WHAT DO MOST TOWING COMPANIES CHARGE?

Factors Influencing Towing Cost Charges

Towing company fees will vary according to the level of service and assistance you require. The more resources that are used, the higher the price is likely to be. Here is a breakdown of some of the main factors of tow truck hire and how they affect the fees charged:

Distance Traveled

One of the biggest factors influencing tow truck fees is the distance that you need the car to travel. The further they need to drive to pick up the car, and the longer the journey to transport your vehicle – the more you can expect to be quoted.

Type of Vehicle

The larger your vehicle, the more it will cost to transport safely. So, tow truck companies charge more for towing larger cars, such as SUVs and trucks, than smaller vehicles.

Time of Day or Night

The larger your vehicle, the more it will cost to transport safely. So, tow truck companies charge more for towing larger cars, such as SUVs and trucks, than smaller vehicles.

The Type of Tow Truck Utilized

The fees of tow truck companies will also be influenced by the type of tow truck needed to complete the job. A flatbed tow truck, for example, is often best for long-distance journeys and transporting expensive vehicles and is priced accordingly. For most local towing jobs, a wheel lift tow truck will do the job and is generally the more affordable option. Hook and chain tow trucks are another cheaper option when it comes to towing.

Difficulty of Pick Up

As you can imagine, a tow company will need to spend more time and effort recovering a car from the ditch in comparison to picking up a vehicle from the roadside. So, if your car needs extra recovery assistance, you can expect a towing company to charge more.

Hidden Fees to Look Out for When Hiring Tow Trucks

When you hire a tow truck company, it is essential that you have a clear idea of any potential hidden fees that may increase the amount that a tow truck company charges. Here is a quick breakdown of some of the hidden fees to watch out for:

Hook Up Fees

There may be an added basic fee for attaching your car to the tow truck. This fee is applied to cover the labor and equipment use required during the process. The distance towed will not affect this as a standard base charge. 

Mileage Surcharge

If you are hiring a tow truck for a long-distance tow, then you should have a clear idea of any mileage surcharge. The surcharge can vary according to the type of tow truck hired, the region, and the distance to be traveled. So, make sure you have a clear idea of how this charge will apply before agreeing to hire a towing company.

After Hours Fees

As we detailed above, tow truck companies charge extra fees for working at night, on weekends, and during holidays. If you need assistance outside of working hours, ensure you have a clear idea of how this will affect the towing cost when hiring a truck.

Vehicle Storage Fees

Most companies charge a fee to store your vehicle on their lot. This fee can build up quickly if you need to delay picking up your vehicle. If you think you will need to store your car for a few days, make sure to ask the towing company if there are any grace days before charges are applied. And have a clear idea of what daily fees are charged.

Does My Car Insurance Cover Towing Company Charges?

Many auto insurance companies include roadside assistance coverage for towing service charges. However, it is essential that you properly review your insurance policy to have a clear understanding of what is included. The type of coverage will vary, with different policies having limits for the amounts charged or the number of miles the car is towed. If tow truck charges exceed this limit, you will be responsible for paying the difference.

Is The Cost of a Tow Truck Included in My Roadside Assistance Cover?

Many roadside assistance services will have tow truck coverage included in their policies. As with car insurance packages, this coverage will usually include a limit on the amount a towing company charges or the distance traveled. Make sure you have a clear idea of what your car insurance covers when arranging for a tow service.

Questions You Should Ask When Hiring a Tow Truck Company

Now you should have a clearer idea of the answer to "What Do Most Towing Companies Charge in the US?". So, let's finish up with a list of the questions you need to ask when hiring a tow company. These should help you to have a clear idea of the cost of the service and avoid any nasty surprises when you get your bill.

1. What is your base fee for towing?
2. How much do you charge per mile beyond the initial distance? When does this start to apply? 
3. Are there additional fees for towing at night, on weekends, or on holidays?
4. Do you charge hook-up fees in addition to towing costs?
5. Do you offer any guarantees or insurance for towed vehicles?

Ensuring you have a clear idea of exactly what charges and fees a towing company will apply will help you make the best choice in picking a company that suits your needs and is charging fees that fit your budget.