CarMoverXL® is new cutting-edge technology that brings a simple solution to complex problems related to fragile vehicle components and excessive vehicle weight. This machine solves the international problems associated with towing and transporting European Vehicles and Electric Vehicles (EV’s). EV’s do not roll because they have no ability to shift into neutral and most often do not have winch-cable connection points that allow it to be pulled onto a flatbed. European vehicle undercarriages are made of soft-aluminum or magnesium alloy metals that easily bend the vehicle frame and EV’s possess lithium batteries that a wheel-lift wrecker cannot be used due to the damage they cause vehicle damages and EV thermal runaway fires have become such a major issue with the Automobile Industry.
The CarMoverXL® is the first electric machine designed to pick up vehicles by all four wheels. It is adaptable to meet all different vehicle sizes that are disabled on flat-paved surfaces. The machine is operated by lithium batteries and very userfriendly. This equipment is designed to pick up heavy electric vehicles or long wheel-base vehicles located on hard, flat surfaces like parking lots, inside repair facilities, warehouses, and body shops with cement or resin floors. The machine can maneuver vehicles in and out of tight areas or workspaces. Because it is electric, it does not emit exhaust or fumes, so it can conveniently be used indoors in body shops and warehouses. Equally impressive, both the TowTrack® and the CarMover XL® can transport disabled vehicles up to 2.5 tons/2,500 kilograms without the need for keys or vehicle entry. Tracked Machines North America, Inc. in Atlanta Georgia is the North America Distributor of the TowTrack, TowTrackXL, CarMoverXL and the Erclues Tracked Forklift. These machines are that is manufactured in Verona Italy. The TowTrack and CarMoverXL will be showcased at the 2023 SEMA Automotive Show in Las Vegas from October 31 to November 3, 2023. The TowTrack and CarMoverXL Machines are the “Most Technologically Advanced Automotive Equipment in the World!” and will change the Automotive Industry by solving the movement issues that plague the EV movement issues experienced by dealerships and repair facilities.
Contact: Tracked Machines North America, Inc. www.trackedmachines.us | (770) 677-5766
One stop app for ALL RESPONDERS for Electric and Hybrid Passenger Vehicles. Towing Fire Rescue Special Response Team Recyclers Body Shop Storage Facility EMS Police Pay Parking Auto Glass Mechanics Semi – Heavy Duty Trucks & Bus Repair Contact: 910-747-9000 www.ev-clever.com contact@ev-clever.com www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
21
Women OF TOWING BY
MICHELLE
SUKOW
///
TOWERS JUST DO
H
ave you noticed that TOWERS JUST DO? They don’t find excuses. They get a call to move something no one else can do and it doesn’t matter. They just do it. Haven’t done it yet? Doesn’t matter. They just figure it out. It’s extremely difficult. Doesn’t matter. They just get it done. Someone else tried and 22
made it worse. Doesn’t matter. They just figure out a better way. Towers just do.
TGIF??? Right…. Anyone else dread the weekends? I mean, I enjoy not having to get out of my PJs and go into work right away in the morning. Who doesn’t?
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
But let’s be real here, TGIF doesn’t mean the same to us in the towing industry as it does to just about everyone else. Am I right? While everyone else is making plans or not worrying about a single thing except what they plan to do, we are worrying about who is on call, who is answering phones, what is happening on the roads, and
whether there is cell phone coverage where we will be. If a recovery comes in, it’s all hands on deck whether you are on call or not. Don’t
get me wrong, there are times when I just don’t want to do something, and it comes in very handy to have the “I’m working” excuse. You, too?
I know, right! I always wonder if the person on the other end of the phone knows I’m on the toilet or in the shower when they call……
www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
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Women OF TOWING BY
MICHELLE
SUKOW
///
THE BEST LAID PLANS… Mhmmm… How many times have you been ready to leave, and the phone rings and everything changes? You can already feel the disappointment in your family or friends before you even look at them. While it teaches great adaptive skills, it still can break your heart and disappoint people. How about if someone calls in sick? Even with the best employees; it will happen. Someone must do it, right? And, it almost always falls on you to do it! Even if that isn’t exactly true, it sure feels like it. It doesn’t matter if you had plans or even if you are sick. You always step up and do it. Towers just do.
BLESSING OR A CURSE? You tell me… Don’t roll your eyes. I can’t be the only one. It is just so second nature to answer that phone that it doesn’t matter what is happening at that moment. Towers just do…
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Do you remember the days of no cell phones? That was when call forwarding and an off-premise extension were your best friends. I remember family events when you would have to drive separately to switch the phones to a different landline. One would leave ahead
to get there and take any calls while another one would leave early to disconnect the forwarding so the other could leave. Then came cell phones…… wow! Can you say FREEDOM??? Until it wasn’t. You weren’t stuck to a landline anymore but boy anyone at any time could reach you. Anyone else wish we could go back before cell phones? Technology is a blessing and a curse. Today, it feels like you can’t ever unplug–the curse. However, being able to travel and attend events while still taking care of business–the blessing! We can’t be fully present and are usually distracted by phone calls. And those phone calls only come at the most inopportune times.
two. It matters this time, but Towers still do…
GIVE THEM SOME LOVE & RESPECT I have multiple ways to break all this down and give you some great mentorship but that wasn’t what this article was about. These
Expert leverage.
Doesn’t matter though. Towers just do….
Use SafeAll’s new rollover stick to upright your next overturned casualty. This adjustable pivot pole gives you the correct angle to get the vehicle back on all fours safely and efficiently.
HIGHWAY HEROES…..
• Eliminate standing up on top of the vehicle physically holding the rigging in place • Prevent the tool from becoming a projectile as seen with wooden 4x4s or PVC pipe
REF #: 04-23-24
What makes towers do what they do? Are they born this way or trained this way? Maybe a little of both? Towers are a special kind of person. Wouldn’t you agree? They are strong, brave, street smart and maybe just a bit crazy too. You either love towing, or you hate it. There is no in between. These heroes don’t wear capes; they wear reflective uniforms. They will get out of a warm bed and leave their families to take care of a stranded motorist in the coldest of weather, in the middle of the night. They will climb in ditches with vehicles screaming past over 70 miles an hour to rescue a driver. They will miss family time to save another family from being stuck on the side of the road that broke down. They have been known to miss a meal or two and even a family function or
highway heroes deserve the respect and admiration of the jobs they do every single day. It is one of the most dangerous jobs out there. They are sacrificing on many different levels and yet they get up every day and just do.
