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Comparing the Best: Rollback Trucks vs. HydraTail Trucks

Find the right heavy haul truck. Rollback or HydraTail Truck

Trying to decide on the best hydraulic dovetail truck?

There’s a reason that Rollback Trucks and HydraTail Trucks are trusted across job sites. These trucks are built to handle a wide range of hauling needs. When you’re looking for the right hydraulic dovetail truck, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Start with your needs. Do you need more clearance or stronger bed support? Do you need extra flexibility in how you load? Make a list of what matters most and go over it with your manufacturer before you buy.

Rollback and HydraTail Trucks both haul multiple pieces of equipment with ease. Both come equipped with a heavy-duty 20,000-pound planetary winch and full wireless controls. They provide a stable, flat surface for hauling and each one is built to take on tough jobs. But depending on your work, one may fit better than the other.

HydraTail Truck made by Ledwell for heavy haul transport

Height

The HydraTail bed sits about five and a half inches lower than a standard Rollback. That extra room can make a big difference when hauling tall equipment or when you need to stay under clearance limits, like underpasses or bridges. For many construction and equipment rental companies, that height difference matters.

Operation

A HydraTail uses a folding tail to load moveable equipment onto the bed. You can winch it up easily. The Rollback, on the other hand, tilts the entire bed, which gives you a great load angle. That means you can guide equipment into position smoothly using the winch. Both styles work well—just depends on the type of equipment and job site you’re working with.

heavy duty rollback truck by ledwell - Machinery Moving Bed Truck for sale

Footprint

Where you load and unload matters too. A Rollback bed slides back, so you’ll need extra space behind the truck. The HydraTail lifts instead, which means it takes up less room on the ground. That makes a difference in tighter areas, like busy city streets or cramped yards.

Still unsure which one is right for you? Reach out to our sales team. We’ll learn about your job and help you pick the right truck to get it done.

Fall 2025

Ledwell Newsletter - Fall 2025

Essential Tips to Winterize Your Water Truck

 

When temperatures drop, protecting your water truck from freezing isn’t just smart, it’s necessary. A frozen system can be costly and cause downtime. Winterizing your equipment goes a long way in keeping it running strong when the cold hits.

 

Here’s how to get your water truck winter-ready:

Maximizing Tax Benefits with Section 179

 

Updated tax laws may let your business write off the entire cost in the same year. It’s a smart way to keep more cash in your operation while getting equipment you need.

 

Get the Full Breakdown

Employee Spotlight: John Berbig

 

If you’ve ever set foot in the Machine Shop, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with John Berbig. And if you haven’t, his work has still likely had a hand in something you’ve seen roll out of the yard.

 

Meet John

Buddy Award Winners

 

The Buddy Award is an employee recognition program honoring individuals who embody Buddy Ledwell’s spirit. Recipients are celebrated for their unwavering commitment to our core values: Quality, Grit, Legacy, and Family.

These outstanding team members excel in their roles and inspire others. The Buddy Award is a testament to their hard work, integrity, and positive impact at Ledwell.

Juan Hernandez

Truck Shop

Kevin Jones

Kit Bay

Devonta Britt

Paint Department

John Williams

Maintenance

Ledwell Employee Spotlight - July 2019

Thank you all for your hard work and commitment over the
years—you’re an essential part of the Ledwell team.

Built to Stick: Inside the Graphics Department

 

Quality doesn’t stop at the welds or the wiring. Led by Ray Fox, the Graphics Department ensures every piece of equipment carries the Ledwell name with pride. From custom decals to safety labels, this team makes sure our message shows up right every time.

 

See how it’s done

Caught Working Safe: Making Safety a Way of Life

 

Safety is a shared responsibility, and in July 2023, we put that belief into action with the launch of our Caught Working Safe program. Two years in, it is more than a program. It is part of how we work.

 

Get the Full Story

The Power of a Crash Truck

 

When safety is on the line, the Ledwell Truck Mounted Attenuator delivers. Built to absorb impact, it protects
crews, drivers, and equipment when it matters most. In high-risk work zones, where a split second can make all
the difference, a crash truck is more than equipment; it’s peace of mind.

 

Discover More

 

Stay in the know with the Ledwell Newsletter.

Don’t miss out on the latest innovations and happenings. Stay in the loop with the Ledwell newsletter.

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John Berbig

If you’ve ever set foot in the Machine Shop, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with John Berbig. And if you haven’t, his work has still likely had a hand in something you’ve seen roll out of the yard. For the past 14 years, John has been a steady presence at Ledwell, rising to the role of Leadman thanks to his strong work ethic and commitment.

When asked what keeps him coming back every day, John doesn’t hesitate. “The environment is what motivates me. Ledwell takes care of you and you don’t find that at most places”, he said. That sense of care and opportunity is what fuels his drive, whether it’s helping a teammate or taking on the next challenge in the shop.

John is especially proud of completing the SEED Program, calling it a turning point in his journey at Ledwell.

“It opens a doorway for anyone up and coming to see more about the company,” John says. “It builds bonds between employees.”

