Some cars shouldn't be towed on their wheels. We connect you with independent local operators who run flatbed trucks and can quote the job before they come out.
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If your car needs to ride fully off the ground, search for flatbed towing near me and ask for a flatbed by name. WrenchLine is a free referral service that connects you with independent local tow operators. They own the trucks, do the work and set the price.
A flatbed, sometimes called a rollback, has a long bed that tilts down to the ground. The car is pulled up with a winch and strapped down. No wheels touch the road, which protects the drivetrain and any damaged parts.
When You Should Ask for a Flatbed
A standard wheel-lift tow is fine for many cars. But some vehicles can be harmed if two wheels spin on the road during a tow. Ask for a flatbed if any of these apply.
- All-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with no neutral-tow option.
- Electric or hybrid vehicle. Many owner’s manuals say to tow with all wheels off the ground.
- Lowered, sports or classic car with little ground clearance.
- Crash damage to wheels, axles, steering or suspension.
- Motorcycles, scooters and small trailers.
- A car that has to travel a long way or will be stored for a while.
If you’re not sure which type your car needs, tell the provider your year, make and model. They can let you know before they send a truck.
What Flatbed Towing Near Me Involves
The driver positions the truck in front of or behind the car and tilts the bed down. The car is winched up slowly, then secured at each wheel with straps or chains.
If the car won’t roll because of a locked wheel or damage, the driver may use wheel dollies or skates to move it onto the bed. That can add a little time and cost.
Flatbeds are longer than other tow trucks. They need space to load, so tight garages, narrow streets and low parking decks can be a problem. Mention these when you call.
Motorcycles ride on a flatbed too. The driver uses a wheel chock and soft straps so the bike stays upright without scratching the paint. Tell the provider if your bike has a fairing or low exhaust.
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Have your location and vehicle details ready. Ask for the full price before any work starts.
Call (555) 010-2411How to Prepare Before You Call
- Check your owner’s manual for a towing section. It often says whether a flatbed is required.
- Know if the car can be shifted into neutral and if the parking brake will release.
- Measure or describe any low clearance, such as a parking garage height.
- Remove loose items from the truck bed or roof racks.
- Have the drop-off address ready and confirm the shop will accept the car.
- Ask for the total price, including the hookup fee and per-mile charge.
Flatbed vs Wheel-Lift: Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
A flatbed often costs a bit more than a wheel-lift tow. For a simple front-wheel-drive car going a short distance, a wheel-lift tow is usually fine.
For cars where towing on the wheels could hurt the transmission, motor or damaged parts, the added cost is small compared to a repair bill. When in doubt, tell the provider your year, make and model and let them advise you.
If you have roadside coverage through your insurer or a membership, you can call them directly. If you don’t, or you’d rather not wait on a claim line, we can connect you with an independent local provider.
It also helps to know that a flatbed can double as a small moving tool. Some people use one to move a project car, a car that failed inspection or a vehicle bought at an auction.
Typical Flatbed Towing costs
Frequently asked questions
Does my AWD car need a flatbed?
In most cases, yes. Towing an all-wheel-drive car with two wheels on the ground can strain the drivetrain. Check your owner's manual and tell the provider your drivetrain when you call.
Can a flatbed tow an electric car?
Yes, and it's often the method owner's manuals recommend. Let the provider know it's an EV so they can plan for the car's weight and any special tow mode steps.
Is flatbed towing more expensive?
Often by a small amount. Local flatbed tows commonly run $100 to $250. The final price depends on distance, time of day and how easy the car is to load.
Can a flatbed get into a parking garage?
Usually not. Flatbeds are tall and long, so most can't enter covered garages. The provider may use a smaller truck or dollies to bring the car out first, so describe the spot when you call.
Can I ride along in a flatbed truck?
Many flatbeds have room for one or two passengers, but it depends on the operator. Ask when you call so you can plan your ride.
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Have your location and vehicle details ready. Ask for the full price before any work starts.
Call (555) 010-2411WrenchLine is a free referral service. We are not a repair shop, towing company or locksmith and do not perform any services. Calls are connected to independent, third-party providers who set their own prices. Calls may be recorded. Not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer, insurer or motor club. [Legal business name] · [Street address, City, ST ZIP]