How much does it cost to start a towing business? Typically, it requires some specialized knowledge and skill. Also, having experience in the transportation industry will help you in this industry. Starting a towing business cost ranges from $150,000 to $2,000,000.

Considering this, Is tow truck a good business?

Purchasing a towing license and tow truck in an urban area can cost you as much as $200,000 with no towing accounts in place. Overall, starting an automotive towing business can be a terrific and profitable business venture, providing a license can be obtained or purchased at a reasonable price.

Subsequently How do I become a tow truck driver? How to become a tow truck driver

  1. Meet age requirements. Tow truck drivers must be at least 18 years old.
  2. Hold a valid license. …
  3. Maintain a clean driving record. …
  4. Pass a background check. …
  5. Complete a drug screening. …
  6. Pass a physical ability test. …
  7. Pass a vision exam. …
  8. Obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL)

How do I start a tow truck company?

If you’re ready to learn more, read on for how to start tow truck business in six steps.

  1. Step 1: Write your business plan. …
  2. Step 2: Register your business. …
  3. Step 3: Secure startup funding. …
  4. Step 4: Obtain licenses, permits, and business insurance. …
  5. Step 5: Promote your business. …
  6. Step 6: Know your responsibilities as an employer.

What does a tow truck cost?

Most tow companies charge between $50 to $125 for a five or ten-mile local tow, or a $75 hook-up fee and $2 to $4 per mile for long-distance towing. The average 40-mile tow will range from $125 to $250. Before you call a tow truck company, check your car insurance policy.

How do I start a tow truck business?

How to Start a Tow Truck Business

  1. Choose which type of tow truck business to open.
  2. Calculate your expenses and purchase equipment.
  3. Acquire funding, choose a business entity, register your business, and obtain federal and state tax ID numbers.
  4. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits.
  5. Select a location.

Is there money in towing cars?

Nationwide, tow truck drivers make $13.30 per hour, which is a $27,664 salary, but this includes drivers who work for someone else. As a tow truck business owner, you’ll be able to retain all of your profits. … Although you’ll want to make a profit, you can easily find other tow companies are undercutting your prices.

How much do tow trucks charge?

Tow truck prices depend on many different factors. Still, you can usually expect to spend a minimum of $110 to $300 as a base price. Tow truck cost and vehicle towing rates vary depending on your location. Tow trucks generally do not charge by the hour.

Do you need a CDL for a tow truck?

While there is no law stating you need a license to become a tow truck driver, the federal law — according to the United States Department of Transportation — says you must hold a commercial driver’s license, CDL, before towing more than 26,000 pounds.

Do you tip tow truck drivers?

In general, people do tip tow truck drivers, but it’s not always expected that you do. Nonetheless, tow truck drivers will greatly appreciate it if you give them a tip. … You should also consider tipping the tow truck driver if they provide great service helping you with your car.

Why are tow trucks so expensive?

In California, the towing and storage rates are agreed upon between local law enforcement agencies and the towing companies they work with. … Representatives at various towing companies agree that one of the major costs pushing up their prices is rent for the land they use to store vehicles.

Can you tow a car yourself?

No matter what towing method you choose, you’ll need a tow hitch on the tow vehicle. The tow hitch is attached to the chassis. … Tow hitches are easy to install, however. You can do it yourself, but we recommend having a professional do the work for the best results.

What do you need for a tow truck business?

When creating a business budget for a towing business, here are some recurring expenses and startup costs that you’ll want to account for:

  • Licenses and permits.
  • Purchasing tow truck(s)
  • Tow truck insurance.
  • Employee salaries.
  • Business insurance.
  • Marketing expenses.
  • Vehicle maintenance.
  • Gasoline.

How much does a tow truck make per year?

Find out what the average Tow Truck salary is

Entry-level positions start at $33,150 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $59,775 per year. $39,000 a year is how much per hour?

How much does it cost to tow a 5k?

Prices for a Tow Truck service in local areas are between $90 to $1000 (under 5 KM to 5 KM). There is generally a minimum fee you will have to pay, regardless of what distance you need your vehicle towed.

Can you call AAA without being a member?

Can I call AAA if I am not a Member? If your car breaks down or runs out of gas and you don’t have a AAA Membership, you can still call 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357) to sign up for a AAA Membership and service right away.

How heavy is a tow truck?

Light-duty tow trucks weigh between 8,600 lbs. And 10,000 lbs. These trucks can haul most types of cars with no problem and might be the most common type of tow truck you would see on the road on any given day. Medium-duty tow trucks weigh between 10,001 lbs.

Do I need a CDL for under 26000?

The federal requirement specifies that, when a vehicle has a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less, the operator does not need a CDL. … For example, a truck with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less can tow a trailer with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less and not require the operator to have a CDL under federal requirements.

Do tow truck drivers let you ride with them?

Tow Trucks Will Not Allow You To Ride With the Driver

So, when you are stranded, you need to not only call AAA and get help with your vehicle, you also need to arrange your own transportation from your break-down location to home or to the repair shop.

Can towing a car damage the transmission?

There is little to no risk involved when towing a vehicle with an automatic transmission on a flat-bed tow truck. However, if the tow operator tows the car with the drive wheels on the ground, that’s when damage can occur.

How much does State Farm cover for towing?

Yes, State Farm offers free towing to the nearest repair facility for their roadside assistance customers. State Farm roadside assistance costs around $15 per six-month policy and customers can request roadside assistance online, or by calling 1-877-627-5757.

Can a towing truck company charge whatever they want?

The towing company can charge for one-half of their regular towing fee, but cannot demand payment before releasing the vehicle if it has not yet been removed from the property.

How do tow trucks save money?

4 Ways to Save Money When You Need a Tow Truck

  1. Check with your credit card company. Many credit card providers offer additional perks to help attract new customers, with a popular option being free roadside assistance. …
  2. Get the right auto insurance. …
  3. Shop ahead. …
  4. Join an auto club.

Can towing a car in park damage it?

Can you tow a car in park? The short answer is yes, but towing a car in park can potentially cause damage if certain precautions are not taken beforehand. An automatic car in park can have the mechanical lock of the transmission broken if towed with wheels on the street.


Join our Business, Advices & Skills Community and share you ideas today !