That experience not only strengthened his understanding of the business but deepened his connection with the people who keep it running.

One of the biggest lessons he’s learned is it’s okay to fail but never give up. Failing is where you learn lessons and grow. It’s a mindset that fits right in at Ledwell, where grit and growth go hand in hand.

And when it comes to precision, John knows most folks wouldn’t guess the level of detail that goes into the Machine Shop. It’s not just using a tape measurer. We’re talking about microns of accuracy for some parts. It’s that kind of exactness that keeps Ledwell equipment running strong job after job.

Outside of work, John is a proud husband to Chelsea, and together they’re raising five kids—four girls and one boy. That same sense of responsibility carries over into everything he does at Ledwell.

We’re proud to shine a light on John Berbig. A leader, a mentor, and a reminder that real craftsmanship starts with people who care.

The Power of a Crash Truck

Manufacturer Ledwell Crash Truck TMA

When safety is on the line, the Ledwell Truck Mounted Attenuator delivers. Built to absorb impact, it protects crews, drivers, and equipment when it matters most. In high-risk work zones, where a split second can make all the difference, a crash truck is more than equipment; it’s peace of mind.

What sets the Ledwell TMA apart is its ability to perform without slowing the job down. With zero ground engagement, it’s easy to operate and keeps projects moving. Its durable, low-maintenance design means less downtime, more uptime, and lasting value for anyone who depends on safety and reliability every day.

The Ledwell TMA is more than equipment. It’s protection you can count on. It reduces risk, protects lives, and stands strong against the toughest conditions, all while delivering dependable performance day after day. That’s the Ledwell difference: equipment built to last, backed by the Ledwell Made Guarantee.

Ledwell Crash Truck - MASH Certified

What makes it stand out:

    • Absorbs collisions to protect people and equipment

 

    • Zero ground engagement for simple operation

 

    • Minimal maintenance for maximum uptime

 

    • Reliable performance that delivers long term value
Manufacturer Ledwell Crash Truck TMA

CRASH TRUCKS

Take the first step toward enhancing road safety.

Discover how our Crash Trucks can be tailored to your unique requirements. We’re all about making your job easier while ensuring you and your team stay safe.

Let’s customize your solution today.

Explore TMA Options > >

Caught Working Safe: Making Safety a Way of Life at Ledwell

Safety is a shared responsibility, and in July 2023, we put that belief into action with the launch of our Caught Working Safe program. Two years in, it is more than a program. It is part of how we work.

Caught Working Safe recognizes employees who follow safe practices, including wearing PPE, keeping clean workspaces, helping with safety meetings, and operating equipment with care.

Every month, employees are recognized. Each quarter, they are invited to lunch and a prize drawing to celebrate safe behavior.

The program was designed to highlight what is going right and motivate safe habits. Our safety team and foremen look for employees doing things the right way, building a safety-first mindset.

The result? Fewer injuries and stronger safety awareness. Employees are speaking up, spotting hazards, and taking initiative. That is the culture we want.

“The fact that we are having positive conversations about safety shows that it is becoming a cultural expectation. It is a way of life,” Director of Human Resources, Amado Azua said.

Caught Working Safe reflects our values: Family, Legacy, Grit, and Quality. Taking care of each other is what family does. Amado mentioned, “As family, we all share the responsibility of making sure everyone gets home safe.”

Two years in, our team is proud to get “caught” working safe. And we are just getting started.

Built to Stick: Inside the Graphics Department

Quality doesn’t stop at the welds or the wiring. Led by Ray Fox, the Graphics Department ensures every piece of equipment carries the Ledwell name with pride. From custom decals to safety labels, this team makes sure our message shows up right every time.

Their job starts with more than just a printer. It begins with understanding exactly what the equipment needs, whether that’s DOT-mandated safety decals or company branding.

Designs are created using industry software, then produced with high-performance printers and cutters that handle everything from small warning labels to large logos.

Printed materials are laminated for protection against weather and wear, helping them last for years.

Surfaces are cleaned, and decals are applied using steady pressure and attention to detail for a clean, lasting finish.

What makes the Ledwell Graphics Department different is not just the quality of their materials or equipment, but their attention to detail and the understanding that every application is more than just decoration. It’s a representation of the Ledwell name.

Every label has a purpose. Every wrap tells a story. And every finished piece reflects our commitment to doing the job right.

From start to finish, the Graphics Department plays a vital role. Their work stays visible long after the product leaves the yard, carrying our legacy down the road.

Kyle Hillis

For the past 14 years, Kyle Hillis has been a key member of the Ledwell team, hauling equipment across the US and Canada, ensuring our customers receive what they need, when and where they need it.

But Kyle does more than just deliver equipment. He is also part of our field service effort, stepping in to troubleshoot and make repairs when a customer needs a hand. Right now, he is on the road heading across the country to do just that.

When asked what a typical day looks like, Kyle just laughs. “There’s no such thing as a typical day when you’re a driver,” he says. “Every job depends on the destination.”

