When you’re planning to move a vehicle beyond your local area, a reliable long distance towing quote makes all the difference. Whether your car won’t start in another city, you’re relocating, or you’ve purchased a vehicle that needs transport, long-haul towing is a specialized service that requires the right equipment, route planning, and experienced operators.
This guide explains what goes into long distance towing quotes, what information you’ll be asked for, and how to make sure the estimate you receive is accurate.
What is long distance towing?
Long distance towing generally means transporting a vehicle outside of a typical local tow range—often between cities, across regions, or to a different part of the province. Compared with short local tows, long-haul transport involves:
Planning safe loading and unloading at both ends
Choosing the right truck setup for stability over long miles
Securing the vehicle for highway travel
Coordinating timing so your drop-off is smooth
If you’re looking for service details, see TowSquad’s long-haul towing options and coverage.
What affects long distance towing quotes?
Pricing for long-haul tows isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here are the most common factors that influence a quote.
Distance and route complexity
Mileage is a primary cost driver, but routes matter too. Mountain passes, ferry segments, remote access roads, and traffic-heavy corridors can affect the time and logistics required.
Vehicle type and condition
Quotes can change depending on whether your vehicle:
Is a standard passenger car
Has low clearance or requires special loading
Is inoperable and needs winching or extra handling
For larger vehicles and specialty equipment, you may need a higher-capacity tow setup. If that applies to you, review heavy-duty towing capabilities.
Tow method (flatbed vs. other configurations)
For long distances, flatbed towing is often recommended because it reduces wear on the vehicle and offers stable, secure transport.
If you want to understand why flatbeds are commonly used for longer routes, check flatbed transport for safer long-distance moves.
Specialty vehicles
Some vehicles require specialized handling and tie-down procedures, such as motorcycles or certain electric vehicles.
For bikes, see motorcycle-friendly towing and secure transport
For EVs, see electric vehicle towing considerations
Timing and urgency
Same-day, late-night, and after-hours bookings can affect pricing. If you need immediate dispatch due to an unexpected breakdown, visit emergency towing help when timing matters.
What information you’ll need to request a quote
The fastest way to get an accurate long distance towing quote is to have these details ready:
Pickup location (address or nearest intersection)
Drop-off location
Vehicle make, model, and year
Vehicle condition (drivable or not)
Any special circumstances (low clearance, underground parking, locked steering, etc.)
For situations involving tight clearances or parkades, TowSquad offers a dedicated solution—see towing from underground or low-clearance areas.
Estimated Costs and Fee Breakdown
Prices for long distance towing vary based on vehicle size, distance, and service requirements. While exact quotes are always customized, the table below shows typical estimated ranges to help you understand how pricing is commonly structured in the towing industry.
| Service Component | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| Hookup / Base Fee | $75 – $250 (CAD) |
| Per Kilometer Rate | $2.50 – $4.50 (CAD) |
| Per Mile Rate | $3.00 – $7.00 (USD) |
| Long-Haul Transport (500+ miles) | $0.40 – $1.00 per mile |
These figures are provided as general guidance only. Actual long distance towing quotes depend on route conditions, vehicle type, towing method, and timing. For an exact price, a personalized quote based on your pickup and drop-off locations is always recommended.
Typical Local Towing and Roadside Pricing
Below is a quick breakdown of typical towing and roadside service pricing. These rates help set expectations and are commonly used for local jobs. Final pricing may vary depending on distance, vehicle condition, access, and timing.
| Service | Typical Price |
| Local Tow (hook-up + first ~5–6 km) | $75, then $3 per km |
| Fuel Surcharge | $10 – $15 (based on distance) |
| Battery Jump Start | $65 |
| Mobile Tire Change | $80 |
| Fuel Delivery | $40 |
| Vehicle Lockout Service | $95 |
| Winch or Recovery Service | $100+ depending on difficulty |
| Flatbed or Equipment Transport | $150+ |
All prices are listed before tax. After-hours, late-night, or holiday service may include a small additional surcharge based on dispatch timing.
Avoid common quote surprises
A trustworthy estimate should be clear about what’s included. To avoid unexpected changes, confirm:
Whether the quote includes all loading and unloading requirements
If there are extra considerations for inoperable vehicles
Any access issues at the pickup or drop-off location
Whether you’ll need a tow even if you’re not physically present
If you’re coordinating a pickup without being on-site, TowSquad can help—read about arranging a tow when you can’t be there.
Long distance towing vs. roadside help: which do you need?
Not every situation requires a long-haul tow. Sometimes the fastest and most affordable solution is roadside assistance.
If your vehicle is close to operating again, TowSquad’s roadside services may resolve the issue on-site:
You can view the full set of options on TowSquad roadside assistance services.
Why choosing the right towing provider matters for long distances
A long-distance tow is more than simply hooking up and driving. The quality of the equipment, securement process, and operator experience can directly affect vehicle safety during transport.
TowSquad provides professional towing support across service categories—see the full range of solutions on TowSquad towing services.
Request a long distance towing quote
If you need to move a vehicle between cities or across the region, start with a quote that’s based on the details that matter: route, vehicle type, condition, and tow method.
For more information about scheduling and service coverage, visit TowSquad long distance towing and request a quote with your pickup and drop-off details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Long Distance Towing Quotes
How much does long distance towing usually cost?
Long distance towing costs vary based on distance, vehicle type, towing method, and timing. Because every route and vehicle is different, the most accurate way to determine pricing is to request a custom quote using your pickup and drop-off locations.
Are long distance towing quotes flat-rate or mileage-based?
Most long distance towing quotes are based on mileage, combined with factors such as vehicle condition, equipment required, and route complexity. A professional quote should clearly explain what is included so there are no surprises.
Is flatbed towing required for long distance transport?
While not always mandatory, flatbed towing is strongly recommended for long-distance moves. It minimizes wear on your vehicle and provides added stability and protection during extended highway travel.
Can you tow a non-running vehicle long distance?
Yes. Inoperable vehicles can be transported long distance, but they may require additional loading equipment or time. Be sure to mention if your vehicle does not start or roll freely when requesting a quote.
Do I need to be present during pickup or delivery?
Not always. With proper authorization and access details, long distance towing can be arranged even if you cannot be on-site. This is common for vehicle purchases, relocations, or commercial moves.
How far in advance should I book a long distance tow?
Booking in advance is recommended whenever possible, especially for longer routes or specialty vehicles. However, urgent and same-day long distance towing may still be available depending on location and timing.
What information helps ensure the quote is accurate?
Providing complete details—vehicle type, condition, exact locations, access restrictions, and preferred timing—helps ensure your long distance towing quote is accurate and reflects the full scope of service required.