SafeAllProducts.com www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
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INSIGHTFUL TALK BY
DAN
MESSINA
///
No Insurance
L
month, I wrote about gas prices and how they affect everyone’s business, and I told you some things you might do to save money. I hate to be the barer of bad news, but I am going to tell you about how difficult it could be to get insurance in the future. My wife and I are in the process of moving. We called our insurance agent to have him get an insurance estimate on our new house. He explained how hard it is now to get insurance, because there are fewer and fewer companies. He is an independent agent who takes our policy request and gives it to ten different companies to get the best price. Because insurance companies are paying more claims with larger amounts, lots of the companies are merging with bigger companies or cutting back on what they are insuring. He told me that he would usually have 10 companies supplying a quote, but now it’s down to 3
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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
companies. He said car and truck insurance will be even harder in the future. You know how hard it is to get insurance on your trucks now and the future will be worse. I was talking to a large company, and he told me that 4 other companies got together, and each threw a million in the pot to help cover each other if only one got hit with a major claim. Most companies are just too small to think about doing something like that. As the price of insurance goes up there are ways to cut your costs. Here are a few ideas to think about:
1. Reducing your coverage to lower your premium.
2. If your trucks are older, you may want to drop collision and comprehensive coverage and carry liability only.
3. If you have a truck that
4.
5. 6.
7. 8. 9.
you don’t use often, you may want to reduce coverage during slow times. If you are leasing trucks, see if the lender has policies that would allow you to lower your payments. If the trucks are old, just get rid of them and save money. If you have money in your savings, you can lower the coverage and you pay for damages from your savings. If you have a good driving record, you may not need extensive coverage. You may have insurance that offers you a rental replacement. Consult with an insurance professional to see if you need all the insurance that you are currently paying for.
My wife has a health issue she will have forever. She was paying vary high health insurance premiums along with treatments that also cost a fortune. She needed a replacement for her insurance until her Medicare kicked in. She found a company out of California called Medashare where the patients
would self-insure themselves. Hundreds of participants would throw money into a pot, and if anyone had a major problem the insurance would pay for it. She saved close to $500 a month in premium payments, and she never had to fight with them to pay a claim or worry about getting canceled.
INGENUITY
Most companies will not turn in a claim if it’s lower than a certain amount because they know their insurance will go up the next year, or even worse they could be dropped. I had a friend of mine that owned a large tow company and for years she never had any problems. Then time caught up with her, and one of her drivers was in an accident. It was bad, and she lost her insurance. The company she used for years dropped her, and she could not find anyone that would sell her insurance. She almost lost her business and the stress caused health issues. She finally got insurance, but you know she paid dearly for it.
AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP custombuiltmfg.com www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 TOW PROFESSIONAL
27
INSIGHTFUL TALK BY
DAN
MESSINA
///
This got me to thinking, why don’t I start an insurance company that would provide the following:
1. Low monthly premiums 2. Never worry about being canceled because you turned in a claim.
3. No long-drawn-out procedures when you do submit a claim.
4. Rebates if you go for a year without any claims.
5. No strict procedures to see if you qualify.
6. Up to 10% off what you are paying today when you register.
Imagine running your company, knowing that you will always be insured even when times are slow. I am working with some industry experts to see what I must do to start an insurance company. I must see if there are certain financial requirements before I bring in a customer. I must
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The change in our business finances was unbelievable and what was more amazing was the passion that I had lost for the business had returned. It was fun again to go to work because we were seeing the fruit of all our hard labor. If you haven’t been to the class, just go it will be some of the best money you have spent for your business. — Joe’s Towing & Recovery
recoverybillingseminar.com | 508-763-5474 | info@recoverybillingunlimited.com 28
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
Visit Us on Facebook
be able to cross state lines when adding tow companies. When I open the doors, tow companies are all I will insure. I have associations that will help me find tow companies that need insured, and I have some other means for reaching out to tow companies to get them on board. I would like to have this going by the 1st quarter if possible. I will be reaching out to you with a survey to complete. I would like to know some of the following information:
4. Approximately how much do you pay today?
5. How many claims did you turn in last year?
6. Did you have any claims
over one million dollars?
7. How often do you pay your premiums?
If you think this is a good idea and it will help the industry, let me know. If you would like to be a part of helping me set this up let me know. I can be reached at 469-774-0340, or email me at dan@towtrax.com .
1. How many trucks do you have?
2. Do you have any heavyduty trucks?
3. Do you have a storage yard?
Ya’ll be safe out there!
Check out Dan’s book at
SuccessandWinning.com
www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 TOW PROFESSIONAL
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FUEL 4 THOUGHT BY
D.J.
HARRINGTON
CSP
///
Friends in the Towing Industry
L
ast month, I received a call to help a dear family in the recycling business that needed some big-time help and they needed it fast. They were desperate to remove a Jeep from one of the areas that was in the pathway of the worst damage to hit from a recent hurricane in South Florida. It was late in the afternoon when I received their anxious text message, “Is there ANY WAY you know someone in towing in South Florida that can move Jeff and Janice’s Jeep?” The text was from Roger Schroder. Roger co-founded Car-part.com along with his brother Jeff. Car-part.com and the Schroders family are two of the best things that have happened to this old man. I’ve come to know the Schroder family as a kind and generous group of people. Many years ago, when my daughter was getting married at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, I was just shy of raising enough money to cover the deposit. The Schroder family saved the day for us and sent an early wedding gift which covered what I couldn’t at the time.
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When Roger texted, he told me that they had been notified by the marina that the hurricane in South Florida mostly likely would take their Jeep for a ride with no-one in it. All tows being done were “Emergency only” tows. Unless it was life or death to get it moved, that Jeep was as good as gone. Not a great response in a time of crisis, huh? So, I texted back, “I’m on it!” and got to work making it happen. My first call was to my dear friend, Todd Stepp, of Stepp’s Towing on his private cell number. When I told him the story, Todd immediately sent information to Mike McArthur, his Director of Towing Operations. Mike has been with Stepps 24 years. Within minutes Mike called me, “DJ, we are 2 and a half hours from where the Jeep is located. But, if we can’t find a fellow tower within the next hour, we will send a truck and store the Jeep here in Pinellas County until the hurricane passes.” Upon hearing this, we both got to work. Surely someone who was closer could help.
