A standard tow truck typically tows vehicles by lifting one end and pulling them to a location. In contrast, a rotator is a heavy-duty crane unit that can lift, rotate, and reposition massive vehicles or equipment in tight or hazardous spaces. This makes it ideal for semi rollovers, sunken trailers, and off-road recoveries where precision and control are essential.

Costs can vary based on the complexity of the recovery, location, and time of day. At Central Iowa Towing and Recovery, rotator deployment typically starts at $600/hr, with upright recoveries ranging between $700–$900/hr. Load shifts, hazmat coordination, and mileage may affect the final bill, but our team provides transparent pricing upfront to avoid surprises.

You should request a rotator when:

• A semi, box truck, or tanker has rolled over
• Your equipment is trapped, stuck, or tipped in a tight space
• You need to lift heavier-than-average cargo (30,000 lbs+)
• There’s a hazmat risk and precision is crucial
• A load shift has made the vehicle unstable to drive

Our experienced dispatchers will assess the situation and recommend the right equipment for the job.

Yes! We operate 24/7/365 throughout Des Moines and surrounding cities. Whether your fleet breaks down at 2 PM or 2 AM, our rotator crane crew is ready to deploy immediately with certified operators and fully equipped recovery units.

Absolutely. Rotators are ideal for construction machinery, agricultural equipment, mobile cranes, pavers, trailers, and even aircraft in emergency situations. We’ve helped lift everything from collapsed concrete forms to stuck excavators on job sites across Iowa.