Accidents can’t be predicted, and breakdowns are inevitable. So when it comes to getting your vehicle back on the road, you’ll need the help of a tow truck.
How much does a tow truck cost in Los Angeles? How much do tow trucks cost per mile? Will it be an expensive service, or can you find a tow truck that fits your budget? From the cost of the service to any additional fees, read on to learn how much tow trucks costs and be prepared for your next towing experience.
Factors that affect towing services in Los Angeles
To answer how much a tow truck costs, you need to check the following factors:
Towing distance
How much does a tow truck cost per mile? That’s one of the questions you should ask to determine how much a tow truck costs.
The cost of tow truck service in Los Angeles is primarily determined by the distance traveled. Generally, towing companies charge an additional fee for each tow truck cost per mile they must travel starting from their initial location.
If you want to get towed within Los Angeles city limits, the rate will most likely be lower than if you were outside the city. As such, it’s best to search for “tow truck cost near me” when researching tow truck companies and how much a tow truck costs.
Time of towing
The time of day and day of the week plays a significant role in the cost of a tow truck service. If you need a tow during rush hour or late at night, be prepared to pay more than if you could book an appointment during off-peak times. Additionally, when determining how much is the cost of a tow truck, keep in mind that some companies charge extra for after-hours services.
Type of vehicle
The type of vehicle being towed can also make a huge difference. Smaller vehicles, such as cars and pickups may only require a basic tow truck with a lighter capacity. This will typically cost less for a tow truck than larger vehicles such as RVs or buses that need more powerful trucks. Moreover, additional charges that increase the tow truck cost may apply if specialized equipment is required for certain types of vehicles.
Additional services
If you require additional services like roadside assistance or jump starts, these too can increase how much a tow truck costs. As such, you must know exactly what services you need when seeking a tow truck, as this can impact the overall cost of your service.
Average cost of a tow truck service in Los Angeles
The average tow truck cost falls between $75 and $125. This includes the initial hook-up fee, the cost of towing, and mileage fees. Other fees can be added based on the type of vehicle being towed, such as a flatbed truck or heavy-duty tow truck for larger vehicles.
Again, you need to determine how much a tow truck cost per mile so that you can ensure that you are getting the best deal for your towing needs. It’s also important to note that additional services are available from some tow companies in Los Angeles that may add tow truck rental costs beyond the base rate listed above.
A tow truck cost calculator can be a valuable tool for any driver needing towing services. These calculators provide an estimate of how much do tow trucks cost per mile based on the type of vehicle being towed and its location.
Different types of tow trucks and services
These are the different types of tow truck services:
Car towing service
The most common type of tow truck service is car towing. This involves loading a vehicle onto the back of a truck and transporting it from one place to another. Depending on the size of the tow truck, and the distance between locations, car towing can cost anywhere from $50 to $400.
Truck towing service
Heavy-duty tow trucks are bigger and stronger than light-duty ones, allowing them to pull heavier. In Los Angeles, tow truck companies typically charge by the hour rather than a flat fee for this service, which can range between $75 to $150 an hour. You should also consider the commercial tow truck insurance cost, which can add to the overall price of the service.
Emergency towing service
Emergency towing services will usually cost more than standard towing services. This is due to the urgency and difficulty of disengaging a vehicle from a tight spot.
The cost of an emergency tow will depend on the distance it needs to be towed and the type of vehicle that is being towed. If you find yourself in need of emergency towing in Los Angeles, you can expect a minimum charge of $125 and up depending on the specifics.
Motorcycle towing service
Towing a motorcycle in Los Angeles can range from $50 to over $200, depending on the type of service you need and the distance to be traveled. If you have an accident or breakdown and need your bike towed, specialized services may offer both flatbed and regular tow truck services for motorcycles.
Long-distance towing service
A long-distance towing service is the way to go when you need to move your vehicle from one city to another. The cost of this type of tow depends on the distance traveled and any additional services required, such as an extra driver or multiple trucks for huge vehicles.
Heavy construction equipment towing
If you have heavy construction equipment needing towing, you’ll likely need a specialized tow truck. How much does it cost for a tow truck that moves heavy construction equipment? Well, it varies depending on the size and weight of the load being towed and the distance it must be transported.
This type of towing service is valuable for heavy-duty jobs such as towing bulldozers, backhoes, and other large construction equipment. If you have a large construction job in Los Angeles, it may be worth considering a tow truck service for heavy-duty towing.
Flatbed towing service
How much do tow trucks cost per mile if they’re a flatbed? Flatbed towing costs are typically between $75 and $125 per hour, with an average tow distance of four miles.
This type of truck is characterized by having a flat, level platform at the back that is used to load and transport vehicles. Flatbeds are the preferred option for cars with low ground clearance, as they provide a level and stable surface that prevents scraping the bottom of the vehicle.
Valley towing
Enzo Collision offers valley towing service, which is ideal when stuck in the rugged terrains and steep inclines of Laguna Beach or Eldred Street. This service is usually more expensive but will get you out of the most challenging spots.
Valley towing can use tow trucks, like flatbeds, goosenecks, and more. This type of towing requires more skill and experience on the part of the driver, so it can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 depending on how far your vehicle needs to be towed.
Boat towing
Our towing services aren’t just for cars, trucks, and motorcycles. If you have a boat needing towing, we can help launch or retrieve it. The cost of boat towing depends on the size of your boat and other factors such as distance, water depth, and the time of day.
Tips to reduce tow truck services cost
Enlisting a tow truck service can really stretch your budget, especially if it’s an emergency that you’re dealing with. To save money on tow truck services in Los Angeles, consider these tips:
1. Check if your insurance covers the cost of a tow truck service. Be aware of the limitations of your coverage.
2. Research local tow truck service companies in Los Angeles and compare prices. Ask for a flat rate for your tow truck service if possible, as it could be more cost-effective than an hourly rate.
3. Consider purchasing towing service as part of an auto club membership or roadside assistance plan. Buying ahead can significantly reduce the cost of towing.
4. If possible, try to drive the vehicle yourself and save on tow truck fees. Of course, be sure that the vehicle is safe to drive and that you have a valid license.
5. Be mindful of the time of day, as towing fees can be higher during peak times. You can save money by scheduling your service for the off-peak hours. This is ideal if you’re not in a rush to get your vehicle to the shop.
Stay Alert and Prepared
How much does a tow truck cost? We hope we’ve given you a better understanding of the cost of tow truck services in Los Angeles. Regarding your car’s safety, being prepared and knowing what to expect can be invaluable.
Always check out the details of any service before signing up, as well as maintain an emergency fund should you find yourself needing to call on a tow truck in the future. With some research and caution, you’ll be able to make sure that your next drive goes off without a hitch.
Enzo Collision provides the best tow truck services in LA for a reasonable price. So if you ever wonder how much a tow truck costs, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll ensure you get the help you need at an affordable price.