This is important to understand. The first call, near the Jeep’s location, the tower I spoke to said, “First, we are only doing emergency tows, police directed, plus we don’t store any vehicles at our facility.” The next guy said that he stored vehicles, but his truck was out of service. Both calls couldn’t help me. Then, I called a big-time tower that all of us know and the dispatch service informed me that the owner was not there, “but was smart by hunkering down for the hurricane.” I must admit that her additional answer made my mouth drop when she said, “they should have thought about moving the Jeep 3 days earlier. I guess your friends are not that smart. Sir, kiss that Jeep good bye,” and then hung up on me. So, after a few more calls, I spoke with Gay Rochester, President of INA Towing Network, you know the big group that tows for Amazon, Lowes, Home Depot, Red Cross, etc. Gay knows the Schroder family from back in 2017 when Car-part.com had to move 56 cars out of the flood zone during Hurricane Harvey in Houston, Texas. Gay’s company, INA, moved all the vehicles in less than 42 hours. Many towers, when pushed to the limit, can perform extraordinarily well during emergencies. So, Gay
took the information while I also kept dialing. I spoke at Jim Stepp’s memorial service back in April of 2017. Jim was Todd’s dad and started Stepp’s Towing back in 1960 from a gas station in Temple Terrace, Florida. Now Stepp’s has over 150 trucks. Many locations later, Jim’s memory lives on. I carry Jim’s coin of remembrance in my pocket and recently showed it to his grandson at the Florida Tow Show. Mike at Stepps told me to call Prompt Towing, located in Charlotte County, Florida and ask for Joey. All of us know Joey Saladino. A great guy! The man who answered my call was Edward Canfield. I told him, “I’m calling from Atlanta, Georgia. My name is DJ Harrington...” and stopped me mid-sentence, “The same guy that writes for the Tow Professional Magazine and does podcasts for the magazine and the one for Wes Wilburn?” Shocked at his response, I said, “Hell, yes, the same one!” I knew I liked Edward right off. I told him about the Jeep and the need to move it quickly, but he said, “Tell the Schroder’s that just this past Monday, we ordered a Chrysler 300 Bumper from Car-Part.pro, one of their divisions. This former police officer and Eagle Scout, had the Jeep back in his yard within 2 hours.
Henry’s Wrecker Service
Dr. Hook Towing
San Diego, CA
RoadOne
McDonald’s Towing and Rescue
Sandy’s Towing and Recovery
IST Solution, Inc.
Merl’s Towing Service
Falcon Towing
Texas Towing San Antonio, TX
Classic Towing Services Ltd.
Road Runner Wrecker Service
KOLO DBS LLC
Dugger’s Services
Abrams Towing
RBEX, Inc. dba Apple Towing
Vehicle Management Solutions
Falls Church, VA
Celebrating an exclusive group of towers who are hooked on TRAXERO’s Towing Management Software. Follow along as we highlight these industry leaders who have dispatched over 1,000,000 calls through our software.
TRAXERO.com/million
Moraine, OH
Wyoming, MI
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Winnipeg, MB
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North Hollywood, CA Gardena, CA
Toronto, ON
Prairieville, LA Toronto, ON
Mokena, IL
www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
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FUEL 4 THOUGHT BY
D.J.
HARRINGTON
CSP
///
Here is a picture of the Jeep, safe and sound the next day. Edward called to say that he had spoken to Janice, Jeff’s wife, and said that she was very nice lady who appreciated their great service. Edward knew Janice had to be a special person because they were bringing the Jeep back to their towing yard. When INA called him to tow the same Jeep, it was already on the truck. So, he told Janice that she must be some kind of a celebrity. Thank you goes to Edward and the whole team at Prompt Towing for their swift service. I certainly, don’t want to forget the President of Prompt Towing, Sharon Murray along with Mike and Todd Stepp. As you would expect, the following day I received a thank you from Roger, Jeff and Janice Schroder. Jeff said that he was glad that all of my towing friends got involved with moving a Jeep without the help of keys because it truly was stuck on a marina, destined for destruction from a monstrous hurricane. In my book, Edward Canfield deserves the Most Knowledgeable Tow Person of the Year award. Most importantly, having great friends is invaluable when you really need them. See you on the next podcast.
PODCAST
Our mission is to: • Evoke the public conscious to understand they are the most powerful source to define life and death on our Nation’s highways. • To educate and make them aware they need to make a life change so first responders can live theirs! • To unite all common industry first responders to train, educate and motivate the public we serve to just
OVER ONE – LOSE NONE! 34
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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
TRAIN THE TRAINER PROGRAM ESSENTIALS OF TOWING & RECOVERY Is your company / organization in need of consistent, standardized training, contact our team at staff@ersca.org to inquire about our Trainthe-Trainer program lead by Shane Coleman, National Director of Training
Schedule of Programs October 24-27 Sacramento, CA Learn the fundamentals and become an Independent Trainer teaching the Essentials of Light Duty Towing & Recovery program to company employees, Association sponsored classes, or for ERSCA sponsored classes.
October 25-26 Sacramento, CA Essentials of Light Duty Towing & Recovery with CTTA
October 28-29 Milford, OH TRAO - Essentials of LIght
Safety through Training & Advocacy
Duty Towing & Recovery
The Emergency Road Service Coalition of America (ERSCA) was formed in 2012, originally titled the United Coalition for Motor Club Safety (“The Coalition”), created by a group of tow company owners.
November 7-10 Sacramento, CA Essentials of Light Duty
www.ersca.org | training@ersca.org Office 916.617.2882 | Fax 916.414.3708
Towing & Recovery
March 15-17 Sacramento, CA Essentials of Heavy Duty Towing & Recovery Class at the California Tow Truck Associations facility and College Oak Towing
643 West Stadium Lane, Sacramento CA 95834 www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
35
TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS
The Most Trusted Towing Software, Period.
By Matt Wesley
W
elcome to Towbook! We’re a start-up company that has grown from being crafted in McDonald’s dining areas, elated at breaking 100 accounts, to leading the way in cutting-edge software and serving thousands of companies worldwide. Our collective vision has and always will be to do things to our own beat, listening to the community that we serve, being honest, humble, and doing everything we can to make the daily lives of towing, roadside, and transport heroes more efficient, less stressful, and safer. If you are already using our software – you are part of the family. We see you and value you as an important piece to the vast network we have the pleasure of serving. We want to encourage you and build with you as your business grows. If you have yet to try us, we’re going to give you an honest look at what we do and who we are. Dispatching. Managers and dispatchers can dispatch jobs from a web browser or mobile app to drivers who are then able to quickly act and provide service to the customer. The mobile apps assist the drivers in easily accessing 36
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
information, taking photos or video, capturing signatures and much more. When photos are taken, they are always geo-location and time stamped to help demonstrate proof of completed work. Recording expenses can also
be done on the mobile apps, giving an easy alternative to remembering where printed receipts are. Additional precautions can be taken by creating Vehicle Damage Forms if there is pre-existing damage to the vehicle prior to servicing it. The driver can create a report on scene, take photos of the vehicle, indicate anywhere there is damage, and have the customer sign off on the damage form. This will always be saved for future reference and can even be emailed or sent via text to the customer with their receipt. Mapping and GPS. You can get turn-by-turn directions to your destination from in the app with just a few taps! If you aren’t currently using a 3rd party GPS solution, Towbook is equipped with built-in GPS tracking which will automatically update the drivers’ location according to their app settings. Towbook is also integrated with leading GPS companies like: AT&T Fleet Complete, Azuga, Driver Locate, Samsara, US Fleet Tracking, Verizon Connect, and Webfleet Solutions; allowing you to send calls directly to the GPS unit in your truck. Drivers can use the GPS unit to navigate to the service location. Your Towbook app can use the GPS location from
your trucks and display that on the map in Towbook. We have recently integrated with Azuga, partnering as their exclusive towing software integration; Azuga has allowed us to offer our mutual clients with some amazing features!
