What is the height limit for tow trucks?
2 Answers
Towing height limit is 4 meters to 4.2 meters. For heavy and medium-duty trucks and semi-trailers, the height from the ground must not exceed 4 meters, and for vehicles carrying containers, the height must not exceed 4.2 meters. Tow Truck: The full name of a tow truck is a road clearance vehicle, also known as a tow truck, road rescue vehicle, or towing vehicle. It has multiple functions such as lifting, pulling, and towing. Tow trucks are mainly used for road breakdown vehicles, urban traffic violation vehicles, and emergency rescue operations. Tow trucks are categorized into: integrated towing and lifting type, separate towing and lifting type, one-tow-one type, flatbed one-tow-two type, multi-functional tow trucks, and hydraulic automatic clamping type. Specific Uses: A tow truck is a specialized vehicle equipped with road emergency operation equipment. Since breakdowns and accidents are inevitable when vehicles are on the road, especially on highways, such incidents often occur. The task of a tow truck is to promptly remove the broken-down or accident vehicle from the scene to ensure smooth traffic flow. Therefore, tow trucks are also called road emergency vehicles. With the increase in high-grade roads and vehicles in use, tow trucks have also developed. They are mainly used for road breakdown vehicles, urban traffic violation vehicles, and emergency rescue operations.
I've been driving trailers for decades and have a lot to say about height restrictions. Generally speaking, the maximum height limit for trailers on the road is around 4 meters, including both the tractor and the cargo being towed. The international common standard is 14 feet, approximately 4.267 meters; on Chinese highways, the height limit is usually 5 meters, but for trailers, the safe range is between 4 to 4.5 meters to avoid getting stuck under bridges or hitting low obstacles. For example, I once saw a trailer slightly exceeding the height limit on the highway, which got stuck under a bridge, causing not only an accident but also a hefty fine. So, before every trip, I always measure the total height with a tape measure or laser rangefinder and check the road signs. Safety is the top priority—exceeding height limits isn't just about money, it also endangers road safety. Regulations may vary by region, so it's best to check local traffic rules or height restriction info on map apps to ensure everything goes smoothly.