When your vehicle breaks down or you encounter a roadside incident in which your car is unable to move, you will need a reliable towing service. You might be asking, how much does towing cost?
It’s essential to understand the potential costs associated with towing to make informed decisions and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Keep in mind that towing costs may vary depending on several factors, such as your type of vehicle, distance, and time of service, among other things.
By exploring these factors and gaining insight into average cost ranges, you can better navigate the realm of towing services and make the best decision that aligns with your current needs and budget.
How Much Does Towing Cost?
As mentioned earlier, towing costs can depend on your vehicle, including the time and additional services you may need. Moreover, rates can differ from one towing company to another — and can be subject to change as well.
To give you a general idea, we’ve specified the average tow costs per towing service and number of miles involved.
| Type of Towing | Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Local Towing | $50-$150 | $100 |
| Long Distance Towing | $150-$300 | $225 |
| Specialized Towing | $300-$1000 (depending on factors like the weight, size, distance, and specialized equipment or personnel required for the tow) | $500 |
Average Cost Per Mile for Towing
Here are some average cost ranges for towing:
| Miles | Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | $80 | $30-$125 |
| 10 | $95 | $65-$125 |
| 20 | $145 | $105-$185 |
| 50 | $233 | $165-$300 |
| 100 | $388 | $325-$450 |
Factors Affecting Towing Costs
Several factors can affect the cost of towing services. Here are some key factors that influence towing costs:
- Distance: The distance that the vehicle needs to be towed is a significant factor in determining the cost. Longer distances generally result in higher towing costs compared to shorter distances.
- Type of Vehicle: The type of vehicle being towed plays a role in the cost. Bigger and heavier vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, or recreational vehicles (RVs), may require specialized equipment or towing techniques, which can increase the overall cost.
- Type of Tow: Different types of towing methods have varying costs. For example, flatbed towing, where the entire vehicle is loaded onto a flatbed truck, is generally more expensive than wheel-lift towing, where only one end of the vehicle is lifted off the ground. Moreover, the tow truck used for wheel-lift towing doesn’t have to be specially equipped.
- Time of Service: The timing of the towing service can impact the cost. Emergency or after-hours towing services may have higher rates compared to regular business hours. Towing services provided during weekends, holidays, or at night may also incur additional charges, especially if your car needs to be pulled out of a ditch.
- Additional Services: In some cases, you may need other services, such as lockout assistance, fuel delivery, tire changes, or jump-starts. These services may come with an extra cost. The extent and complexity of the additional services will also influence the overall towing cost.
- Geographic Location: Towing costs can vary based on the region or location. Factors such as local competition, operating costs, and demand for towing services in a specific area can impact the pricing.
- Towing Company Policies: Each towing company may have its own pricing structure, including base fees, mileage rates, and any additional charges. Be sure to inquire about these details when contacting towing companies for service.
- Insurance Coverage: If the towing service is covered by roadside assistance or insurance, the cost may be partially or fully covered, depending on the policy terms and limits. With that, we recommend reviewing your insurance coverage to understand the extent of towing benefits provided.
By considering these factors, individuals can better understand the potential cost of towing and make the right choice when choosing a towing service.
The next time you encounter the unexpected, provide specific details about the situation to a local towing company. It also helps to compare quotes to determine the most suitable and cost-effective option.
Summary
While average cost ranges can give you an idea, it’s important to note that actual prices may differ between towing companies and specific circumstances.
Obtaining quotes from local towing providers such as Neighborhood Roadside Assistance, before agreeing to a service, is the best way to determine the exact cost for your specific towing needs.
