When your vehicle breaks down, it’s easy to imagine that all recovery services are the same — turn up, tow the car, job done. But at Red’s Recovery, there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes. From the moment you call us, our team is already assessing the situation and preparing the right tools, truck, and techniques to get you back on the road safely.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly how the recovery process works — what happens when you call us, the specialist tools we bring, and why our use of vehicle skates sets us apart from other local recovery companies.
1. The Call-Out: What Happens First
It all starts with your call. Whether you’re stuck on the motorway, broken down in a car park, or unable to move your car off your own driveway, we ask the right questions straight away to figure out exactly what you need.
We’ll ask:
- Where you are
- What kind of vehicle you have
- What the issue seems to be (if known)
- Whether it’s safe to approach the vehicle
This allows us to send the right recovery truck and the correct tools, so we can get to work straight away when we arrive — no delays, no guesswork.
2. The Recovery Truck: More Than Just a Tow
Not all recovery trucks are created equal. At Red’s Recovery, we run modern, well-equipped vehicles that are ready for almost any breakdown or recovery situation.
Our fleet includes:
- Flatbed trucks – for safe, secure vehicle transport
- Tilt-and-slide beds – to recover low vehicles or those in awkward positions
- Winch-equipped units – for non-running or stuck vehicles
Our recovery trucks are checked and maintained regularly to ensure they’re always ready to roll — safely, reliably, and fast.
3. Tools of the Trade: What We Use (and Why)
It’s not just about having the truck — it’s about what’s on it. Every Red’s Recovery services vehicle carries a full kit of professional tools and gear, so we’re prepared for anything.
Some of the tools we use on a daily basis:
- Electric jump packs – for flat batteries (no need for another car)
- Heavy-duty winches – for safely pulling cars onto the bed
- Wheel straps and tie-downs – to secure vehicles in transit
- Lockout kits – for those accidental “keys-locked-in” moments
- Jacks and wheel chocks – for safe tyre or wheel-related issues
- Recovery skates – and here’s where things get interesting…
4. Skates: The Red’s Recovery Difference
Most recovery companies don’t carry or use recovery skates — we do.
What are skates?
Recovery skates are compact wheeled platforms that slide under your vehicle’s tyres, allowing us to move or load a vehicle even if it can’t roll on its own.
We use them when:
- The wheels are locked (e.g. electric handbrake failure)
- The car is parked awkwardly or stuck in gear
- The suspension is damaged or collapsed
- Towing could cause further damage
Why does it matter?
Without skates, many recovery companies would have to drag or force-move the vehicle — causing scratches, tyre damage, or worse. With our skates, we can gently glide your vehicle onto our truck without causing any harm.
It’s a cleaner, safer, and more professional solution — and something that sets us apart in the local recovery services game.
5. Safety First, Always
Every job we do is carried out with safety at the core — both yours and ours. We never cut corners, rush a job, or take unnecessary risks.
Our drivers are trained, experienced, and always carry PPE. We work methodically, use the right tools for the job, and ensure every vehicle we recover is treated with the care it deserves — whether it’s a work van or a weekend classic.
6. Why It Matters to You
When you call Red’s Recovery, you’re not just calling for a lift — you’re getting:
- A fast response
- The right truck for the job
- Proper tools and techniques
- A team that cares about your vehicle
- Advanced equipment like skates that others don’t use
That means less damage, less stress, and a smoother recovery every time.
Need Help Now?
Whether your wheels won’t turn or you’re stuck in a tight spot, Red’s Recovery is ready to help — day or night, rain or shine.
Save our number now: 01634 926801
We’re available 24/7 for breakdown recovery services across the UK.