How Much Does a Tow Truck Cost?


Car tows are frequent in the United States, and most car owners will find that at least one tow is needed for their lives. However, towing rates may be expensive if you are not a roadside help organization or receive help from your insurance company. In addition, it might be tough to pay a tow if you do not need one without an emergency fund.

In the previous articles, we learned How Much a Tow Truck Costs, what a Tow Truck Costs to Tow a Car, and the Cost of towing a Semi-Truck.

tow truck

How Much Does a Tow Truck Cost (to Buy)?

The cost of a tow truck can vary depending on several factors, including the type of tow truck, its size, features, and condition. Additionally, prices can also vary based on the region and market conditions. Generally, a new tow truck can range from $50,000 to over $200,000.

Here are some common types of tow trucks and their average price ranges:

  1. Flatbed Tow Truck: A basic flatbed tow truck can cost between $50,000 and $90,000. However, specialized flatbeds with additional features or larger capacities can be more expensive, reaching $100,000 or more.
  2. Wheel Lift Tow Truck: A wheel lift tow truck, a hook and chain tow truck, is relatively less expensive than a flatbed. Prices for a new wheel lift tow truck can range from $30,000 to $70,000.
  3. Integrated Tow Truck: Integrated tow trucks, also called heavy-duty wreckers or rotators, are used for towing larger vehicles like trucks or buses. These heavy-duty tow trucks can cost anywhere from $100,000 to well over $200,000, depending on their capacity and features.
  4. Medium-Duty Tow Truck: Medium-duty tow trucks tow smaller vehicles like vans or small trucks. The price range for a medium-duty tow truck typically falls between $60,000 and $100,000.

It’s important to note that the prices mentioned above are rough estimates, and the actual cost of a tow truck can vary based on various factors. Buying a used tow truck can be more cost-effective, but prices will depend on the vehicle’s age, condition, and specifications. Therefore, it’s recommended to research local dealerships and online marketplaces to get more accurate pricing information for the type of tow truck you’re interested in.

You can buy a tow truck from various sources, including:

  1. Dealerships: Many truck dealerships have dedicated sections or departments for commercial vehicles, including tow trucks. You can visit local dealerships or check their websites to explore the available inventory and contact them for pricing and purchasing options.
  2. Online Marketplaces: There are several online marketplaces where you can find new and used tow trucks for sale. Some popular platforms include:

    These platforms allow you to search for tow trucks based on location, price range, make, model, and other specifications. However, exercise caution and verify the seller’s legitimacy before making any transactions.

  3. Auctions: Government auctions, repo auctions, and surplus equipment auctions can be potential sources for finding used tow trucks. These auctions often feature vehicles at competitive prices—research local auction listings or websites like GovDeals (www.govdeals.com) to find tow truck auctions near you.
  4. Specialty Websites: Some websites list commercial vehicles, including tow trucks. Examples include:
    • CommercialTruckTrader.com
    • TruckPaper.com
    • EquipmentTrader.com
    • FleetEquipmentMag.com

    These websites provide comprehensive listings, including detailed specifications, photos, and seller contact information.

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to consider factors such as the condition of the tow truck, its history, maintenance records, and any warranties or guarantees offered. In addition, inspecting the vehicle in person or hiring a professional mechanic to evaluate it can help ensure you’re making a reliable purchase.

Additionally, it’s beneficial to compare prices, research customer reviews, and consider factors like after-sales service and support when selecting a seller or dealership.

In conclusion, the cost of a tow truck can vary based on several factors. The type of tow truck, its size, features, and condition all contribute to the overall price. Additionally, market conditions and regional variations can also impact the cost.

It’s recommended to research local dealerships, online marketplaces, and auction listings to get accurate pricing information for the specific type of tow truck you’re interested in. Additionally, considering factors such as the vehicle’s condition, history, and any additional fees or services will contribute to the overall cost.

Robert Aksamit

Robert Aksamit

Robert Aksamit is a mechanical engineer and automotive industry expert. Robert was born in Minnesota and worked in the US automotive industry for 25 years. He is highly regarded for his passion and dedication to continually improving vehicles in response to customer feedback. Robert has a keen eye for sourcing the best vehicle components and materials on the market and is always looking for ways to enhance the user experience. As a writer, Robert covers automotive-related topics. Read more on Robert Aksamit's about page. Contact Robert: robert@promtengine.com

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