Towing prices usually combine a hook-up or base fee, a per-mile charge, and extra charges for special equipment, winching, waiting time, after-hours service and storage. Roadside services such as jump starts or lockouts are often flat rates. Non-consent tows, such as police-ordered and private property impounds, are frequently capped by local rules, so check those limits before setting rates.
Sample rate structure
| Service | How it is usually priced |
|---|---|
| Light-duty tow | Hook-up fee plus per-mile charge |
| Flatbed tow | Hook-up fee plus per-mile charge, sometimes a flatbed fee |
| Jump start, lockout, tire change | Flat roadside rate |
| Fuel delivery | Flat rate plus fuel |
| Winching or recovery | Time-based or per-incident |
| After-hours | Added fee where allowed |
| Storage | Per day, often regulated |
| Dealer and shop transport | Account rate per tow |
Worked example: quoting on the phone
A caller needs a tow from a highway exit to a repair shop twelve miles away. Ray's dispatcher confirms the vehicle, whether it rolls and steers, and the exact location, then quotes the hook-up fee plus mileage and any after-hours charge, and states accepted payment methods. The caller agrees before the truck is sent, and the price is confirmed by text with the ETA.
Mistakes
- Quoting a price and changing it on arrival
- Exceeding local non-consent rate caps
- Refusing card payments where local rules require accepting them
- Unclear storage fees that anger owners at release
Sample pricing explanation
"Tow prices include a hook-up fee plus mileage from pickup to destination. Flatbed, winching and after-hours service may add charges. We'll quote your total before sending a truck. Roadside services have flat rates. Storage fees for impounded vehicles follow local rules."
Mistakes
- Different prices quoted by different staff
- No written rate sheet for accounts
- Fees that are not disclosed until arrival
Keeping prices healthy
Towing prices combine hook-up, mileage and special charges, within any local caps; quote before dispatch and stick to it.
What affects your price
- Distance
- Vehicle type
- Time of day
- Storage
Free tools
Common questions
Should I post tow prices online?
Posting basic rates or how pricing works builds trust. Some companies list roadside flat rates and explain tow pricing.
Are towing rates regulated?
Non-consent towing rates and storage fees are often capped locally. Consent tows may be less regulated, but check.
Should I charge after-hours fees?
Many companies do where allowed; state them when quoting.
How do motor club rates compare?
Clubs set their own rates; track your cost per call to see whether they cover it.
Do I need to post rates at the lot?
Many localities require posted rates for non-consent tows and storage; check your rules.
Can I charge for waiting time?
Many companies charge for extended waiting at a scene or destination; state it when quoting.
Should accounts get discounted rates?
Many companies offer account rates in exchange for volume; put them in writing.
Should we charge for lockouts?
Usually a flat roadside rate.
Should we offer membership plans?
Some companies do; check local rules.
Give customers a clear way to describe the job and request a quote
A quote form that asks the right questions saves back-and-forth and makes your business look organized.
See websites with quote forms