Truck towing in Belgium: everything you need to know

When is towing the right choice for a truck?

Towing becomes necessary when your truck cannot be made roadworthy on the spot. This applies to serious engine defects where driving further would worsen the damage — such as an engine failure with oil pressure warning, a turbo fault or a severe cooling system failure. A damaged drivetrain, defective steering or a damaged chassis after an accident also makes further movement unsafe.

A second situation where towing is preferable is when the vehicle is located where on-site repair is impractical: the hard shoulder of a busy motorway, a narrow business entrance or a location without working space. In those cases, transport to a suitable workshop is more efficient and safer than attempting a roadside repair.

How is truck towing different from car towing?

A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 44 tonnes, compared to a typical car of around 1.5 tonnes. This weight difference requires specialist heavy recovery trucks — heavy wreckers or rotator recovery vehicles — with sufficient lifting and pulling capacity. A standard roadside assistance vehicle is not equipped for such operations.

The length of a truck combination — tractor plus semi-trailer up to 18.75 metres — adds further complexity. The operator must manoeuvre correctly to move the vehicle without damaging the cargo or structure. Always provide the vehicle type and estimated weight when submitting your request.

What information to provide when requesting truck towing?

A smooth towing operation starts with accurate information. When submitting your request, provide: vehicle type (van, tractor unit, truck with trailer), estimated weight loaded or unloaded, exact location including motorway number and kilometre marker, and the nature of the fault.

Also indicate whether your vehicle is carrying hazardous goods (ADR transport) and if so, the UN numbers and hazard class. This directly affects which type of service provider is required. Without correct information, the deployed recovery vehicle may not have the right capacity for your situation.

How does a truck towing operation work step by step?

After you submit your request via the FastAssist24 platform, it is forwarded to available service providers in your region with the right equipment for your vehicle type. An available provider confirms your request and communicates an estimated arrival time.

On arrival, the operator assesses the situation: the vehicle position, ground conditions, presence of hazardous materials and the safest securing method. On motorways, the safety of the operator, driver and other road users always takes priority. After the operation, your truck is transported to the destination you specified.

Safety rules while waiting for the recovery truck

If your truck breaks down on a motorway: switch on hazard lights immediately and pull as far as possible onto the hard shoulder. Exit the cab from the right side — away from moving traffic. Put on your high-visibility vest and place your warning triangle at least 100 metres behind the vehicle.

Wait behind the crash barrier, never on the hard shoulder or carriageway. Inform your dispatcher so that cargo and scheduling can be managed. In dangerous situations or if there are injuries, call 112 immediately.

ADR trucks and specialist recovery

If your truck is carrying dangerous goods under the ADR regulations, special rules apply and a certified ADR operator is required. Not all service providers hold the necessary certification and equipment.

When submitting your request via FastAssist24, you can indicate ADR transport. Include the hazard class and UN numbers. Your request will then be matched to providers with the appropriate capacity. If in doubt, always state the nature of the cargo.

Requesting truck towing via FastAssist24

FastAssist24 is a digital platform that enables drivers and fleet managers to quickly submit a towing request. You enter your location, vehicle type and the nature of the problem. Your request is forwarded to available service providers in your region equipped for your vehicle.

No subscription is required — you only pay for the actual intervention. Via the platform you track the status of your request and receive an estimated arrival time. FastAssist24 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and public holidays.

Frequently asked questions