Towing in Melbourne costs between $150 to $300. Factors that affect the price include the distance, type of vehicle, time of day and the location and accessibility.
In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the cost of car towing in Melbourne.
How Much Does a Tow Truck Cost?
A tow truck costs $150 to $300. Pricing varies based on distance, vehicle type, time of service, and accessibility. Towing within 10 km often starts at $150, while distances up to 50 km may reach $450.
Costs increase for larger vehicles or tows during off-hours and public holidays. Fees may also include charges for difficult hook-ups or specific tow truck requirements.
This variability ensures the service adapts to different towing needs, providing flexibility and convenience to the customer.
Factors That Affect Towing Price
The following factors affect towing price:
Distance
Distance significantly influences towing prices. Shorter distances, typically within 10 km, cost less, starting around $150.
For tows extending up to 50 km, prices can rise to $450. Costs per kilometre increase proportionately with distance. Additional charges apply for each extra kilometre beyond the initial range.
Towing companies base their fees on the fuel, time, and wear involved in travelling greater distances. Urban areas may see lower costs due to shorter travel times, while rural or remote locations incur higher fees.
Type of Vehicle
The type of vehicle being towed affects the overall cost. Standard cars and small vehicles generally incur lower towing fees. For larger types of vehicles, such as 4WDs, trucks, or heavy machinery, costs increase due to the need for specialised equipment and additional effort.
These larger or heavier vehicles require more robust towing capabilities, impacting resources. Motorcycles, while smaller, may also need specific handling techniques, altering the price.
Time of Day
Time of day plays a crucial role in towing costs. Towing services during regular business hours are typically cheaper. After-hours services, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, often incur higher rates due to surcharges.
These additional costs compensate for the inconvenience and increased operational demands of providing 24-hour availability. Delays can also add to the overall cost during peak traffic hours, as they increase the time and effort required.
Location and Accessibility
Location and accessibility directly impact the towing price. Vehicles located in easily accessible areas, such as open roads or driveways, typically cost less to tow. Conversely, vehicles in hard-to-reach locations like underground car parks, narrow alleys, or difficult terrain may incur additional fees.
These scenarios require specialised towing equipment and techniques, increasing the overall cost. The time and effort needed to navigate tight spaces or extract a vehicle from challenging positions contribute to the higher charges.
Are There Other Fees When Hiring a Melbourne Towing Company?
Yes, there are other fees when hiring a Melbourne towing company, such as storage fees, after-hours surcharges, and public holiday surcharges. These additional costs cover the extra resources needed for services like vehicle storage and round-the-clock operations.
Charges may also apply for challenging vehicle extractions and longer-distance towing.