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TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS Impound Management. Our impound management features allow you to manage your impounds from anywhere. You can impound a vehicle, have the storage calculate out for you and release when needed from the computer or mobile app! We’ve implemented an option to save you and your team time on the phone and reduce confusion in the release process; Vehicle Lookup creates a web portal for customers, police departments or private properties to search a plate number. This allows them to confirm if you have the vehicle and if so, the address of the lot and any pertinent information related to release procedures. An important time saver and often an option that helps keep drivers safe is our On Scene Call Creation option. This option circumvents the
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normal required fields needed for call creation, allowing whoever is creating the call to simply take a quick picture of the car and move forward. When managing non-consensual tows or unsafe situations, this allows for a much faster alternative for your driver to use. Accountability Features. If you want your team to inspect their trucks and other equipment before (or after) every shift, they can do that easily using the Towbook mobile apps and our Equipment Inspection tool. Each inspection report is time stamped, and managers will receive an email alert any time there is a failure. Completed inspections are also available to open/view on mobile apps, so if drivers need to present a completed pre-trip inspection to a law enforcement officer they can do so right from their phone! Our “User Check-In” feature allows drivers to check-in and out for work directly from their mobile application. This allows managers and dispatchers to know who is currently available to accept jobs.
We know that being able to see drivers’ routes is an important part of running an efficient and reliable business. Because of this, we offer Call Replay. This allows you to go back and review movement on a specific call or play back a time frame for a specific driver. Whether for coaching on better routes to take or holding drivers accountable, this gives you concise visuals for both! Confirming that you have been paid and physically have the funds can be a struggle sometimes. Whether it’s late payments or less than ideal payment plans or payments that get stuffed in the wrong drawer, we know it can be stressful. The Payment Verification Report helps give you clarity and visual cues on what you have confirmed is in hand or in your bank account. It allows you to review all payments applied to verify the validity, giving you an additional layer of confidence that your books are balanced.
The Towbook Promise We value creating what brings your business value, supporting you in ways that make you feel uniquely important and standing out in our field. We value openness and honesty. We know that this industry is built on our word being the bond and in times where we have let someone down, we do everything we can do to make it right. As we reflect on being one of the last remaining companies who take pride in their independent roots, there are a few acknowledgements we want to make. We created Towbook for the towing and roadside community, with all focus being on developing a software to best help an industry sorely in need of cutting edge, flexible software to make their businesses more efficient. This vision is and will always be a foundational one. We will never become more worried about our bottom line than what worries you. We will always work to implement
options that make you as a business owner as self-sufficient as possible. The journey of building any business from a dream to reality does not end with popularity or a specific number hit. It grows and matures as you see parts of it flourishes. We would not be who, or where, we are without the community of fiercely
independent towing and roadside companies that we have the honor of serving. We hold firm to hearing what is needed, acknowledging when we need to make things right, and working tirelessly to deliver an innovative product to everyone who tries it.
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www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
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TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS
Telematics has Failed Towing Companies By Tim Smith – Azuga Partnership Manager
A
s a dad of 4 kids, three of which are in college right now, I have had opportunity to experience more than my fair share of stupid decisions, crazy rationale and the parade of excuses that follow. I have had the chance to watch them grow, succeed at many things, and fail at just as many. Nick Saban, the head football coach for the 17-time National Champion Alabama Crimson Tide, has a saying that “you should never waste a failure”. Basically, his point is that you learn more from a failure than a win. I have always believed this and have preached it to my kids. When I sat down to start writing this article, I wanted 40
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to give an honest assessment of telematics in the towing industry and how that has led Azuga in the direction that we are going. Over the last decade, I have sat in hundreds of dispatch offices and met with more managers and towing owners than I can count. Here is where, telematics has failed in towing:
Scenario 1: Towing company gets on an online demo where they get wowed about all the capabilities that system offers. They spend an hour on the phone watching a salesperson
speed through the system with ease and show how this will give them excellent visibility into their fleet. The salesperson gives them every bit of information they think they will need. The customer signs up, several weeks later gets everything installed and goes into the system to start using it. By this time, the customer remembers maybe 10% of what they were told. They are so busy that they never really get the system set up fully or correctly and are unhappy with the results. They are probably using less than 10% of the system.
Scenario 2: A Towing company sings up with the latest and greatest telematics provider. It looks cheaper and easier to use than the last one. Tower gets everything installed and things seem to be moving along well. A few weeks later one of the units stops reporting, and after looking to be sure everything is still plugged in, they reach out to get some support. First, they try the main support line. It is an automated system to leave a message and they leave detailed information about the issue they are having. No one calls back. So, they send an email to support and their salesperson, and of course, they get
no response. Next, they try the salesperson who all of a sudden can’t answer the phone only to find out that the salesperson is no longer with the company. Now you are locked into a long contract with hardware that doesn’t work, and you can’t get anyone to call you back. I have been with a company who was guilty of scenario 1, and today, I hear about scenario 2 from people calling to switch to us at least 20 times a week. Since I started with Azuga we thought these were mistakes and failures that we could learn from, and we have been focused on them daily ever since. Every new customer gets a dedicated customer success
WHEN IT HAS TO START Towing operations that employ Jump-N-Carry jump starters know that no starting task is too daunting. They know from experience that every aspect of a Jump-N-Carry is designed to deliver extreme jump starting power, from the battery to the heavy-duty cables. Jump-N-Carry is all about power delivery.
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41
TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS
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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
expert whose whole purpose is to make you successful using the product. Once you get the units installed, you will get a phone call, and they will train you how to use the system, how to integrate it with Towbook if you are a Towbook user, and they will help you set up your trucks, drivers, and the users you will need. They set up a reminder and call you in 6-8 weeks. What we have learned is that most people have settled in but are normally only using a fraction of what they should be using. So, your customer success expert will set a call and do more in depth training, help you set up reports, the maintenance page, driver rewards programs and help with any specific questions. You will have the ability to message them whenever you need anything, and they will get right back to you. You can text your specific contact or you can email the team and get immediate feedback at towingsuccess@azuga.com We also know that towing is different from almost every other fleet customer that we deal with due to unique needs, especially with hours and how busy towing companies can get. So, at Azuga, we have trained a specific team in our support department about all things towing. They understand the towing industry, the Towbook integration and are equipped to help you. The best way to reach them is to send an email to towingsupport@azuga.com, and they will get right to you. With these changes we think we have closed some common problems and will keep trying to get better. We love the towing industry! We want to be a part of the solution. We can’t promise that there won’t ever be problems, but we can promise that we will answer the phone and work to help you solve it!
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www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
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TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS
What Sets TRAXERO’s Software Apart By Laura Dolan
E
TRAXERO is the leading provider of innovative software solutions for the towing industry. We understand how hectic running a towing business can be. That’s why we created a platform with software that is all encompassing, bringing the industry’s most essential towing solutions together on a user-friendly platform so our customers can achieve total Towing Revenue Optimization (TRO).
