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Long Distance Towing Rates: Cost to Tow a Car & Towing Service
Looking to tow a car across states or from coast to coast? Long distance towing can be a complex process—one that involves more than just hooking up your vehicle to a tow truck. From choosing the right towing service and understanding the towing rates, to evaluating the most efficient long distance towing methods, there’s a lot to consider. Whether you’re relocating, selling a vehicle, or need emergency transport, knowing how to tow a car far-off locations the right way can save you time, money, and headaches. In this complete guide, we’ll break down the different types of towing services, compare options like flatbed tow and auto transport, explore the average towing cost per mile, and help you determine the cheapest way to tow a car long distance all with your peace of mind in focus.
Long Distance Towing Options: What Are Your Choices?
When it comes to moving a vehicle across long distances, not all towing methods are created equal. Whether you need to ship a car across the country or require a reliable long-distance towing service, each option presents unique advantages, costs, and use cases. From flatbed tow trucks to professional auto transport carriers, the method you choose can significantly impact not only your budget but also the safety and condition of your vehicle upon delivery. Understanding the differences between these services will help you make the best choice based on your vehicle type, travel distance, urgency, and overall towing needs.
1. Professional Long-Distance Towing Service
Hiring an auto transport company is often the most affordable and secure way to move your car over long distances. These companies use specialized carriers either open or enclosed to safely move your vehicle alongside others, lowering the overall cost.
Benefits:
- Lower long distance towing cost thanks to shared loads
- Door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal service
- Safe, damage-free transport without wear and tear
Best for: Moving standard vehicles across states or coast-to-coast routes.
2. Flatbed Tow Truck Services
A flatbed tow truck offers maximum safety, especially for luxury, exotic, or non-running vehicles. The car sits entirely on a platform, keeping it off the road.
Pros:
- Excellent for luxury or classic cars
- No tire wear or road exposure
Cons:
- Higher towing rate great distances
- Less availability for cross-country routes
Best for: High-value or low-clearance vehicles that need added protection.
3. DIY Long Distance Car Towing (Self-Tow Using a Trailer)
Many drivers consider towing the vehicle themselves using a rented trailer. While this may seem like the cheapest way to tow, hidden costs can add up quickly.
Estimated Costs:
- Trailer rental: $350 – $800
- Fuel: $400 – $700
- Food, lodging, and tolls: $200 – $400
- Total cost of towing: $1,000 – $1,600+
Risks Involved:
- Increased chance of vehicle damage
- Time-consuming and physically demanding
- Limited insurance coverage
Best for: Short to mid-range distances when a second vehicle and time are available.
Understanding the Cost to Tow a Car Long Distance
Several factors impact the cost to tow a car long distance, including distance, vehicle size, and towing method. Here’s what to keep in mind when budgeting for your long-distance tow.
Average Towing Cost Per Mile
- Local tow (under 100 miles): $2 – $4 per mile
- Long-distance towing (100+ miles): $0.75 – $1 per mile
For example, towing a car 500 miles using a professional long-distance towing service can cost anywhere from $500 to $900, depending on other variables.
What Affects Long Distance Towing Rates?
- Vehicle size and weight
- Tow truck type (flatbed, hook and chain, wheel-lift)
- Distance and delivery location
- Urgency or expedited service needs
- Insurance and added coverage options
Why Auto Transport Is Usually the Cheapest Option
Professional auto transport services can dramatically reduce your tow costs, especially over far-off locations . By sharing space with other vehicles on a single carrier, the cost per mile drops significantly, and your car arrives safely without added mileage or damage.
Additional Perks:
- Nationwide service availability
- Safe handling by experienced tow truck drivers
- Optional enclosed shipping for added protection
- Instant car shipping quotes available online
Choose the Right Towing Service
When selecting a long-distance towing company, it’s essential to evaluate several key factors especially since not all companies offer the same level of reliability, pricing, or vehicle handling expertise. The right provider should be transparent about the cost of towing a car, offer flexible service options, and operate a fleet equipped with the appropriate type of tow truck for your specific needs.
How to Choose Wisely:
- Verify DOT registration, licensing, and insurance coverage
- Review customer testimonials and satisfaction ratings
- Ask what types of tow trucks are available (flatbed, wheel-lift, etc.)
- Clarify whether companies offer enclosed or open carrier options
- Request a detailed breakdown of the total cost of towing a car
- Confirm delivery timeframes and pickup flexibility based on your schedule
Pro Tip: Use an online towing cost estimator to compare rates and avoid hidden fees before committing to a service.
Why Safemile Auto Transport Is the Smart Choice
At Safemile Auto Transport, we specialize in safe, affordable, and professional long-distance car towing services across all 50 states. With 24/7 support, real-time tracking, and damage-free delivery on 99.8% of transports, we’re proud to offer one of the highest-rated services in the nation.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Competitive pricing with no upfront payment required
- Fully insured, licensed, and bonded drivers
- Real-time tracking and dedicated support
- Thousands of successful deliveries each year
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to tow a car 100 miles?
On average, expect to pay between $100 and $400 for a 100-mile tow, depending on the towing method used and the type of vehicle.
2. What is the cheapest way to tow a car long-distance?
Hiring a professional auto transport company with open carrier service is typically the cheapest and most efficient way to tow a car long-distance.
3. Does insurance cover the cost to car transport?
Some auto insurance policies offer towing coverage, but not all cover long-distance towing. Check with your provider for specific details.
4. Is flatbed towing better for long-distances?
Yes, flatbed towing offers better protection for vehicles over long-distances, especially for luxury or non-operable cars, though it tends to cost more.
5. Can I tow my car myself across states?
You can, but it often ends up being more expensive and riskier due to fuel, lodging, rental, and potential vehicle damage. DIY towing is best for short distances.