Loading Skates: Essential Tools for Vehicle Recovery and Transport

When it comes to moving damaged, immobile, or wrecked vehicles, few tools are as essential as loading skates. Designed to help vehicles slide smoothly onto rollbacks or trailers, these devices reduce friction and make it possible to transport cars even when wheels are locked, broken, or missing. Professional towers rely on auto skates and automotive loading skates to protect vehicles, save time, and prevent equipment strain during recovery operations.

Why Use Automotive Loading Skates?

In the towing and recovery industry, not every vehicle is easy to move. Damaged suspension components, locked brakes, or missing wheels can make loading extremely difficult. That’s where automotive skates come in.

• Control Arm Skates – These fit under the control arm of a car, helping the entire vehicle slide onto a rollback without rolling resistance.
• Wheel Skates – Designed to be used with the vehicle’s wheels, they provide a low-friction surface to slide on.
• Traditional Automotive Skates – Classic wedge-style skates that serve as versatile recovery tools for a wide range of situations.

By using auto skates or loading skates for trailers, you minimize damage to both the vehicle and your towing equipment while making difficult recoveries much more manageable.

Best-Selling Loading Skates at Zip’s

Zip’s offers a range of automotive loading skates from industry leaders like ITI Skates and WreckMaster. Popular models include:

• WreckMaster Skate – A proven recovery tool, perfect for sliding vehicles in tough towing situations.
• ITI Control Arm Skate – Specifically designed to fit under control arms, making it easier to load vehicles with suspension or wheel damage.
  
  
• WreckMaster Traditional Skate – A durable and reliable option for towers who want a versatile, all-purpose skate.
• ITI Yellow Automotive Skate – Highly visible and designed for maximum durability, this ITI Automotive Skate is a favorite among professionals.

With trusted brands like WreckMaster Skates and ITI Skates, towers can count on long-lasting performance and dependable recovery tools.

Choosing the Right Auto Skates

When selecting automotive skates for your towing operation, consider the following:

• Application – Control arm skates are best for damaged suspensions, while wheel skates work when tires are intact.
• Material & Durability – Look for high-density polyethylene or similar materials that can withstand heavy loads and repeated use.
• Size & Style – Compact skates are easier to carry and store, while larger models provide more stability for bigger vehicles.
• Visibility – Brightly colored skates, like the ITI yellow models, reduce the chance of leaving equipment behind at the scene.

By matching the right automotive loading skates to your needs, you’ll be prepared for virtually any vehicle recovery scenario.

FAQ: Loading Skates for Towing

What are loading skates used for in towing?
Loading skates help immobile or damaged vehicles slide onto rollbacks or trailers, reducing friction and preventing further damage.

What is the difference between control arm skates and wheel skates?
Control arm skates are placed under the control arm of a vehicle, while wheel skates are designed to slide under the tires. Both serve the same purpose but are suited to different conditions.

Are WreckMaster Skates and ITI Automotive Skates interchangeable?
Yes, both brands make automotive skates designed for similar applications, though each has its own style and features.

Do I need multiple sets of auto skates?
For professional towing operations, it’s recommended to carry multiple skates so you can handle different vehicle conditions, from locked brakes to missing wheels.

Are loading skates reusable?
Yes, automotive skates are made from heavy-duty materials and are built for repeated professional use.