How TRO = Success TRO helps towers see their business in a different way. Instead of just managing call after call, our integrated software helps you focus on driving efficiency and effectiveness across your entire towing business so you can make better business decisions. 44
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With advanced digital features, our software empowers towing companies to optimize their operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and bring in more profits. Our digital dispatching software integrates with fleet tracking and credit card processing solutions. We also offer industry-leading impound yard solutions including auction, lien and mail products to help our customers expand their buyer audience and clear unwanted inventory more quickly and efficiently. Our software caters to dispatchers, managers, operators, accounting, and more, to keep up with the unpredictable, fast-paced nature of the towing industry. We built dedicated products with all the features towers need, no matter what type of towing or roadside
assistance they do so they can provide the best service to their customers. Our towing software helps you quickly and effectively manage your entire operation in a more organized and digital fashion. Say goodbye to gaps and inconsistencies in your reporting. Better reporting means better insights, which means more money coming in. Here’s how our solutions standout.
A Fully Integrated Suite Of Software Our software provides all the tools towers need to quickly and effectively manage their business on one robust, easy-to-use platform.
Dispatching No matter what kind of towing or roadside assistance you do, TRAXERO has a dispatching solution that is right for your towing needs while giving you the flexibility to expand as your business grows. Our hierarchy of solutions are designed to advance with you:
TraxeroGO: Everything you need to accept digital dispatches and run cash calls for your growing business — for free, forever! Dispatch Anywhere: Flexible, powerful, and built to run a variety of call types from motor club to commercial accounts and personal property impound. Diversify your business with impound yard management and powerful integrations. TOPS: Our most powerful solution with robust configurations, reports, and management controls. Especially for businesses doing more municipal, police, account work, and motor club jobs. “The reporting side of it was a huge selling point for us transitioning over to Dispatch Anywhere by TRAXERO. I can go in and I can see individual drivers, I can see trucks. I can make sure that we’re not having a problem with a driver... And that’s a huge key to the turnaround of what I do,” said Derek Cardwell, General Manager of Henry’s Towing.
Auction Management Our auction management software is the towing
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TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS accurate records. Auction Simplified by TRAXERO is designed to give you total control of your impound auctions, with a range of different auction styles that put your inventory in front of more buyers, making it convenient for any and all bidders to participate including: 1. Online Only Auction 2. Live Auction with Simulcast 3. Traditional Live Auction
industry’s very first integrated auction solution that fully connects with TRAXERO’s Towing Management
Software (TMS), making running an auction easier than ever to organize and to keep
Our auction software saves time and reduces errors from having to manually double enter data between systems. Instead, you can benefit by integrating to your existing TRAXERO TMS, leading to increased
Towing Insurance Program
N E W
Interline Risk Services’ towing package is a policy that is designed for professional towing operations that are involved in auto repair, body shop, salvage yards, auto transporting, gas sales and more.
Our program is backed by an A+
Eligibility • Single and multi-state operation • 1 to 100 trucks
Coverage
rated insurance company. We offer very broad driver guidelines, along with the most flexible coverages available in the market today.
• Auto Liability - $100,000 to $1,000,000 CSL with no deductible or radius restriction • Physical Damage comprehensive and collision deductible – $500-$2,500 • Auto Medical Payments – $1,000 to $5,000 • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (non-stacked) – Basic limits or as required by law • Personal Injury Protection – Basic limits or as required by law • General Liability – $100,000 to $4,000,000 CSL (General liability covers premises and operations - even operations away from the premises such as road side) • Hired and Non Owned Liability – Limits equal to General Liability • Garage Keeper’s Legal Liability – Maximum limit per location $500,000 CSL • On Hook/Cargo – Maximum limit per auto $300,000 with excess policies available a. Loading and unloading is included in our cargo form, and will cover the cargo while it is in the process of recovery until it is delivered or stored. b. Our cargo form is the broadest in the industry with coverage for equipment hauled as well as autos. Contents of vehicles are covered as well. c. NO DRIVE TRAIN EXCLUSION - we do not exclude drive train damage on our cargo form. d. Debris removal is included in our cargo form with a sub-limit of $2,500.
Other Available Coverage • Accidental Death and Dismemberment of $10,000 per life on the policy is included on all accounts offered
For more information:
877-578-1516 | info@interlinerisk.com 46
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
productivity and smoother operations. It also makes it possible to have more robust reporting, better visibility into your inventory, and saving time when reconciling transactions. If you’re currently not a TMS customer today, you can still run auctions, but to take the most advantage of our software, a TRAXERO TMS to auction integration is the way to go. TRAXERO’s fully integrated auction solution also has selling and buying features that make it easier to inspect and sell salvage and wholesale inventory. Statistically, towers who run their own private auctions consistently earn higher profit per car.
Lien And Mail Our lien and mail software, TowLien by TRAXERO, optimizes and streamlines the entire lien and/or title/ permit to sell process for any of the stored repaired vehicles that may be abandoned at the facility that towers need to gain title to. It is specifically designed for the types of facilities that have an impound yard, so it’s ideal for a towing/storage
repair facility that impounds and stores abandoned vehicles that need to go through the search process. Or if it’s not abandoned, certain states require proper reporting of private property impounds within so many
800.727.4488 PHOTOCARDSPEC.COM PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS WITH YOUR PHOTOS
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47
TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS hours to their law enforcement. TowLien can assist with that. When there are vehicles that are stored, certain states have requirements that they must notify the appropriate state agencies to be able to legally charge storage beyond so many hours or so many days. TowLien helps to accommodate that, to maintain that all companies remain within the compliance guidelines within their state. It walks them through the entire process from step A to Z, from when the vehicle is impounded all the way through to when they need to apply for the title, and it provides all the necessary forms that may be required by their state along with deadline reminders for each step in the process.
Fleet Tracking Our fleet tracking and camera solutions help towers know where their trucks are at all times, helping towers achieve better accuracy, more detailed reporting, and fewer idle times so you stop burning through fuel. BudgetGPS by TRAXERO will also help protect towing
companies from fraudulent claims, ensuring compliance, and keeping their drivers safe. Our fleet tracking software is designed to handle multiple locations and divisions. We provide strong onboarding and support services as well as allowing you as the tower to customize your GPS software as much as you want. It also easily integrates with Quickbooks, Sage, and our other platforms such as credit card processing, lien and mail, and auctions software. Towers can also take advantage of the reporting module by customizing and printing daily reports to ensure everything looks accurate and steady, maintaining the efficiency of the business.
