The cost of towing a non-operational vehicle varies significantly based on location, time, and specific circumstances. The average cost for a standard tow in the United States is approximately $109, but this price can fluctuate dramatically. Towing bills are typically structured by combining a flat fee for the service with a variable charge calculated by distance.
Standard Roadside Towing Rates
A typical tow bill begins with a non-negotiable flat hook-up or service fee, which covers the cost of dispatching the truck and securing the vehicle for transport. This initial charge typically falls within a range of $50 to $150, regardless of how short the distance is. This base fee usually includes a minimal towing distance, often covering the first 5 to 10 miles of the journey. A local tow of this distance for a standard sedan generally costs between $75 and $125.
Beyond the mileage included in the initial service fee, a variable per-mile rate is applied to the remaining distance. This rate typically ranges from $2 to $7 for each additional mile the vehicle is towed. For example, a 20-mile tow often costs between $100 and $175. Companies may offer a lower per-mile rate for long-distance tows exceeding 50 miles, but the total cost will still be significantly higher.
Factors That Increase Towing Costs
The size and weight of the disabled vehicle directly influence the necessary equipment and labor, raising the base rate for larger vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks by an additional $10 to $35. Vehicles requiring heavy-duty tow trucks, such as commercial vehicles, buses, or large recreational vehicles, can incur costs starting at $150 and rising significantly based on the complexity of the job.
Towing outside of normal business hours, often defined as 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., triggers surcharges due to the reduced availability of staff and increased demand. After-hours, weekend, or holiday service can add an extra $5 to $150 to the total bill, with after-hours service commonly beginning between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. The complexity of the vehicle’s location also adds to the expense. Specialized recovery services like winching to pull a car from a ditch, mud, or snow often add an additional $50 to $200 or more for the extra labor and specialized equipment needed.
Impoundment and Storage Fees
When a vehicle is towed and taken to an impound lot, the owner is responsible for a distinct set of costs that are separate from the initial tow charge. The initial impound tow fee itself can be regulated by a municipality or county, often costing around $150 for a standard vehicle and more for larger vehicles. These charges are paid to the towing company for the transport, but the subsequent fees are paid to the storage facility or administrative authority.
The most rapidly accumulating cost is the daily storage rate, which applies for every 24-hour period the vehicle remains on the property. These daily rates typically range from $20 to $50 for standard vehicles, though they can be higher for larger vehicles.
Many jurisdictions also impose a separate administrative or release fine. This fee is charged by the police or municipality to process the release paperwork, which can be around $115 to $150. Owners must retrieve their vehicles quickly to stop the daily storage charges from accruing. Many facilities require payment in certified funds or cash before the vehicle is released.