Fees for both distance and type of vehicle are based on the type of tow that is needed. If the vehicle cannot be driven away after an accident or breaks down, it must be towed from the scene. The method chosen will depend largely on how close to normal vehicle movement conditions this will return our car or motorcycle. Naturally, what kind of service you need—and where your RV lies within it all—can greatly affect its price.
The cost of towing can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as how far your vehicle needs to be hauled, what kind of tow truck is required, the time of day, and the season. They will be advised on present objectives. Understandably, it is expected that people should be willing to stand back and offer their advice when work begins.
Knowing the cost factors that influence tow rates can help you make an informed decision if the need arises. The following describes the costs for towing services, what influences tow rates, and how to save money while still getting good service.
What Determines Towing Costs?
Towing costs are not fixed and can vary significantly. Some things which generally affect these costs include:
Distance to Be Towed
The primary factor affecting the cost of towing is how far your car must be towed. Most towing companies charge a basic rate for the first few miles and then have a per-mile fee after that. So, the farther it is towed, the more expensive it gets.
Type of Vehicle
Towing rates also depend on the type of vehicle being towed. For example, larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans will require a larger, more specialized tow truck, which can increase the cost. On the other hand, a standard car typically costs less to tow than large vehicles.
Type of Tow
There are different methods of towing, each with its costs. A flatbed tow, where the vehicle is loaded onto a truck bed entirely, often costs more than a standard two-wheeled tow. For the latter, rather than being completely lifted at any point in travel, all weights are transferred from the front to the back of the vehicle, so less damage occurs. Which team for your car will influence your total cost?
Time of Day
Night and holiday towing costs can be considerably higher than during regular daytime hours. Towing companies often charge extra for nighttime or holiday service because of greater demand and more personnel needed. Towing companies extend their business hours to 24/7 so as to provide fast, convenient service whenever you need it most—even if it’s pitch black outside or late at night on Sunday morning.
Location of Pickup
Where your car is located can also determine how much you’ll pay for a tow. Towing from areas that are remote, or otherwise difficult to reach by normal means, may jack up the cost because of the increased time and resources required for tow trucks to reach you.
Roadside Assistance
Towing companies often provide roadside assistance as an extra service, and this can include jump-starting your dead car, changing a flat tire, or opening the door for you. The cost of roadside assistance will depend on what kind of work is needed and how difficult it might be.
Average Costs for Towing in Canada
While the exact cost of towing will vary, here is an average breakdown of how much you can expect to pay for different towing services in Canada:
Standard Tow (Within 5-10 Miles)
A typical tow for a 5 to 10-mile radius may set you back as much as $125. The cost incorporates both the fee for the tow truck and travelling the distance. Note that some companies may charge extra for every extra mile beyond their minimum distance.
Long-Distance Tow (Over 20 Miles)
For long-distance towing, be prepared to pay a fee stacked on top of each mile travelled beyond the first tow. This could range from $2 to as high as $5 per mile, depending on the towing company and type of vehicle that’s being towed. So, if you’re getting towed 30 miles, you are looking at anywhere from $150 to $250 in total.
Heavy-Duty Tow
Even if it’s only moving a large truck or RV into place for storage, then heavy-duty towing is essential. The average cost of these services may range from $200 to $500 per trip and even more, depending on vehicle weight or the complexity involved in getting that particular car eventually back where it belongs.
Flatbed Tow
This type of tow, required for higher-end vehicles, motorcycles, and vehicles with power on all four wheels, typically costs more than a regular hook-and-chain haul. The cost for a flatbed tow generally runs in the $100-200 range, but can climb depending on how hard the vehicle is to load or where it’s going—long distances always add on extra expense.
Emergency Towing Services
Emergency towing services, such as those resulting from an accident or breakdown, will typically cost you an extra premium. You may be prepared for an extra $50-$100 or more, even just because it is off-hours and in the middle of the night out of town.
What You Need to Know About Towing Fees
Together with the base fees, other possible charges may apply:
Winching Fees
If your car needs to be pulled out of a ditch or snowbank, the tow truck may charge a winch fee. Typically, this ranges from $50-$100 and depends on how hard your vehicle is to recover.
Storage Fees
If your vehicle is carried away to the store yard because you didn’t get or couldn’t retrieve it immediately, you may incur storage fees. Storage fees typically run anywhere from $20-50 each day.
After-Hours Charges
Some towing companies charge an extra fee for service outside of regular business hours. Plan on an extra $25-75 for after-hours service, especially when it’s late at night or weekends.
Drop Fees
If you choose not to have your auto towed when the tow driver has already arrived at where you are, then this fee might be imposed. The drop cost covers the time and fuel for going out to get you. This can vary from $50-$100.
How to Select a Good Towing Service
When searching for a top-quality towing service, various things need to be taken into account:
Reputation
Find a towing company with a good name. Distributed through social networks such as Yelp, ask family and friends for recommendations and experiences, or check whether the business is registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A reputable company will be open to discussing prices and provide service promptly, which runs smoothly.
Availability
Select a towing service that operates 24/7 from its base, particularly if you find yourself in an emergency. Many towing services offer assistance at any time of day, so check that they are available just when you need them.
Affordable Towing
Compare prices among different towing services to find one that offers affordable rates. Also, note, however, that the cheapest option may not always be the best. Selecting a towing service requires balancing a low cost with quality workmanship and efficient service.
Customer Service
A good towing service treats you with courtesy and helpfulness. Check into “a company’s responsiveness”, prompt and clear communication to answer any queries you may have about them.
Conclusion
Knowing how much to tow a car can help you make better decisions during emergencies. By understanding the factors that go into towing costs, such as distance, type of vehicle, and service demands, you can save on those unexpected charges when they do come up. Always keep one important point in mind. Just remember to shop around and take a quick look at them, ask for and compare prices. Make sure you pick a towing enterprise with not-so-heavy trust in addition to cheaper charges for its use. Whether it’s standard towing, emergency towing, or heavy-duty vehicle towing, a little homework now can save you time and ultimately money in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car Short Distances?
It generally costs between $75 and $125 for a short-distance tow, usually less than five or ten miles.
Will I Be Charged Extra for Emergency Towing?
The average charge for emergency towing after normal hours or in emergencies is an extra $50 to $100.
Where Can I Find Towing Services Near Me?
You can look up “tow truck near me” or “towing near me” online to find a towing service in your area. Many towing services also provide mobile apps that make it easier for customers to schedule towing.
What’s the Best Way to Reduce Your Towing Bill?
To reduce your towing charges, use your local service, avoid having to call out extra motorists, and compare the price between several companies. Go off the regular hour rates.
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