Credit Card Processing Our convenient credit card processing system allows towers to eliminate multiple systems that resulted in double entries and errors in bookkeeping. Towers can now process credit card payments while on the road or in the office with fewer chargebacks, so you can get paid faster. With TowPay by TRAXERO, we automate the reconciliation process of your transactions and consolidate your payment operations. Now you can streamline your operations and never question when a tow ticket is paid. TowPay offers an all-inclusive flat rate with absolutely no monthly or hidden fees for both card-present and card-not-present transactions. You can also unlock efficiency and enable your drivers, dispatchers, and staff the ability to process reliable payments directly from your TMS and on the road. 48
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As far as hardware offerings go, we have two options for processing card-present transactions, one for mobile and one for desktop, ensuring complete integration across all of our other software platforms. “I wish we had it sooner. It’s very easy. You’re guaranteed pay before dropping off because the link goes straight to the driver,” said Wendy from Ken Weber Truck Service, Pewaukee, WI.
Come Experience The TRAXERO Difference Our fully-integrated towing software is what helps towers get a complete overview of every part of their business to increase efficiency and profits without leaving money on the table. Thus, achieving complete TRO. Our reliable support team responds quickly and is always here to help you get set up and answer any questions about how it all works. You never have to go it alone. To learn more about how you can start using TRAXERO’s tools to start improving yourtowing business, visit traxero.com or call us at 1-800-428-4715.
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TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS
Ranger’s New PatrolWorks with LPR Private Property Impounding – Reimagined Why Offer Integrated Permitting and Enforcement? -- Q & A
T
he confluence of cultural problems (e.g., tolerance of “misdemeanor” theft, drug use) societal dilemmas (e.g., influx of migrants, homelessness), legal trends (e.g., “entitlements”, litigiousness for victims), economic issues (e.g., inflation, interest rates), and technological advances (e.g., IoT, mobile apps) is causing many properties to rethink their current strategy for parking management. New webbased solutions integrating permitting and proactive enforcement are increasingly attractive as they deliver improved compliance with parking policies, and increased asset value. Some established PPI business models may be facing an expiration date. This article offers some perspectives on the answers to common questions that surface in discussions of private property parking management - both Pay to Park and MultiFamily lots - where the Q&A is different.
already implementing permitting - including lot attendants collecting cash, pay boxes/kiosks, and on-line payment products. All suffer from the same issue: how to “leave less money on the table”. Answer 1: Most current approaches lack effective enforcement and process controls. Many owners are adopting products that provide on-line permitting from the user’s mobile device by scanning a QR code. Some on-line, permitting-centric suppliers are trying to close the enforcement gap by providing lists or mobile apps for PPI providers to check whether a vehicle has a paid permit. This approach requires someone to walk a lot and find exceptions - essentially the equivalent of an Easter egg hunt. The best solutions use the vehicle license plate as the permit and automatically incorporate permit data into a mobile license plate recognition (LPR) system to identify vehicles in violation.
Pay to Park
Question 2: How to extract value from an employee or visitor lot when the business is closed? The most common approach is generally limited to hiring attendants who collect parking fees for special events. Answer 2: Again, the best solutions will provide on-line permitting accessible at the lot, (using the vehicle LP as the permit), incorporate pricing flexibility – including time-of-day - and automatically integrate data into a mobile LPR system for patrolling.
Question 1: The elephant in the room is: how to stop the fraud, theft, and cheating? The owners of these lots are
Question 3: Why choose Ranger? Is Ranger’s innovative solution – PatrolWorks with LPR (PW LPRTM) – the best option to deliver results? Answer 3: PW LPR integrates permitting with LPR enforcement in a single solution. Like other offerings, PW LPR Pay to Park uses signs that are posted at the lot with QR codes which customers scan with their mobile phone. Customers are then directed to a mobile-friendly web site where they enter their LP and purchase a permit for a selected duration. Pricing can be differentiated by duration, time of day, and for special events. Then the benefits of integration kick-in. The entered license plates are automatically entered into the advanced License Plate Recognition (LPR) system. An LPR-equipped 50
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spotter vehicle can efficiently and frequently patrol the lot to identify violators. The LP and geolocation on the vehicle in violation is automatically forwarded to tow trucks that are nearby and standing by to impound vehicles with expired or no permits. Lot owners using PW LPR realize higher revenues! For example, yearover-year revenue in one lot increased from $7,000 to $20,000 per month. The integrated PW LPR solution delivers more revenue by: Minimizing “cheating” – frequent patrolling means fewer customers that simply don’t pay. Increasing effective capacity relocation of vehicles with expired permits to free spaces for other paying customers. Sending notices of pending
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TOWING SOFTWARE & GPS
expiration to prompt additional renewal payments. Enabling premium pricing for periods of high demand: – Special events – Nights and weekends Eliminating labor at attended lots (and the “breakage” in cash collection), and the maintenance cost/downtime of kiosks.
The lot owner makes more money. The PPI provider earns processing fees for the permitting, generates more impounds, and is equipped to serve more lots. The payback on the LPR camera system is typically measured in months!
Multi-Family – Apartments, HOAs, Small Universities Question 1: Why even use permits? Some property managers remain unconvinced that there is value, and don’t even use permits. The benefits do not seem worth the cost/hassle.
Answer 1: The reasons may not seem compelling for all, but are increasing in importance: Preserving capacity for residents. Demand can exceed supply from vehicles that are not owned by leaseholders in the community. Abuse by residents could include excessive visitors and guests. And new complexes are being constructed with fewer parking spaces per unit. Aligning parking privileges with the lease. Economic conditions are resulting in more sharing of apartments. Many frequent “guests” may belong on 52
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the lease. Improving SECURITY is the most important benefit – providing greater peace of mind - for residents and owners. Tolerance for vehicles that don’t belong increases the risk to owners of NEGLIGENT SECURITY lawsuits – unlikely, but extremely expensive (average settlements are more than $1 million). Question 2: Why use the License Plate as the permit instead of stickers and hangtags? Answer 2: There are operational reasons, but again, SECURITY is paramount. Using the LP eliminates the cost and hassle of managing stickers through the moves/adds/changes of residents’ vehicles (buying/selling/renting) and minimizes fraud. Another operational benefit is that new technology enables residents to manage their own parking permissions themselves – “self-service” – that saves time for managers. Improved SECURITY. The leading solutions use advanced LPR technology to enable more frequent patrolling, and the license plate is the requisite foundation. Question 3: Why paid parking permits? Parking privileges may already be included in the lease. Answer 3: There are opportunities to increase the value of the property by managing parking permits separate from the lease, without adding complexity. Charging for guest permits is attractive for the financial upside, and to dampen demand. And it can be easy. All permit purchases can be completed by the resident (“self-service) from their mobile phone. Separating the lease (the “ticket”) from parking (the “baggage fee”) creates more pricing flexibility by vehicle - based on location (e.g., for carports, garages, lot proximity), number of leaseholder vehicles, and/or size (e.g., trailers, RVs)
Incremental revenue contributes to the financial challenges facing owners, particularly in an environment of high interest rates. Proceeds from parking permissions are typically used to reimburse lot maintenance costs (e.g., resurfacing, striping, lighting). Question 4: Why not just continue to focus on impounding (e.g., “tow off” requests a comfort zone) and rely on others to do permitting and manage the compliance struggles? Answer 4: Certainly an option. Others outside the industry will continue to meet the growing demand. But there are risks. One PPI company cites losing 20% of their impounding business. The permitting entity controls the selection of the enforcement provider. The PPI provider loses control of their own destiny.
