bärgning

Bärgning is the process of recovering and removing vehicles or other loads that are immobilized, damaged, or in danger, from roads, water, or other environments. It is performed by specialized service providers, often in cooperation with police, insurance companies, or fleet operators. In everyday usage, the term is most commonly associated with road vehicle recovery after breakdowns or accidents, but it also describes maritime salvage and industrial lifting operations.

On land, bärgning typically uses tow trucks (bärgningsbil) equipped with wheel-lifters, winches, and flatbeds or cranes. The operator assesses scene safety, secures the area, attaches suitable towing gear, and slowly retrieves the vehicle to a safe location or repair site. Heavy-duty bärgning may involve multi-axle trucks, gantries, or cranes, used to recover overturned or severely damaged vehicles or to move heavy cargo.

Maritime bärgning covers salvage of ships, boats, or their cargo. It may require tugs, salvage pumps, floating cranes, pontoons, or other specialized equipment, and is governed by international conventions and national laws.

Procedures emphasize safety, traffic control, environmental protection, and proper documentation. Costs may include call-out fees, hourly rates, hoisting or winching charges, and any required permits or insurance coverage.

Regulatory and professional standards: Operators typically need licenses, insurance, and safety training. In many jurisdictions, bärgning work may require coordination with authorities to secure traffic, manage risk of further damage, and comply with environmental rules.

See also: vehicle recovery, tow truck, salvage operation, marine salvage.