When your car breaks down on the side of the road, it’s the last thing you need to worry about—especially when it comes to the cost of towing. Whether you’re stranded in the middle of a busy street or need a vehicle towed from your driveway, understanding towing costs can help you prepare and make informed decisions. But with so many variables in play, it’s not always clear how much towing will actually set you back.
In this post, we’ll break down the typical factors that influence towing costs and give you a simple price guide. So, if you’re wondering, “How much does towing cost?”—we’ve got you covered!
1. Distance Is Key: Local vs. Long-Distance Towing
One of the biggest factors influencing towing cost is the distance your vehicle needs to be towed. Generally, the shorter the distance, the lower the cost.
- Local Towing: For short distances, typically under 10-15 kilometres, you’ll usually pay a flat fee or a basic hook-up charge. Expect prices to range from $70 to $150, depending on your location and the towing company.
- Long-Distance Towing: If your car needs to be towed further, the cost can go up significantly. For long-distance tows (over 50 kilometres), the rate may be calculated per kilometre, typically ranging from $2 to $5 per kilometre. So, for example, a 100-kilometre tow could cost anywhere from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the towing service.
2. Type of Vehicle Being Towed
The type of vehicle you need to tow plays a role in the cost as well. Standard cars are typically cheaper to tow than larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, or vans. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Standard Cars: Towing a regular sedan or hatchback is usually more affordable, with prices starting at around $70 to $150 for a local tow.
- Trucks and SUVs: Larger vehicles, such as trucks, vans, and SUVs, may incur higher towing charges due to their weight and size. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250 or more for a local tow.
- Motorcycles: Towing a motorcycle is usually cheaper than towing a car, with prices ranging from $50 to $100 for a local tow.
3. Time of Day and Towing Service Availability
Towing services may have different rates depending on the time of day or week you require their help. Many companies offer 24/7 towing, but if you need a tow late at night, on weekends, or during public holidays, you might face additional charges.
- Standard Hours: If you’re having your car towed during normal business hours (usually 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays), you’ll typically pay the base towing rate.
- After-Hours Towing: Late-night, weekend, or holiday towing services can sometimes add a premium of $50 to $100 on top of the base rate. This is often called an “after-hours fee.”
4. Towing Method
The method used to tow your vehicle also affects the cost. Some vehicles are easier to tow than others, and the method of towing may depend on the vehicle’s condition and type.
- Flatbed Towing: Flatbed towing is often used for vehicles that have broken down or are non-operational, as it involves loading the car onto a flatbed truck. This method is generally more expensive than traditional towing, and you can expect to pay an additional $50 to $100 for flatbed service.
- Wheel-Lift Towing: Wheel-lift towing involves lifting the front or rear wheels of the car off the ground and towing it that way. This is a less expensive option and usually comes at a lower price point than flatbed towing.
5. Additional Costs and Fees
There may be other factors or services that impact the total cost of your tow. Here are a few things to consider:
- Recovery Fees: If your car is stuck in a difficult-to-reach area (e.g., a ditch or off-road location), there could be an additional recovery fee. This could range from $100 to $200, depending on how challenging the recovery is.
- Storage Fees: If your car needs to be stored for a period of time before you can pick it up, towing companies may charge a daily storage fee, often ranging from $20 to $50 per day.
- Fuel Surcharges: Some towing companies may include fuel surcharges, especially for long-distance tows or areas far from their base.
6. Insurance Coverage
Many people wonder if their car insurance can help with towing costs. In some cases, yes! Some auto insurance policies include roadside assistance coverage, which may cover towing expenses up to a certain limit. If you have this coverage, check with your insurance provider to see if towing costs are included.
If you don’t have roadside assistance, you may want to consider adding it to your policy. It’s often available as an affordable add-on and can save you from a costly tow in the future.
How Much Does Towing Cost on Average?
In summary, towing costs can vary significantly depending on factors like distance, vehicle type, time of day, and service method. Here’s a quick reference guide for average costs:
- Local Tow (Standard Car): $70 – $150
- Long-Distance Tow (100km): $200 – $500+
- Larger Vehicles (SUV/Truck): $100 – $250+
- Motorcycle Tow: $50 – $100
- After-Hours Service: +$50 – $100
Final Thoughts
While we can’t predict the exact towing cost for every situation, understanding the factors that affect pricing can help you be better prepared. Whether you need a quick local tow or a long-distance service, knowing what to expect can help ease the stress of dealing with a breakdown. And remember, it’s always a good idea to check with your towing provider for a clear, upfront quote before you book a service.
At Reservoir Towing, we’re committed to offering transparent, affordable towing services whenever you need us. If you ever find yourself needing a tow, don’t hesitate to give us a call—we’re here to help!
If you are in Essendon, Victoria 3040, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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