How to Vet a Tow Operator on the Spot: Questions, Photos, and Job Cards | MyMechanic

Quick safety first

• Keep hazard lights on, set the warning triangle well behind the car, and stand on the safe side behind a barrier if available.
• Do not rush loading. Verify first, then proceed once details are clear and confirmed.

• Who assigned this tow? Name the dispatching party and reference number if any.
• Where is the car going? Exact workshop name/category (diagnostic, tyre, body), and whether overnight storage is needed.
• What’s included? Loading, kilometres covered, winching if needed, and after‑hours surcharges. Confirm inclusions; no amounts needed.
• What equipment will be used? Flatbed or wheel‑lift, ramps for low cars, wheel straps, and soft hooks.

Red flags to watch for

• Pressure to load immediately “before police come” or “before it gets more expensive.”
• Refusal to show ID or provide the truck plate number.
• Vague destination like “nearby workshop” without a name.
• Only chain hooks to suspension with no wheel straps available.

Photos to take before loading

• Four corners with plates visible (FL, FR, RL, RR).
• Close‑ups of existing scratches/dents, cracked lights, wheels.
• Interior: odometer, fuel level, and dashboard warnings.
• Scene/location: wide shot with triangle visible and a landmark or KM marker.
• Tow prep: hook/strap points and ramp setup before tension.

How to check a job card like a pro

• Header: tow company, date/time, dispatcher ref, truck plate, operator name/phone.
• Vehicle: plate, make/model, colour, mileage, immobiliser/locknut notes.
• Pickup/drop‑off: clear addresses, opening hours, destination contact person.
• Condition remarks: visible damage, wheel orientation, tyre status, rolls or needs winching.
• Inclusions: loading method (flatbed/wheel‑lift), straps used, special equipment (ramps/dollies).
• Signatures: operator and vehicle custodian; keep a photo of the signed card.

On‑the‑spot script to keep control

• “Please confirm the destination workshop and operating hours.”
• “Before loading, I will take photos of all sides and current damage.”
• “Use wheel straps and ramps, please—this car is low.”
• “Kindly write the destination and inclusions on the job card and sign. I will photograph the job card now.”

Equipment basics that protect the car

• Flatbed with ramps for low vehicles and front lips.
• Wheel straps across tyres; avoid suspension hooks.
• Soft straps or rated recovery points for winching to prevent bumper damage.

If things don’t feel right

• Pause, thank the operator, and call to confirm dispatch or request an alternative.
• Do not hand over keys without a completed job card and a photo.
• If the shoulder is unsafe, request verification at a nearby lay‑by or R&R with better lighting.

• Clear coordination: who’s coming, destination type, and inclusions—shared by text for clarity.
• Photo‑first guidance: which photos to take and how to annotate quickly.
• End‑to‑end handover: updates until delivery and next‑step guidance with the receiving workshop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions