Average Towing Costs in 2026
Understanding typical towing costs helps you budget appropriately and avoid overpaying. Based on our analysis of over 10,000 towing quotes across the United States, here are the current average prices you can expect to pay.
National Average Towing Costs
| Service Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Tow (0-5 miles) | $75 - $125 |
| Local Tow (5-10 miles) | $100 - $150 |
| Medium Distance (10-25 miles) | $125 - $225 |
| Long Distance (25-50 miles) | $200 - $400 |
| Flatbed Tow (local) | $95 - $175 |
| After-Hours Service | +25% to +50% |
| Heavy-Duty (trucks, RVs) | $200 - $500+ |
Note: These are national averages. Actual prices in your area may be 20-40% higher in major metropolitan areas (NYC, LA, Chicago, SF) or 10-20% lower in rural regions. Use our towing calculator for location-specific estimates.
The towing industry has seen price increases of approximately 15-20% since 2020, driven by rising fuel costs, insurance premiums, and labor shortages. However, increased competition from app-based services has helped moderate prices in some urban areas.
Understanding Your Towing Bill
A typical towing bill consists of several components. Understanding these helps you identify fair pricing and spot potential overcharges.
Standard Fee Structure
1. Hook-Up / Base Fee ($50-$100)
This covers the driver's travel to your location, the equipment, and the labor to safely connect your vehicle to the tow truck. It's charged regardless of distance towed.
2. Per-Mile Rate ($2.50-$7.00/mile)
Charged for each mile your vehicle is transported. Standard towing runs $2.50-$4/mile; flatbed towing costs $4-$7/mile. Long-distance tows often qualify for discounted rates.
3. Time-Based Surcharges (+25-50%)
After-hours (typically 8pm-6am), weekends, and holidays often incur premium rates. This compensates for overtime pay, reduced staffing, and increased demand during emergencies.
4. Special Services (varies)
Winch-outs ($75-$200), dolly use for AWD ($25-$50), accident recovery ($100-$300), and storage fees ($25-$100/day) are additional charges for specific situations.
Sample Invoice Breakdown
Types of Towing Services
Different situations require different towing methods. Understanding your options helps you request the right service and avoid unnecessary charges.
Standard Hook Tow
The most common and affordable option. Your car's drive wheels are lifted while the others roll on the ground. Works for most front-wheel and rear-wheel drive vehicles.
Flatbed Tow
Your entire vehicle is loaded onto a flat platform and transported without any wheels touching the ground. Safest option for valuable or damaged vehicles.
Wheel-Lift Tow
Uses a metal yoke that hooks under the front or rear wheels to lift them off the ground. Faster than flatbed, more gentle than hook towing.
Heavy-Duty Tow
Specialized equipment for large vehicles including trucks, buses, RVs, and commercial vehicles. Requires trained operators and heavy-duty trucks.
Additional Roadside Services
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Jump Start | $50 - $100 |
| Flat Tire Change | $50 - $100 |
| Fuel Delivery (+ cost of fuel) | $50 - $75 |
| Lockout Service | $50 - $150 |
| Winch-Out (ditch/mud) | $75 - $250 |
| Accident Recovery (complex) | $150 - $500+ |
Factors That Affect Towing Prices
Multiple factors influence how much you'll pay for a tow. Understanding these helps you estimate costs more accurately and potentially save money.
Distance Traveled
The biggest cost factor. Each mile adds $2.50-$7 depending on tow type. A 5-mile tow might cost $90, while a 50-mile tow could exceed $300. Pro tip: Choose the nearest reputable repair shop to minimize mileage.
Time of Day
After-hours service (8pm-6am) typically adds 25-50% to the bill. Weekends and holidays may also carry premiums. If your situation isn't urgent, waiting until morning can save $30-$75.
Vehicle Type & Weight
Heavier vehicles cost more to tow. Standard cars are baseline pricing. SUVs and trucks add 10-20%. Luxury vehicles often require flatbed (25-50% more). Motorcycles typically cost less ($50-$100 local).
Location & Accessibility
Urban areas charge 20-40% more than rural regions due to traffic, parking challenges, and higher operating costs. Difficult access (parking garages, tight spaces, unpaved roads) may add $25-$100.
Special Equipment Needed
Vehicles stuck in ditches, mud, or snow require winching ($75-$200 extra). Dollies for AWD vehicles add $25-$50. Accident recovery with debris cleanup can add $100-$300.
Season & Weather
Winter months see increased demand and prices in cold-weather states (up to 30% higher during snow events). Summer heat in southern states can also spike prices due to overheating breakdowns.
Quick Tip: The single biggest way to reduce costs is minimizing distance. If possible, have your vehicle towed to the nearest trusted repair shop rather than your home or a specific dealership miles away.
How to Save Money on Towing
Towing can be expensive, but there are several strategies to reduce costs without sacrificing safety or service quality.
Check Existing Coverage First
Before calling a tow company, check if you have coverage through: auto insurance roadside assistance, AAA or similar membership, credit card benefits (Amex, some Visa cards), or your vehicle manufacturer's warranty. Many people forget they already have free or reduced-cost towing.
Get Multiple Quotes
If your situation isn't an emergency, call 2-3 local towing companies for quotes. Prices can vary by 30-50% for the same service. Ask specifically: “What's your all-in price for a [standard/flatbed] tow from [location A] to [location B]?”
Avoid After-Hours When Possible
If you're safely off the road and can wait, calling during business hours saves 25-50%. A breakdown at 11pm might cost $150 after-hours premium. Waiting until 8am could save you $40-$75.
Choose the Nearest Safe Destination
With per-mile charges of $3-$5, every mile adds up. A tow to a shop 5 miles away versus 20 miles could save $45-$75. Research nearby repair shops before your car breaks down so you know your options.
Don't Pay for Services You Don't Need
Unless you have an AWD vehicle, luxury car, or significant damage, you probably don't need a flatbed. Standard hook or wheel-lift towing is perfectly safe for most FWD and RWD vehicles on short tows.
Join AAA or Similar Program
At $64-$148/year, AAA pays for itself with just one tow. Plus membership covers multiple vehicles per household. Compare: $148 for Premier (200 free miles) vs. one 50-mile tow at $250+.
Money-Saving Summary
- • Check insurance/AAA/warranty first (potential savings: 100%)
- • Get 2-3 quotes (potential savings: 30-50%)
- • Wait for business hours if safe (potential savings: 25-50%)
- • Choose nearest shop (potential savings: $15-75+)
- • Skip flatbed unless necessary (potential savings: 25-50%)
Know Your Rights When Getting Towed
Federal and state laws protect consumers from predatory towing practices. Knowing your rights helps you avoid overcharges and dispute unfair fees.
Your Core Rights
Right to a Written Estimate
In most states, you have the right to receive a written estimate before authorizing any towing service. This should include hook-up fee, per-mile rate, estimated total, and any potential additional charges. Never authorize service without an estimate.
Right to Choose Your Destination
You can direct where your vehicle is taken—your home, a specific repair shop, or any other location. Be wary of tow operators who insist on taking your car to “their” shop, as they may have kickback arrangements.
Right to an Itemized Receipt
After service, you're entitled to a detailed receipt showing all charges. This should match your estimate. Any unauthorized charges should be disputed immediately.
Right to Pay by Your Method
Most legitimate towing companies accept multiple payment forms including credit cards. Be suspicious of cash-only operators—paying by card provides documentation and dispute rights if needed.
Right to Be Present
You may be present during the tow process, ride in the tow truck cab to your destination (in most states), and witness the unloading of your vehicle.
Non-Consensual Towing (Impound)
If your car was towed without your request (from private property, illegally parked, etc.), you have additional protections:
- •Price caps: Most states limit non-consensual tow rates (typically $150-$300 for local tows)
- •24-hour retrieval: You can often retrieve your vehicle within 24 hours with just the tow fee (no storage)
- •Signage requirements: Private property must have proper towing warnings posted
- •Dispute process: You can dispute improper tows through local consumer protection agencies
Pro Tip: Take photos of everything—damage to your vehicle, location signs, your receipts. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a complaint or insurance claim.
How to Avoid Towing Scams
Unfortunately, some unscrupulous operators take advantage of stranded motorists. Here's how to protect yourself from common towing scams.
Red Flags to Watch For
🚨 No Written Estimate
Legitimate companies always provide estimates. If a driver refuses to give you a price before loading your car, decline the service.
🚨 Cash-Only Payment
Most legitimate towing companies accept cards. Cash-only operators often charge higher rates and provide no paper trail for disputes.
🚨 Insisting on Specific Shop
Drivers who pressure you to use “their” repair shop may receive kickbacks. You have the right to choose your destination.
🚨 Drastically Higher Final Bill
If the final price is much higher than the estimate with no explanation, dispute the charges. Document everything and pay under protest if necessary.
🚨 Unmarked Vehicles
Legitimate tow trucks display company name, phone number, and DOT/license numbers. Unmarked trucks are often unlicensed or running scams.
