The cheapest way to tow your car long-distance is by booking an open auto transport carrier. Another low-cost option is to rent a tow dolly and pull the car yourself. But the right choice depends on how far you’re traveling, the type of car you have, and how much effort you’re willing to put in.
Your car and transportation needs directly affect pricing, so planning carefully can save you money and reduce stress. Costs can add up quickly if you don’t plan ahead, from fuel and rental fees to possible repairs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most affordable ways to move a car and share easy tips to keep expenses low. By the end, you’ll know which option fits both your budget and your vehicle best.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
Coming up in this post, we will answer:
How much does it cost to tow cars across long distances?
What are the cheapest and most reliable ways to transport a car?
How can you avoid overpaying for tow services while still keeping your vehicle safe?
Overview
How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car Long Distance?
The cost of towing a car a long distance can vary widely. The total depends on several factors:
Distance: The farther your car has to travel, the higher the bill will be.
Vehicle type: Larger or heavier vehicles often incur higher towing costs.
Towing method: A car dolly rental may seem cheaper upfront compared to professional auto transport.
Extra fees: Many towing truck companies add charges for mileage, hookup, and fuel surcharges.
Before making a decision, it is best to compare all available options.
Cheapest Ways to Tow Your Car Long Distance
When looking for the cheapest ways to tow your car long distance, there are three main options people compare:
1. Tow Dollies
A two-wheel car dolly lifts the front wheels while the back wheels stay on the road. It’s a budget-friendly choice, but it comes with limits.
Pros:
Low upfront cost: Renting a tow dolly is usually the cheapest option for the initial fee, making it accessible for tight budgets.
Easy to rent: Widely available at local moving companies, truck rental agencies, and equipment shops.
Compact size: Simple to return after use and easy to store if purchased.
Cons:
Drivetrain wear: With the rear wheels on the ground, there’s added strain on tires, suspension, and drivetrain. This is less of an issue for front-wheel-drive cars, but it is risky for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles. Incorrect use can damage transmissions.
Vehicle limits: Not suitable for AWD, 4WD, or many luxury vehicles, as they require all wheels to be off the ground to prevent mechanical issues.
Complex setup: Loading ramps, securing straps, and wiring lights take time and skill. Mistakes can lead to unsafe towing.
2. Flatbed Trailers
A flatbed trailer keeps all four wheels off the road. It’s a safer and more versatile option, but it requires more resources.
Pros:
No vehicle wear: Tires, suspension, and drivetrain are completely protected.
Works for all vehicles: Suitable for compact cars, heavy trucks, and classic or specialty cars.
Secure transport: Vehicles are firmly fastened for stable towing. Open trailers cost less, while enclosed trailers add protection from weather and road debris.
Cons:
Higher rental costs: More expensive than dollies, and adds fuel costs due to extra weight.
Tow vehicle needs: Requires a strong truck with enough capacity to handle both the trailer and the car. Renting such a truck adds to the price.
Harder to handle: Longer and heavier than dollies, making turns, backing up, and parking are more challenging.
3. Professional Auto Transport Services
Professional companies, like AmeriFreight Auto Transport, specialize in moving cars long distances. They handle all the logistics and driving for you.
Pros:
Maximum convenience and safety: A professional driver manages the trip, reducing risks of accidents or damage.
No personal costs: Saves on gas, hotel stays, and your time since you’re not driving a tow vehicle yourself. Includes pickup and door-to-door delivery.
Peace of mind: Licensed and insured drivers provide extra security. Open carriers are the more affordable choice, while enclosed carriers are designed to protect high-value or classic vehicles.
Cons:
Higher upfront cost: More expensive than renting equipment due to the service and expertise provided.
Advance booking required: Not available on the same day. Pickup and delivery operate within scheduled windows that may require some flexibility.
Is a Tow Dolly Really Less Expensive Than Shipping a Car Professionally?
At first glance, renting a tow dolly looks like the cheaper option. The rental fee is usually less than hiring a professional car shipping company. But once you start adding up the extra cost, the savings don’t always hold up.
But long trips mean spending money on gas, meals, and hotel stays. Pulling a car also puts extra wear and tear on your own vehicle. If you end up needing a flatbed trailer, you’ll likely need a bigger truck, which adds even more cost and hassle.
