Papé Material Handling offers industrial tow tractors and tugs designed to move carts, trailers, and staged loads safely across warehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and industrial campuses. These units are built for controlled horizontal transport, helping operations streamline internal logistics without relying on forklifts for every task. 

Explore additional models within our carts and utility vehicles category or browse our full new equipment inventory to align tug solutions with your broader fleet strategy. 

Tiger industrial tow tractors are engineered for dependable towing performance in high-cycle environments. Available in lithium-ion, gas, and repower configurations, Tiger models are well-suited for facilities requiring consistent trailer movement and extended daily run time. 

• Tiger Li-Ion – Electric-powered towing with reduced maintenance and consistent torque delivery. 

• Tiger Gas – Internal combustion option for extended shifts and higher-duty applications. 

• Tiger Repower – Retrofit solution for upgrading existing fleets with modern power systems. 

Taylor-Dunn tow tractors are widely used in warehouse and airport environments for controlled trailer movement and predictable route management. 

• Taylor-Dunn TT-316 – Compact industrial tug designed for maneuverability in tight warehouse aisles and dock staging areas. 

Cushman tugs provide durable towing capability for industrial and commercial applications where reliability and operator comfort are essential. 

• Cushman Tug 8K AC – High-capacity electric tug designed for controlled trailer movement across large facilities. 

Motrec industrial tugs are built for heavy-duty towing applications and continuous use environments. These models are commonly deployed in manufacturing plants, logistics hubs, and expansive warehouse operations. 

• Motrec MT-160 – Compact tow tractor for light- to mid-duty industrial applications. 

• Motrec MT-210 – Enhanced towing performance for daily material movement. 

• Motrec MT-280 – Mid-capacity tug built for consistent route cycles. 

• Motrec MT-290 – Durable electric towing for warehouse transport systems. 

• Motrec MT-340 – Higher-capacity industrial towing platform. 

• Motrec MT-350 – Designed for demanding, continuous-use environments. 

• Motrec MT-440 – Heavy-duty tow tractor for large-scale operations. 

• Trailer and cart movement within warehouses 

• Manufacturing line-side material delivery 

• Airport baggage and ground support operations 

• Distribution center route-based transport systems 

• Industrial campus logistics loops 

If you require short-term towing support or project-based equipment, explore available rental equipment. Papé Material Handling also provides ongoing product support, parts availability, and preventative maintenance to keep your tow tractor fleet operating efficiently. 

To connect with a local equipment specialist, visit our locations page and find the nearest Papé Material Handling branch. 

What is the difference between a tow tractor and a tug? 

In industrial applications, the terms “tow tractor” and “tug” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a vehicle designed to pull carts, trailers, or staged loads across a facility. Some manufacturers use “tug” for compact electric units and “tow tractor” for heavier-duty industrial models, but functionally they perform the same core task: horizontal load movement. 

What are tow tractors used for? 

Tow tractors are used to move trailers, parts carts, and bulk loads along predefined routes within warehouses, manufacturing plants, airports, and distribution centers. They support lean material flow systems and reduce forklift congestion in horizontal transport applications. 

How much weight can an industrial tug pull? 

Towing capacity depends on the specific model and configuration. Industrial tugs can range from light-duty applications moving small cart trains to heavy-duty models capable of pulling several thousand pounds. Always review manufacturer towing capacity ratings and facility conditions before deployment. 

Are tow tractors electric or gas powered? 

Many modern industrial tow tractors operate on electric battery systems, including lithium-ion technology. Gas-powered options are also available for extended outdoor use or higher-duty cycles where refueling speed is a priority. 

When should I use a tow tractor instead of a forklift? 

Tow tractors are best suited for horizontal transport of staged or carted materials across longer routes. Forklifts are more appropriate for lifting and stacking loads vertically. In high-efficiency facilities, both are often used together to optimize material flow. 

Can tow tractors be used indoors? 

Electric tow tractors are commonly used indoors due to their low noise levels and zero direct emissions. They are well-suited for warehouse route systems and manufacturing line-side delivery operations. 

Is it better to rent or purchase a tow tractor? 

Rental solutions may support temporary increases in production volume or project-based needs. Purchasing is typically more cost-effective for facilities operating continuous route-based material transport systems.