If your car has ever broken down in the middle of a busy Melbourne street, you’ll know how stressful it can feel. On top of worrying about getting your vehicle to safety, the next big question usually is: “How much is this tow going to cost me?”
The truth is, towing prices in Melbourne can vary quite a bit depending on your situation. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay, and what factors influence the final bill.
The Average Cost of a Tow in Melbourne
For a standard, local tow within metro Melbourne, you’re generally looking at somewhere between $150 and $200. That usually covers the base charge and a set distance—say, up to 10 or 15 kilometres.
But costs don’t stop there. Longer tows, after-hours calls, or towing bigger vehicles can all push the price higher.
What Factors Affect the Price?
1. Distance
This one’s pretty straightforward: the further your car needs to go, the more you’ll pay. Most towing companies include a set distance in the base fee, then charge per kilometre beyond that. For example, if you break down in Richmond but need your car taken out to Geelong, expect the cost to climb.
2. Vehicle Type and Size
Not all cars are equal when it comes to towing. A small hatchback is simple and quick to move, but a large SUV, ute, or van often requires more specialised equipment. Heavy-duty towing usually costs more than a standard job.
3. Time of Day
Breakdowns rarely happen at convenient times. If you need a tow at 2am on a Sunday morning, chances are the cost will be higher than if you called at 2pm on a weekday. After-hours surcharges are standard across the industry.
4. Type of Tow
Not every tow is the same. A simple breakdown tow is usually cheaper than more complex jobs like accident recovery, winching a vehicle out of a ditch, or transporting a non-standard vehicle such as a caravan or motorbike.
Real-World Example
Imagine your car stalls on a weeknight in Brunswick and you need it towed 10km to your mechanic. That job might come in at around $170. But let’s say instead your ute breaks down in Dandenong at midnight and needs to go 40km—suddenly, the cost could double.
Is Cheap Always Better?
When you’re stranded, it’s tempting to just go for the lowest quote. But it’s worth remembering that towing isn’t just about getting the cheapest deal—it’s about getting your car moved safely and securely. A professional, licensed tow truck operator will have the right equipment and insurance to protect your vehicle. Sometimes paying a little extra saves you a lot of headaches.
The Bottom Line on Towing Costs
Towing in Melbourne usually starts at around $150–$200 for a local tow, but the final cost depends on distance, vehicle type, time of day, and the complexity of the job.
Next time you need a tow, keep these factors in mind so you’re not caught off guard. And remember, a good towing company will be upfront about costs before they send a truck your way—that way, there are no surprises when it’s time to pay.
If you are in Campbellfield, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to find us.
1/26 Acacia St, Glenroy VIC 3046
0437 773 905
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