Car breakdowns in the middle of the road are always a frustrating experience. You will never know when and where your car might break down. Regardless of the road emergency, you should be able to contact someone to assist you. A nearby towing company provides services like winching, fuel delivery, and jump-start battery service.
When searching for a towing provider, make sure their rates are competitive. Their towing charges should be reasonable. The final cost varies depending on several factors. Knowing these factors will give you an idea of your estimated bill for vehicle towing and recovery services. Continue reading below:
Vehicle Dimensions
The size and weight of your vehicle largely affect the cost of your towing service. Companies have a standard fee for 4-door sedans and mid-sized cars. However, SUVs and trucks have an additional charge.
Obviously, bigger and heavier vehicles are more difficult to haul. They usually require bigger towing trucks and equipment. For example, 4×4 vehicles, buses, and coasters are suitable for heavy-duty towing to avoid damage on the surface.
If you own a large vehicle, the cost will likely be higher. Remember to contact a towing company that offers both light-duty and medium/heavy-duty services. In addition, you should provide them with your vehicle size or send them a picture.
Vehicle Condition
When your vehicle gets into an accident, it will require special equipment for towing. This might increase the overall towing expenses because a damaged vehicle is harder to tow. Depending on the vehicle’s condition, it might need a flatbed tow truck to prevent further damage. Equipment like winch-out cables, automatic axles, and hooks will incur additional costs.
Location
Another factor is the place where your car has gone off-road. In determining the costs, towing companies consider the place of the incidence. Was it stuck in a ditch? Did your vehicle break down in a residential area or on a highway?
Towing services on a highway are more difficult because of fast-moving vehicles. Professional tow truck drivers need to be extra careful when hauling vehicles. Moreover, they need to protect other drivers while doing the job. That’s why they might charge you more if you’re stranded on a highway.
Distance
Similar to the location, the distance between the place of incident and the destination will affect the towing fees. In general, towing companies have a minimum rate of about $50 for the first 5-10 miles. The minimum base fee usually covers the gas expenses. After the base distance, they will charge $2 to $4 per mile.
The farther your location is, the higher they will charge you. Each towing provider has a different rate for each service, so make sure you request free quotes.
Time of Day
Towing and vehicle recovery within typical working hours are usually cheaper. Normal working hours are between 8 am and 5 pm. If you find yourself calling for a tow truck at night, your expenses will be higher.
The towing fees are also affected by weekends and public holidays. Towing services performed outside of normal business hours are charged at a premium rate. When it comes to emergency towing, always check with your towing service provider for help.
Type of Vehicle
Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids are more technologically advanced than traditional cars. However, they might also break down and need a tow. For electric cars, flatbed towing is the most recommended. This will prevent any kind of damage because all four wheels are off the ground. Since not a lot of companies know how EV towing works, the rates are slightly higher.
Hire Our Towing Specialists!
If you need affordable towing or roadside assistance, Allentown Towing Company is here to serve you. We are transparent in our pricing, meaning there are no hidden fees. You can trust that we will never overcharge our customers. Our goal is to bring you the most competitive and affordable rates for your towing needs.
We offer the best towing services throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding areas. Our professional team works round the clock to give you high-quality services. Aside from regular towing, count on us for jump starts, flat tires, property impounds, long-distance towing, and many more.
Feel free to get in touch with our staff for any questions about towing costs. We will get you back on the road quickly and safely!