Selecting an experienced towing company is key for vehicle safety. If unsure, get recommendations from friends and family.
Be certain that you understand their rates and any additional costs (tolls, taxes, etc).
When marketing your towing business, target local businesses and law enforcement agencies with tailored pitches.
1. How Much Will It Cost?
No matter whether it is for personal or professional reasons, knowing how much towing will cost is vitally important. A reliable towing company should communicate any and all associated fees clearly to their customers.
Towing companies often charge various fees, from per-mile charges and hook-up fees, to base service fees. Be wary of companies that promise lower upfront rates only to add on costly per-mile rates later.
There are ways to save on towing services. Most auto insurance policies cover roadside assistance and towing expenses; or you could join AAA membership and get coverage that will save money and give peace of mind in case of vehicle breakdown. Having such coverage could prevent costly bills down the line.
2. Do You Offer Roadside Assistance?
Car trouble can be stressful enough without worrying about how you will get back home. Therefore, it’s advisable to inquire whether or not your towing company offers roadside assistance services as soon as possible.
Most legitimate towing companies offer some sort of roadside assistance, from fuel refills to locksmith services. It’s wise to inquire about such offerings as they could save both time and money down the line.
As part of your research process, it’s wise to inquire as to whether or not the towing service offers 24-hour customer service helpline availability; this will ensure they will be available when needed most in unpredictable weather environments. This is especially important if living in such areas can bring unexpected weather conditions.
3. How Long Will It Take?
When your vehicle fails to start in the middle of nowhere, knowing how long it will take a tow truck to arrive is critical to choosing the appropriate company for you. Knowing this will enable you to make an informed decision.
Make sure that you inquire about their pricing structure; some companies require upfront payments while others charge after completion of work. By understanding this information in advance, it can protect you from getting taken advantage of by untrustworthy towing firms.
Make sure that any additional fees, such as surcharges, tolls, taxes and drop off location fees, are disclosed so you’re not surprised by any unexpected costs.
4. Are You Fully Insured?
Your car may encounter numerous issues, from running out of gas and developing flat tires, to breaking down completely after an accident. When this occurs, finding a fast and dependable towing service that can assist is paramount to staying safe on the roads.
One of the key questions when hiring a towing company should be whether they are fully insured. You do not want a firm who could take advantage of you during an already stressful situation.
Make sure the towing company you select is licensed in your state; this can easily be accomplished online via searching for their license number. Furthermore, read their customer reviews so you can gauge their experience level.
5. What Types of Tow Trucks Do You Have?
Vehicles need to be towed when they break down, so finding a reputable towing company is important. Legitimate towing companies should have trucks capable of towing different kinds of cars and vans. Furthermore, they should provide you with an estimate for costs as well as forms of payment they accept.
Flatbed tow trucks are among the most frequently seen tow vehicles, often boasting long beds with flat tops for versatility in use. Some are even equipped with hydraulic systems so as to raise and lower their flatbed.
Other tow trucks available for larger vehicles such as semi-trucks and buses include wheel lift and integrated tow trucks with wheel lift mechanisms and integrated winches, making towing easier while helping prevent damage to the vehicle being hauled.
6. What Kind of Vehicles Can You Tow?
If your vehicle requires special handling, such as an electric or hybrid car, it is imperative to find out which vehicles the towing company can tow. Otherwise, hiring one that doesn’t possess adequate equipment could result in more expensive repairs over time.
As many mechanics who work on cars and trucks also rely on them as daily drivers, it’s crucial that towing companies can accommodate various vehicle types. Some can handle full-sized body-on-frame SUVs while others may only offer tow service for compact vehicles.
Some towing companies will text or email when they are near your vehicle, or send pictures of technicians who will assist. This is an excellent way to make sure you’re working with an authentic and legitimate company.
7. Are There Any Additional Fees?
Ask the towing company whether there are any additional fees such as surcharges, tolls, taxes or drop off location fees that could increase the total bill and prevent any surprises later. This way you won’t get caught off guard with unexpected costs at the end of the process.
Check how long a towing company has been in business as this will provide an indication of their experience and ability to manage your situation effectively.
Be sure to ask the company what types of trucks are available – nothing worse than calling for assistance with your car only to find that the towing company’s truck doesn’t match up well with it! Inquiring early will save time and money; asking this question early might even prevent needing roadside assistance altogether!