PW LPR is the future of private property parking management. You can be at the vanguard – serving more customers and more lots, generating more impounds, and benefiting from new revenue sources. Call for more information (440) 498-1495 Or Visit https://info.rangersst.com/
THE UNDERLIFT THAT HANDLES LIKE A SEMI-TRAILER Question 5: Why choose PW LPR from Ranger? Answer 5: PatrolWorks is the only complete solution that puts you in the “driver’s seat” – designed to equip PPI providers to be the single-source, parking management partner for their customers, AND significantly increase profitability. The PatrolWorks with LPR (PW LPRTM) solution delivers benefits for both Property Owners and PPI professionals. Could exclusive deployment of the innovative PatrolWorks with LPR solution be an opportunity for you to profitably grow in your market with your customers?
• Attaches in minutes • No Permanent Connections • 32K Lift Capability • Safely Tows Up To 140K GCWR • Distributes Weight Properly • Scales When Others Can’t • Economical To Operate
Tru-Hitch Inc.
16 W. West Hill Road Barkhamsted, Ct. 06063
Toll Free 1-800-450-8659 www.truhitch.com
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LOCK OUT
TOOLS
T
esla Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y have proven difficult to access effectively during a Lockout, until now. Access Tools has developed a specialty long reach tool designed specifically for the effective opening of Telsa model vehicles. Access Tools products make your job easier and more professional when working as a Tow Truck Operator or Repossession Agent. Tesla models can be tricky, particularly with respect to their use of thin Laminated Glass on the front two windows of the vehicle, rather than the more traditionally used tempered glass. This laminated double-pane glass, when broken, shatters but remains held together by the nature of it being laminated. Taking extra precautions around this window glass is of the utmost importance so as to not run the risk of costly damages. As you will see, sandwiching the Telsa Tool between two Wonder Shields helps to protect the tool from contacting the window glass, preventing these damages. In a situation where the vehicle is without power, the electronic locks fitted on a Tesla will not function properly. On most Tesla models, there is a Manual Door Release Lever in front of the window switches on the door panel. Manual door releases are designed to be used only in situations when the vehicle has no power. This may also occur if the vehicles Key Card has been accidentally locked inside the vehicle. This release lever can be difficult to access with traditional Long Reach Tools due to the shape of the lever, the direction and angle that it needs to be manipulated, and the tightness of the frameless window through which the tool needs to pass. The following are the basic steps required to gain access to a Tesla Model S, Model 3, Model X, or Model Y in a situation where the vehicle is without power.
past the weather stripping. Then insert the second Wonder Shield, using the already-inserted Wonder Shields’ surface to help glide it into place. These two Wonder Shield’s will create a pocket through which you can slide the Tesla Tool into the vehicle, with minimal chance of damaging the window or weather stripping.
Step 1: Insert a set of Wonder Shield’s into the gap between the passenger side front door window glass and the door frame. Insert one Wonder Shield with a slight bend in the corner to help ease the tool
Step 2: Insert the Tesla Tool into the vehicle, using the Wonder Shields sandwiching the tool to protect the vehicle and as a guide for the tool. Once inside the vehicle, the positioning of the tool can be manipulated using the attached
54
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Pull Cord. The Manual Door Release Lever is in front of the window switches on the door panel. Guide the tool into this location and lower the tools hook-end into position over the lever.
Step 3: In a slow and controlled movement, pull back on the tool to manipulate the Manual Door Release Lever which will move in a upward and rearward trajectory, releasing the door and allowing it to open. This simple procedure will allow you to manually release the door on most Tesla models when the vehicles battery is dead. While the procedure is straightforward, it is important to use the proper tools and techniques when performing this opening to avoid damage to the vehicle. The Telsa Tool will be available soon from Access Tools and its network of Authorized Distributors. For more information, please visit AccessToolsUSA.com. www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | TOW PROFESSIONAL
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LOCK OUT
TOOLS
ZIP’S Makes the Job FAST AND EASY
L
ockouts are a quick and easy way to make some money. You should make the job as fast and easy as possible. With the following tools, you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever issues may arise, so you can quickly move on to the next job
You need to see to do a job properly. That’s where the Access Tool Access Smart Light comes in handy. With its three suction cups, you can easily stick it onto the windshield of your lockout and flip it on. While it’s stuck to the windshield, you can free up your hands to go about actually getting the vehicle unlocked. Plus, it has 5 different lighting modes, so you’ll be able to find a setting to light up the car. After the car’s lit up, all you need are the tools to actually open up the car.
The most basic of these tools is the Access Tools Heavy Duty Button Master Long Reach Tool. Once a gap between the door and the car has been created, you can easily slide this into the gap, wrap the cable around the button and pull up. Within seconds, you’ll have that car unlocked without any issue. Now, if the lock is a switch lock, simply use the Access Tools 52” Quick Max Long Reach Tool. With the same process, you can quickly hit the switch and unlock the door. 56
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
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LOCK OUT
TOOLS ZIP’S Continued:
Of course, no two jobs are the same, which is where the STECK BigEasy Extender and the STECK BigEasy Loop come in handy. The STECK BigEasy Extender does what its name implies: extends your reach tool to get the vehicle unlocked. It simply snaps right onto the reach tool and extends its length. Whether your goal is to grab the keys out of the ignition, reach emergency floor release handles, or get to opposite side door handles, the Extender gives you an extra 12” to work with.