When you add everything together, professional auto transport from companies like AmeriFreight can actually be more affordable than you expect. Plus, it saves you the stress, risks, and hard work of doing it yourself.
DIY vs. Professional Transport: The Smart Choice
DIY towing can work for short trips, but over long distances, it often becomes exhausting, risky, and more expensive than expected. Renting a car dolly or flatbed may save money upfront, but added fuel, lodging, and vehicle wear can close the gap quickly.
A cheap towing service or local towing provider might save you money, but professional auto transport often comes with advantages. They are:
Safer: Your vehicle is handled by trained, vetted drivers.
Convenient: No need to manage towing equipment, long drives, or extra travel costs.
Cost-comparable: When you factor in hidden expenses, the price is often closer than it seems.
Protected: Insurance coverage and secure transport reduce the risk of damage.
Prepare Your Car for Long-Distance Towing
Preparing your car before the trip is just as important as selecting the towing method. A few simple steps can prevent damage and make the process smoother.
Check Compatibility
Confirm your towing vehicle’s capacity, including Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), tongue weight, and hitch class.
Make sure the towing equipment matches your car’s size and drivetrain.
Pre-Towing Checklist
Tires: Inspect condition and pressure on both vehicles.
Fuel: Keep your gas tank about one-quarter full to reduce weight.
Interior: Remove personal items and accessories that could shift or get damaged.
Security: Use chains, straps, and wheel blocks to keep the car stable during transport.
Taking the time to prepare reduces risks, avoids unnecessary costs, and ensures your car arrives in good condition.
Cost-Saving Tips for Long-Distance Vehicle Towing and Auto Transport
You don’t have to overspend to tow your car long-distance. Making a few smart choices can help lower your total bill while keeping your vehicle safe.
Here are some cost-saving tips you can apply:
Compare multiple quotes: Don’t go with the first offer. Prices can vary widely between towing truck companies and auto transport providers.
Choose open transport when possible: Open carriers cost less than enclosed trailers. If your car doesn’t need extra protection, this is the budget-friendly option. Enclosed carriers offer better protection for vehicles, but they are more expensive.
Rent instead of buy: If you only need towing accessories for one trip, rent them instead of purchasing.
These small steps can help you find the right balance between cost and security, making long-distance towing less stressful.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Way to Tow Your Car
Towing your car long distance doesn’t have to drain your budget. Whether you rent a dolly, use a flatbed trailer, or hire a professional service, the key is knowing the real costs behind each choice. By carefully comparing your options and planning, you can save money while also protecting your car.
Need to Move Your Car Long Distance for Less?
Skip the stress of towing it yourself. With AmeriFreight Auto Transport, we help arrange professional vehicle transport through a network of licensed, insured carriers, all while saving time, effort, and hidden costs. Whether you're moving cross-country or sending a car to college, we're here to help make the journey smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to tow a car with a truck long distance?
To tow a car long distance with a truck, use a properly rated trailer or tow dolly, secure the car with heavy-duty straps, check weight limits, and drive cautiously with regular safety checks.
What are the economical ways to transport a vehicle across states?
The most economical ways to transport a vehicle across states are driving it yourself, using open auto transport, or shipping it by rail. These options are generally the most affordable because they either eliminate labor costs or allow carriers to move multiple vehicles at once, which lowers the cost per car.
What is the cheapest way to tow a car long-distance?
The cheapest way to tow a car long-distance is typically to use an open auto transport carrier or to rent a tow dolly and tow it yourself.
What is the maximum distance allowed between towing and towed vehicles?
The maximum distance allowed between a vehicle that is towing and the vehicle being towed is typically 4 to 4.5 meters when using a flexible connection like a rope or chain. If the distance exceeds 1.5 meters, the tow rope or chain must be made clearly visible to other road users, often by tying a colored cloth in the middle.
What is the 80% rule when towing?
The 80% rule is a guideline stating that the loaded trailer's weight should not exceed 80% of your tow vehicle's maximum towing capacity, ensuring a safety margin for handling, braking, and overall vehicle control.