What stays consistent is Kyle’s commitment to the customer. He especially enjoys delivering to first time Ledwell buyers. “You can always see their excitement,” he says. “I like training them on how to operate the equipment. It’s rewarding to be part of that first impression.”

Over the years, Kyle has picked up some valuable lessons. The biggest one? “Pay attention. Be aware of what you’re doing and what’s around you.” It is advice that serves him well when navigating long hauls and customer sites across North America.

Ask him what keeps him going, and his answer is simple. “Up here is like family. That makes it easy to be motivated every day.”

When he is not behind the wheel, Kyle enjoys golfing with his partner of five years, Misty. He is also a proud grandfather, spoiling three grandkids with two more on the way.

We are proud to have Kyle represent Ledwell on the road. His dedication, attitude, and experience make him more than just a driver. He is a trusted face of the Ledwell brand.

John Williams

Employee Spotlight - John Williams

Since 2005, John Williams has been a key part of the Ledwell team. He came in ready to take on tough jobs, and from day one, he’s been our go-to for electrical maintenance. His work keeps us moving and speaks volumes about his dedication to doing things right.

Installing cranes is one of John’s favorite tasks. He’s wired and programmed nearly 40 of them over the years, each one built to make life easier and safer for our team. You can see the pride in his craftsmanship every time a crane fires up without a hitch.

John’s work comes with challenges, especially when electrical problems pop up without warning. But he doesn’t back down. His ability to troubleshoot fast and get equipment back online shows just how much he values quality, reliability, and keeping the job on track.

John Williams - Ledwell Employee Spotlight

Before Ledwell, John spent ten years in the Navy, serving our country with the same discipline and purpose he brings to his role today. That experience shaped his sharp attention to detail and his steady, no-nonsense approach.

When he’s off the clock, John enjoys a quieter kind of precision, caring for his aquariums. He keeps angel fish and tiger barbs, along with coral he collected while stationed near the Indian Sea. It’s a passion that reflects his deep respect for life and balance.

At the core of everything John does is his faith. “Knowing someone is there to carry the weight of the world for you is so inspiring,” he says. It’s that belief that helps him stay grounded and focused, no matter what comes his way.

John Williams isn’t just a skilled electrician; he’s a steady hand, a quiet leader, and a living example of what it means to be Ledwell Made. We’re proud to have him on the team and even prouder of the legacy he continues to build every day.

How Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation Help You Write Off 100% of Equipment Costs

If you’re planning to invest in new or used equipment in 2025, there’s good news. Thanks to updated tax laws, your business may be able to write off the entire cost of qualifying equipment in the year of purchase. It’s a smart way to keep more cash in your business while getting the tools you need to get the job done right.

Here’s how Section 179 and bonus depreciation work together to maximize your savings.

What is Section 179?

Section 179 allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment that is financed or purchased and placed into service during the tax year. For 2025, the deduction limit is $ 2.5 million.

This limit applies to both new and used equipment as long as it’s used for business purposes. That means if you buy a used Ledwell Feed Trailer or a brand new Water Truck and start using it in your business before December 31, 2025, you can deduct the full amount, up to the Section 179 limit.

What is Bonus Depreciation?

Bonus depreciation kicks in once you’ve hit the Section 179 cap. In 2025, the rate returns to 100 percent, meaning a business can fully deduct any amount exceeding the $2.5 million Section 179 limit.

The best part is that bonus depreciation has no dollar limit and also applies to used equipment. The only restriction is that used equipment cannot come from a related party, like a family-owned affiliate or subsidiary.

How They Work Together

Section 179 and bonus depreciation can be used in the same tax year. Section 179 is applied first, followed by bonus depreciation on the remaining amount.

This combination can result in a complete write-off of the first year for most equipment purchases.

Example:

Let’s say a customer buys $2.7 million worth of Ledwell equipment.

The first $2.5 million is deducted under Section 179.

The remaining $200,000 is eligible for 100 percent bonus depreciation.

The result equals $2.7 million entirely written off in the first year.

This is real money saved, and a real reason to act before the end of the year.

Used Equipment Rules

Yes, both Section 179 and bonus depreciation also apply to used equipment. That’s great news for customers looking at pre-owned trucks, trailers, or other machinery. To qualify for the full tax benefit, the equipment must meet a few simple conditions:

· Equipment must be new to the buyer (even if it’s previously used by someone else)

· Equipment must be purchased, not gifted or inherited

· Equipment must be used for business and placed in service within the tax year

· Equipment must not be bought from a related party

A related party includes close connections, such as family members, spouses, or entities where there’s common ownership or control. For example, if you own two businesses and one sells equipment to the other, that’s considered a related party transaction and would not qualify under bonus depreciation rules.

By following these guidelines, your used equipment purchase can still deliver the same big tax savings as buying new.

This tax break is one of the best opportunities businesses have to reduce their tax liability while investing in the equipment they need to grow. Whether it’s Crash Trucks, Dump Trucks, or HydraTail Trailers, Ledwell is here to help you make the most of your purchase.