On the other hand, the STECK BigEasy Loop, an accessory attachment for long-reach tools, can be used when you need a bigger loop than your Button Master Long Reach Tool offers. Not only can it reach around the button lock, but it can also slip around the door handle, giving you quick access. It can even wrap around roll-down window cranks in case nothing else works, and you need a quick way in. Using these tools lets you get into a car a lot quicker, and a lot easier. So, give them a chance to make your day a whole lot easier. Visit Zips.com for more information. 58
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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
800-288-0839 COLUMBUS | 800-288-0849 MARIETTA
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ADVERTISER INDEX COMPANY
PG
Access Tools........................................ 15
COMPANY
COMPANY
PG
PG
ESA........................................................... 7
Recovery Billing................................... 28
GM Consultants................................... 63
RP Consulting....................................... 38
FlowL Stop.............................................. Robert Young........................................ 62 NEX T D I G I TA Q U A R T E57R LY
Alliance Funding.................................. 42 American Towing Recovery
Light................................................. 24 RV Wheel.............................................. 63 Tow Professional isGoproud to announce Q4 Austin Hinds......................................... 59 HAAS Alert........................................... 11 SafeAll Products.................................. 25 our new Digital Interactive Quarterly! Institute (ATRI).................................... 19
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Austin Insurance ................................ 48
Hal Kresser........................................... 63
Steck Mfg.............................................. 43
AZUGA..................................................... 5
Hide-a-Lift............................................. 63
Survivor Fund Museum ad...........30-31
Bimson Power...................................... 20
Hino.......................................................BC
The Will-Burt Company...................... 43
Boxes4U................................................ 63
Holly’s Towing Dispatch..................... 43
SPILL Tow Toolz.CONTROL .............................................. 23
Clore....................................................... 41
INA Towing Network.......................... 34
Towbook............................................ 3, 37
Collins Dollies.....................................IBC
Interline Risk Services....................... 46
Towmate.................................................. 1
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Tow Professional Quarterly Digital Custom Built......................................... 27 Marking PenEdition Depot............................. 63
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Comes out 4 times a year CW Mill• Equipment ............................ 48 McMahon............................................. 61 Tru-Hitch............................................... 55 • Mobile and accessible for readers to use and for towers on the go. Dynamic................................................ 45 MCS Systems. .......... 49 63 • Editorial and Ads are interactive withMobile the useControl of Links and Videos to showWeiss moreIns.............................................. information and direct readers to your website. Eastern Wrecker Sales...................... 60 PhotoCard Specialists........................ 47 Worldwide Equipment........................ 13 • Emailed to our 11,000 registered owners Eckert & Associates........................... 63 Progressive Insurance......................... 9 Wrecker Rentals.................................. 60 • Promoted on Social Media: Facebook, Linked-In, as well as in our print publication. ERSCA..•.................................................. SST........................................... 51 Easily Promoted on your35Social Ranger Media platforms through sharing... • Cost effective Full Page and Half Page sizes.
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Q4
Quarterly
Quarter 4 • 2021 www.towprofessional.com
Repo Equipment
QUARTER 3
Insurance and Financing
QUARTER 4
Q4
Quarterly Hazmat, Spill Control, Lock-out Equipment, GPS and Telematics
Specs: Price: $ 2,000
All ads and editorial must have links to SPILL websites andCONTROL this includes videos. PLUS: HAZMAT: REINVENTING THE WHEEL DURING A PANDEMIC
Now your Editorial and Advertising interactive Be sure to ask about how to become a can part become of our Suppliers Directory and Feature Product Editorial. with links & videos combined with the convenience of mobility! SPILL DIAPER: TURNING YOUR LIABILITY INTO A PROFIT
FEATURED PRODUCTS | SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
Tow Professional Quarterly Tow ProfessionalDigital Quarterly Digital Edition Edition Featured • Comes out 4 timesSupplier a year Directory Q2 2021 TP Q2 FEATURED SUPPLIERS & DIRECTORY
TP Q2
FEATURED PRODUCTS
2021
60-65 Word Product Description WHEEL LIFTS & REPO EQUIPMENT Editorial and Ads are• interactive Videos to show more• information and Image Product or Service DYNAMIC “PYTHON” Company with Logothe use of Links and • Contact Email Link direct readers to your • website. Phone Number • Website Link Emailed to our 11,000 owners • registered Contact Email Link • Website Link Promoted on Social Media: Facebook, Linked-In, as well as in our print publication.
2 FEATURED • 25-30 Word Company FEATURED SUPPLIER’S DIRECTORY • Mobile and accessible for readers to use and for towers on the go. PRODUCTS PREMIUM SUPPLIERS Description Quarterly
Quarterly
•
Tow Professional Quarterly Digital Edition Featured Products •
ROTATORS, HEAVY EQUIPMENT, WHEEL LIFT & REPO EQUIPMENT
JERR-DAN
Headquartered in Hagerstown, Maryland, we proudly manufacture our vehicles in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania. Jerr-Dan believes there are few professions that can match the heart and soul of a tow owner/operator.
(800) 926-9666
info@jerrdan.com | www.jerrdan.com
• • • •
Custom Built
Dynamic Towing Equipment Manufacturing
Dynamic created the Original Self-Loading Wheel-Lift that has become the most sought after technology in the towing industry.
(757) 624-1360
anthonydynamic@mac.com | www.dynamicmfg.com
Austin Hinds Motors, Inc.
Custom Built Manufacturing was founded by Derek Dangelo, owner of Dangelo’s Auto Body and Repairs.. Custom Built opened with a focus on manufacturing the highest quality, custom heavy duty wreckers for the towing industry.
Let Austin Hinds Motors show you how easy it is to buy a quality new or used car in Arab . We believe fair prices, superior service, and treating customers right leads to satisfied repeat buyers.
(800) 540-5151
(256) 586-8161
info@custombuiltmfg.com | www.custombuiltmfg.com
www.austinhindsmotors.com
McMahon Truck Centers of Columbus
Rick’s Truck & Equipment
Is your full-service headquarters for commercial truck solutions. We offer an extensive inventory for commercial truck sales, leasing and rentals, as well as comprehensive parts, maintenance solutions, and financing options to ensure the best selection, repair and service experience. info@mcmahontrucks.com I www.mcmahontrucks.com
Rick’s Truck and Equipment offers a wide selection of competitively-priced vehicles as well as parts and service. Call us today and let our professional staff help you find what you’re looking for.
4-YEAR WARRANTY 5000LB FULLY EXTEND WHEEL LIFT 8000LB TOW RATING 82 INCHES OF REACH 25 DEGREES OF POWER AND NEG TILT
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.
Easily Promoted on your Social Media platforms through sharing... Cost effective Full Page and Half Page sizes. (800) 639-4537
www.ricksrollbacks.com
43 | Tow Professional | Q2 21 | www.towprofessional.com
OPTIONS
PLASTIC POLY FENDER WHICH ARE LIGHTER, YET STRONGER AND WILL NEVER RUST 8000LB RAMSEY WINCH STAINLESS STEEL PYLON
For more infomation, visit: www.dynamicmfg.com or anthonydynamic@mac.com.
38 | Tow Professional | Q2 21 | www.towprofessional.com
Call 205-223-4548 or email, Darian Weaver at darian@towprofessional.com Editorial Coverage QUARTER 1 64
Towing Software and Lighting
TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 7 | www.towprofessional.com
QUARTER 2
Rotators, Heavy Equipment, 5th Wheel Attachments, Wheel-Lifts and
Cost For Full Year WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM FULL PAGE
Specs: Price: $ 3,000
THE TRUCK IS JUST THE BEGINNING.
When you POWER ON your new Hino truck, our journey with you is just beginning. That’s because every MY24 Hino Trucks comes standard with an industry exclusive Allison 5-Year Transmission Warranty, 24/7 HinoWatch, and Hino Edge Connected Vehicle Solution. Why? Because taking care of you and your truck is what we call the ULTIMATE OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE.
WWW.HINO.COM