Start here
Quick, low-risk steps
- Call emergency services if the vehicle is in a dangerous position or there are injuries.
- Record your vehicle details: make, model, weight class, and condition of keys, wheels, and steering.
- Ask each towing provider for a breakdown of base charge, included miles, per-mile rate, and any surcharges.
- Confirm the type of equipment (flatbed or wheel-lift) and whether it suits your vehicle.
- Get the total authorization amount and cancellation policy in writing before the tow begins.
- Note the estimated arrival time and destination address.
How to Use This Checklist
This checklist is a private worksheet to help you gather and compare information from different towing companies. It is not a quote generator or a recommendation tool. You can use it on your own device to note down what each provider tells you.
The checklist covers common cost factors and service details. Not every item will apply to your situation. Focus on the items that matter for your vehicle and the type of tow you need.
- Open the checklist on your phone or print it before calling for quotes.
- Fill in one column per towing company you contact.
- Ask each provider the same questions so you can compare fairly.
- Do not rely on the checklist alone—always confirm details directly with the provider.
- Keep your completed checklist as a record of what was quoted.
What the Checklist Covers
The checklist includes fields for the base or hookup charge, which is the fee just to send the truck and attach your vehicle. It also covers the number of miles included in that base price and the cost for each additional mile.
You will find items for special equipment like a flatbed or wheel-lift, and for extra services such as winching, recovery from a ditch, or after-hours calls. There are also fields to note the vehicle’s weight class, condition of keys and wheels, and the destination address.
- Base or hookup charge
- Included miles and per-mile rate
- Vehicle weight class and equipment type
- Extra fees for winching, recovery, or after-hours service
- Total authorization amount and cancellation policy
Questions to Ask Each Provider
When you call a towing company, use the checklist to guide your conversation. Ask for a clear breakdown of all charges. Do not assume anything is included unless the provider says so.
Some important questions: Is there a separate charge for the truck just to come out? How many miles are included? What happens if the tow goes over the included miles? Are there extra fees for nights, weekends, or holidays? What type of truck will be used, and is it right for my vehicle?
- What is the total price I will pay, including all fees?
- How many miles are included, and what is the per-mile charge after that?
- Do you use a flatbed or wheel-lift, and is that safe for my car?
- Are there any extra charges for my situation (e.g., ditch, no keys, flat tires)?
- What is your cancellation policy if I change my mind before you arrive?
Limitations of This Tool
This checklist does not provide price estimates, local averages, or company recommendations. It is only a worksheet to help you organize information you get from towing providers. The final price may differ from what you write down if the situation changes or if there was a misunderstanding.
Always get the total price and service details in writing (such as a text or email) before you authorize the tow. If a provider will not give a clear breakdown, consider calling another company. This tool is not a substitute for professional advice.
- No price estimates or local averages are provided.
- The checklist does not recommend or rank towing companies.
- You must verify all details directly with the provider.
- Written confirmation of the total price is strongly advised.
- This tool is for personal use only and has no legal weight.
Private worksheet
Tow Price and Service Scope Comparison Checklist: private worksheet
Check items as you confirm them. Your selections and notes stay in this browser and are not submitted to us. This worksheet does not diagnose the problem or replace an on-site professional.
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
Does this checklist give me a tow price?
No. This checklist helps you compare quotes from different towing companies. It does not provide price estimates or tell you what a tow should cost.
Can I use this checklist instead of calling a tow company?
No. You must contact towing providers directly to get quotes and authorize service. The checklist is only a tool to help you organize the information they give you.
What if a company won’t give me a price breakdown?
If a provider refuses to give a clear breakdown of charges, you may want to call another company. Always get the total price and service details in writing before you agree to the tow.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- Move Over — It's the LawNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Roadside responder safety; follow police and road-authority instructions.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.