Broke down far from home or need a car moved across the state? We connect you with independent operators who handle long hauls and can price the trip up front.
Call (877) 360-4657Free to call · Connects you with an independent local provider
Long distance towing moves a car much farther than a normal local tow, often 50 miles or more. WrenchLine is a free referral service. We connect you with independent local tow operators who take long trips and set their own prices.
People call for long hauls when a car breaks down on a road trip, when they buy a car that doesn’t run, or when they want the car fixed by a shop back home. Planning a few details ahead can save you money.
When Long Distance Towing Makes Sense
Some people also use long distance towing to move a car to a body shop after a crash, or to bring a stored car back after months away.
- Your car broke down while traveling and you want it repaired near home.
- You bought a non-running car from a private seller in another city.
- You trust one specific shop or need a specialist for your vehicle.
- You’re moving and a car can’t be driven the whole way.
- Local repair would take too long, and you need to get home.
What Long Distance Towing Involves
Most long hauls use a flatbed, so the car rides with all four wheels off the road. That protects the drivetrain over many miles.
The provider will want the pickup and drop-off addresses, your vehicle details, and who will be at each end with keys. Some drivers leave the same day. Others plan the trip for a set time.
Pricing is usually a base fee plus a per-mile rate. Some operators also charge for the return trip, tolls or an overnight stop on very long routes. Get the full price in writing, or at least written on the receipt, before the car leaves.
Ask how the provider handles the car if they arrive at the destination after hours. Some will wait, some will hold the car overnight, and some can drop the keys in a shop’s key box.
Talk to a local provider now
Have your location and vehicle details ready. Ask for the full price before any work starts.
Call (877) 360-4657How to Prepare Before You Call
Leave about a quarter tank of fuel or some charge in the battery. The receiving shop may need to move the car once it arrives, and very low levels can make that harder.
- Have both full addresses, including ZIP codes.
- Know the year, make and model, and whether it’s AWD or electric.
- Confirm the receiving shop or person will be there to accept the car.
- Remove valuables, toll tags and loose items from the car.
- Take photos of all sides of the car before it’s loaded.
- Ask if you can ride along, or plan your own way to the destination.
Is Long Distance Towing Worth It vs Local Repair?
A long tow can cost several hundred dollars or more. Compare that with getting the car fixed near where it broke down. For a simple repair, a local shop may be cheaper.
For a big repair, a shop you trust at home may be worth the tow, especially if you’ll need follow-up visits. For very long moves of a running car, an auto transport carrier may cost less per mile, but it can take days to schedule.
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.
If you’re far from home, you can also call to be connected with an independent local repair shop near the breakdown. Get a repair estimate there, then compare it with the cost of towing the car home.
Typical Long Distance Towing for Cars and Trucks costs
Frequently asked questions
How much does long distance towing cost?
Many operators charge a base fee plus about $2 to $5 per mile on long trips. A 100-mile tow often lands between $250 and $600. The final price depends on distance, truck type and timing.
Can a tow truck take my car to another state?
Yes, many operators will cross state lines. Some prefer to stay within a set range. Tell the provider the full route when you call so they can confirm.
Is towing cheaper than auto transport?
For shorter long trips, often under a few hundred miles, towing can be quicker and competitive in price. For cross-country moves, transport carriers are usually cheaper per mile but take longer to schedule.
Should I leave belongings in the car?
It's best to take valuables and important papers with you. Remove toll tags so you don't get charged along the route.
Can I ride with my car on a long distance tow?
Some operators allow one passenger, which can save you a separate trip. Others don't, because of insurance rules or truck space. Ask when you call so you can plan your own travel if needed.
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Have your location and vehicle details ready. Ask for the full price before any work starts.
Call (877) 360-4657WrenchLine 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]