How Much Does a Tow Truck Service Cost?
Michael Collado is a car buying expert and has been a professional automotive writer since 2009. He’s written about dealership sales, vehicle reviews and comparisons, and service and maintenance for over 100 national automotive dealerships. Previously, Collado was a copywriter at the ad agency TBWA/Chiat/Day where he worked on brand campaigns for Nissan, ABC Television, Sony PlayStation, and Energizer. His recognition in the ad industry includes awards from Communication Arts and The Clios.
Collado has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, with a major in Psychology and a minor in Marketing.
Whatever the reason for a tow service is, it will most likely cost money, unless an extended warranty covers it.
So we've put together an easy guide that covers the costs of towing and some tips and tricks to help you pick the right type of service.
Table of Contents
What is a Tow Truck Service?
A tow truck service is a specialized form of vehicle transportation that provides assistance to drivers who are in need of roadside help.
There are several types of tow trucks, each with its own unique set of capabilities and uses.
A flatbed tow truck is the most commonly used type, capable of towing cars, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, and other vehicles.
Other types include wheel-lift tow trucks and boom/crane trucks, which are capable of lifting heavier loads such as boats or large trailers.
Boom/crane trucks use hydraulics and pulleys in order to lift heavy items like boats or large trailers onto their beds for transport purposes.
Benefits Of Using A Tow Truck Service
One benefit that comes from using a tow truck service is convenience; you don’t have to worry about finding someone else who has access to a suitable vehicle for transporting your car if yours breaks down on the side of the road.
Moreover, many businesses provide 24-hour availability so you can acquire help regardless of the time or weather.
Lastly, these services often come at competitive rates, so you won’t have to break your bank when hiring one out for assistance with moving your car safely off the road and into storage while waiting for repairs
Key Takeaway: Tow truck services provide a convenient, cost-effective solution for vehicle transport when you find yourself stranded on the side of the road. They offer 247 availability and can take care of your car's transportation needs so that you don't have to lift a finger. Plus, they usually come at competitive rates which make them an attractive option in times of distress.
How Much Does a Tow Truck Service Cost?
In terms of pricing for towing, there are numerous factors that come into play.
Distance is one of the biggest determinants - longer distances usually mean higher costs due to increased labor and fuel expenses.
Other things like vehicle size, road conditions, time of day (nighttime tows tend to cost more), as well as any special equipment needed can also affect the price tag.
For local tows within city limits or short distances up to 25 miles away from your starting point, expect an average rate between $50-$125 depending on all these factors mentioned above.
If your vehicle needs extra care, such as winching or flatbedding, then rates could go up significantly since those require specialized equipment and additional labor costs.
Long-distance tows over 50 miles will likely run anywhere from $100-$400 depending again on various other variables like weight and size of your car or truck being towed etc
Get Quotes
Get multiple quotes from different providers in order to compare prices accurately. Remember, comparison shopping can lead to savings and ensure quality results with dependable customer care.
Key Takeaway: Towing services can vary in cost depending on the distance and type of service needed. Generally, local tows up to 25 miles away will range from $50-$125 while long-distance tows over 50 miles could run anywhere from $100-$400. It's wise to shop around for quotes so you get a good deal without sacrificing quality workmanship.
What to Look for in a Tow Truck Service Provider?
Licensing and insurance requirements are an essential part of choosing a reliable tow truck service provider. All reputable companies should be properly licensed and insured, so make sure to check these credentials before making any decisions.
Additionally, research their reputation by looking at reviews from previous customers as well as asking for references if possible. Investigating their standing with former customers and, when feasible, obtaining references can help you decide how reliable the firm is and if they deliver satisfactory services.
Another factor to consider when selecting a tow truck service provider is availability and response time. For quick response or in emergency situations, the tow truck service provider should have the necessary equipment and personnel available on demand. It’s also beneficial if they offer 24/7 customer support so that you can always reach out for assistance regardless of what time it may be.
Ensuring that the tow truck service provider employs qualified and experienced drivers, as well as having secure methods for transporting vehicles, is paramount to guarantee a safe journey. Make sure that all drivers employed by the company have the proper qualifications and experience in operating tow trucks safely.
Additionally, ask about their methods for securing vehicles during transport so that nothing gets damaged while being moved from one place to another. By taking these precautions into account beforehand, you can rest assured knowing that your vehicle will arrive safely without any issues along the way.
Key Takeaway: When selecting a tow truck service provider, it is essential to check the company's credentials and reputation for quality services. Additionally, ensure that they offer prompt availability and response times as well as safe transport procedures in order to guarantee an efficient job done right.
What Are the Different Types of Towing Services?
There are several different types of tow truck services available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Local Towing Services
Local towing services are typically used when your vehicle needs assistance within a certain geographic area. These companies usually charge by the mile, so you’ll want to make sure you know how far away your destination is before calling them out.
This type of service can also be used if you need help getting into a tight parking spot or if your car won’t start due to mechanical issues like dead batteries or flat tires.
Long Distance Towing Services
Long-distance tows involve transporting your vehicle over longer distances than local ones do, often across state lines or even across country borders.
These types of tows require specialized equipment and expertise since the transport may take days instead of hours like with local tows, so it’s important that you choose a reputable company for this kind of job as it could get expensive quickly if something goes wrong during transit.
Emergency Roadside Assistance Services
Emergency roadside assistance provides immediate help when needed in case of an accident or breakdown on the side of the road, such as running out of gas, being locked out, having tire problems, etc.
Most roadside assistance companies will come right away no matter where you are located; however, some may have restrictions based on location and availability, so always check first before calling them out.
This type of service typically includes jump-starts, fuel delivery/refillings, lockout services, and more, depending on which company you choose.
Key Takeaway: Towing services are an invaluable asset to any driver, offering a secure way to move vehicles in need of assistance. There is something for everyone when it comes to tow truck services - from local tows and long distance transportation, right down the emergency roadside help if you find yourself stuck on the side of the road. No matter the difficulty, aid is always accessible for those in need.
Safety Considerations When Hiring a Tow Truck Service Provider
Ensuring that your car is securely fastened during transit is critical for it to reach its destination unscathed and intact. Drivers must also be experienced and qualified in order to properly handle your vehicle while transporting it.
Finally, taking necessary precautions during emergencies is important for both the driver’s safety as well as yours.
Ensure that the four tires of your vehicle are properly secured to the tow truck with tough straps or chains, so they do not shift during transport. The wheels should not move at all when secured correctly; if they do, ask for additional straps or chains until they remain firmly in place.
Additionally, check that any loose items inside the car are tied down or removed from the car before transportation begins.
Before engaging a tow truck service provider, verify that their drivers possess the expertise in driving large vehicles such as flatbed trucks and have been trained on proper loading techniques for various cars and SUVs.
Furthermore, they should be conversant with the traffic laws applicable when operating a tow truck on public roads to ensure safe travel while avoiding potential road hazards like debris or other obstacles along the way.
Key Takeaway: When hiring a tow truck service, safety should be the top priority. Make sure all four tires are securely fastened on the bed of the truck with heavy-duty straps or chains and that any loose items inside your car have been tied down before transportation begins. Additionally, verify that their drivers possess expertise in driving large vehicles such as flatbed trucks and understand traffic laws to ensure safe travel while avoiding road hazards along the way.