How to Protect Yourself
- Call your own tow: Don't accept help from drivers who “just happen” to show up at your breakdown location.
- Verify licensing: Ask for their DOT number and verify it matches the truck's markings.
- Get everything in writing: Estimate, authorization form, and final receipt.
- Take photos: Document your vehicle's condition before and after the tow.
- Pay by card: Provides documentation and dispute rights through your bank.
Insurance & Roadside Assistance Options
Having coverage before you need it can save hundreds of dollars and significant stress. Here's an overview of your options.
AAA Membership Comparison
| Tier | Annual Cost | Free Towing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $64 | 5 miles | City drivers |
| Plus | $113 | 100 miles | Most drivers |
| Premier | $148 | 200 miles | Road trippers, older cars |
*Prices are approximate national averages and may vary by region.
Auto Insurance Roadside Assistance
Many auto insurers offer roadside assistance as an add-on for $10-$25 per year. Typical coverage includes:
- Towing to nearest repair shop (15-25 miles typical limit)
- Jump starts, flat tire changes, lockout service
- Fuel delivery (you pay for the fuel)
Important: Using insurance-based roadside assistance won't affect your rates—it's not considered a claim. However, verify this with your specific insurer.
Other Coverage Options
Vehicle Manufacturer Programs
Many new vehicles include complimentary roadside assistance for 3-5 years. Check your owner's manual or call your dealer. BMW, Mercedes, Toyota, Honda, and many others offer this.
Credit Card Benefits
Some premium credit cards include roadside assistance. American Express Platinum, for example, offers up to 10 miles of free towing. Check your card benefits online or call customer service.
Standalone Apps
Services like Honk and Urgently offer pay-per-use roadside assistance without membership. Prices are competitive with traditional towing companies but with app-based convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a standard tow cost in 2026?
A standard local tow (within 5-10 miles) costs between $75 and $125 on average. This includes a hook-up fee of $50-$75 plus $2-$4 per mile. Prices vary significantly by location, with urban areas typically charging 20-30% more than rural areas.
What is the average cost per mile for towing?
The national average is $2.50 to $4.00 per mile for standard towing. Flatbed towing costs $4-$7 per mile. Long-distance tows (100+ miles) may offer discounted per-mile rates of $1.50-$3.00.
Is flatbed towing worth the extra cost?
Flatbed towing costs 25-50% more but is worth it for: AWD/4WD vehicles (prevents drivetrain damage), luxury cars, vehicles with low clearance, extensive accident damage, or long-distance transport. The extra cost protects against thousands in potential damage.
How can I get the cheapest tow possible?
To minimize costs: 1) Check if you have roadside assistance through insurance, AAA, or your vehicle manufacturer, 2) Get quotes from 2-3 companies when possible, 3) Avoid after-hours service if your situation allows, 4) Choose the nearest reputable shop as your destination, 5) Ask about flat-rate pricing for local tows.
What rights do I have when getting towed?
You have the right to: 1) A written estimate before service, 2) Choose your own destination (shop or home), 3) Be present during the tow, 4) Pay by your preferred method (most accept cards), 5) Receive an itemized receipt. Many states also cap maximum rates for non-consensual tows.
Does car insurance cover towing?
It depends on your coverage. Comprehensive insurance rarely covers towing. However, many insurers offer "roadside assistance" as an add-on ($10-20/year) covering tows up to a certain distance. Check your policy or call your insurer to verify coverage before needing it.
How much does AAA towing cost?
AAA membership includes free towing: Basic ($64/year) covers 5 miles, Plus ($113/year) covers 100 miles, Premier ($148/year) covers 200 miles. Additional miles cost $3-5 each. AAA is cost-effective if you expect to need towing even once per year.
What is the most expensive type of tow?
Heavy-duty towing for commercial vehicles, RVs, or large trucks is most expensive ($200-$500+ base fee). Other costly scenarios include: winch-outs from ditches/mud ($100-$200 extra), accident recovery with special equipment ($150-$300 extra), and long-distance flatbed transport ($500-$2,000+).
Final Thoughts
Understanding towing costs empowers you to make informed decisions during what can be a stressful situation. Remember the key takeaways:
- Know your coverage before you need it—check insurance, AAA, and manufacturer warranties
- Get written estimates and compare prices when time permits
- Minimize distance to significantly reduce costs
- Document everything for protection against scams and disputes
- Know your rights as a consumer to avoid being overcharged
Use our towing cost calculator to get an instant estimate for your specific situation, or browse our state and city guides for local pricing information.