Last updated on March 31st, 2022
Vehicle towing cost guide
If you have a vehicle that needs moving, whether it’s a broken-down car or van that needs moving from one place to another, towing a vehicle is a common solution. In this guide we look at the average vehicle towing cost in the UK.

If you have a vehicle that needs moving, whether it’s a broken-down car or van that needs moving from one place to another, towing a vehicle is a common solution. Let’s take a look at the average vehicle towing cost in the UK.
The cost of towing a vehicle varies and any costs included in this article are meant to act as a guide. For accurate vehicle towing charges in your area, speak to local towing companies and ask for a breakdown of their costs.
How much does vehicle towing cost?
Item | Range - Low | Range - High | Average cost |
---|---|---|---|
Vehicle towing (per mile) | £1 | £3 | £2 |
Our costs are ballpark averages – get a local tradesperson to quote now
The average cost of vehicle towing in the UK is in the region of £1 – £3 per mile. This price will vary based on a number of factors, including the vehicle, the distance it needs to be towed and where the towing company is based.
To calculate the cost of towing a vehicle, you’ll need to know how far you need it to be towed in order to get an accurate quote. There is usually one vehicle towing cost per mile for the first 50 miles and then it changes depending on any additional mileage after that – some firms charge more per mile for additional mileage, others charge less.
Factors affecting the cost of towing a vehicle
In addition to the basic charges for vehicle towing, here are the main factors that will affect the overall cost of towing a vehicle:
- Distance – Calculated from the vehicle’s current location to the final destination.
- Type and size of vehicle – The cost to tow a car can vary depending on the model you have, e.g. a large SUV or truck could cost more than a small compact car.
- Out of hours fees – Some towing companies will charge you extra for towing a vehicle out of standard hours (evenings, weekends, bank holidays).
- Additional recovery costs – You may be charged additional costs if your vehicle needs additional effort to get it onto the road before towing, such as being stuck in a ditch.
What are the benefits of vehicle towing?
If you’re wondering whether you want to fork out the money for having your vehicle towed, here are some of the reasons that can justify the vehicle towing cost.
Vehicle and personal safety
Professional towing companies know how to safely and effectively relocate a vehicle from one place to another, and have the necessary equipment to do so. Not only does this keep you and your vehicle safe, but it also reduces the stress of having to deal with it yourself.
Available around the clock
Most towing companies offer a 24/7 service so that you can have your car towed at any time, day or night. They may charge an additional fee for out of hours services but you’ll have peace of mind knowing your vehicle is where it needs to be.
Reduce the risk of damage or theft
Leaving your car unattended in an isolated location can massively increase the chance of it being damaged or stolen. By towing it safely to a secure place will reduce that risk and keep it safe.
Storage facilities
Most car towing companies have storage facilities where they can store your vehicle, if needed. This is often a useful option if your car has been in a major accident and you need it stored while you make an insurance claim. Storage will come at an additional cost
Quotes for vehicle towing charges
We always recommend obtaining at least three quotes from our trusted tradespeople. Our request a quote feature is perfect for getting quotes – you post details about the job you want doing and we’ll send it out to local tradespeople in your area. Try it out!
Checkatrade
Hi Bongani, thank you for your comment. I recommend filling in our request a quote form to get quotes from three tradespeople near you.
Bongani sibiya
Hi please supply a quote for towing a vw microbus combi from newcasle kzn to volkrust