When relocating a vehicle over a long distance, shipping it is often a more practical and efficient alternative to driving it yourself. Whether you're moving to a new state, selling the car, assisting a family member, or relocating for work or school, driving the vehicle across the country can come with significant drawbacks.
Long-distance drives add unnecessary mileage and wear to the car, increase the risk of breakdowns or accidents, and can be both time-consuming and costly when factoring in fuel, lodging, and meals.
This is why it’s crucial to learn the cheapest way to tow a car long distance. We’ll help you compare DIY and professional transport options, and match them with your time, tools, and travel goals.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
In this article, you will learn:
The cheapest methods to tow your car without hiring a full-service mover.
When to choose DIY over professional towing services.
How AmeriFreight Car Shipping helps you save money and time when transporting your vehicle across the country.
Overview
Why This Matters: You Don’t Want to Overpay—or Take a Risk You Can’t Afford
Before we dig into the towing options, let’s talk about why choosing the cheapest way to tow a car long distance matters.
Moving your car across the country isn’t like a quick drive across town. It takes planning, money, and the right equipment or team. If you choose the wrong method, you could end up with a damaged car, unexpected costs, or days of stress you didn’t bargain for.
This is especially true for people relocating for a job, heading off to college, or helping out a loved one. You’ve already got a lot on your plate. You don’t need more hassle, delays, or a hefty bill.
Towing a car without a plan is like towing any vehicle without preparation. Attempting to save money the wrong way may result in higher costs than if a more thoughtful plan had been used.
The Challenge of Long-Distance Towing
Transporting vehicles over very long distances presents a unique set of challenges. Traditional towing services can be expensive, where a tow truck with a cable drags your car. DIY methods, like using your vehicle and trailer, seem cheaper at first glance but require time, effort, and more costs. Additionally, towing a moving truck can add to the complexity and price of the journey.
The key to finding a solution for vehicle transportation is to balance affordability with convenience, safety, and your car's specific needs.
Budget-Friendly Options: DIY Towing
If you're searching for the cheapest way to tow a car long distance, your first big decision is whether to pull it yourself or hire a professional. DIY towing can save you money—especially if you already have the tools—but it also comes with added responsibilities, time commitments, and risk.
Let’s go over the most common DIY options:
Tow Dolly
A tow dolly lifts the front wheels of your car off the ground while the rear wheels stay on the road. It’s often the least expensive method for front-wheel drive vehicles and works well for shorter hauls.
Best for: Front-wheel drive vehicles
Estimated cost: A few hundred dollars for a long-distance rental
Pros:
Budget-friendly upfront
Compact and easier to tow than a full trailer
Cons:
Not safe for all vehicle types, especially rear-wheel or all-wheel drive
Can stress your transmission if used incorrectly
Some states restrict the use of a tow dolly
If you go this route, check your owner’s manual and towing laws in any states you drive through.
Trailer Rental
A car trailer keeps all four wheels off the road, reducing wear on your vehicle. This makes it a safer and more flexible option than a tow dolly, especially for longer distances.
Best for: Any vehicle, especially if towing far
Estimated cost: Higher than a dolly, plus fuel and possibly truck rental
Pros:
No added wear on the car
Safer over long distances
Cons:
Requires a vehicle with proper towing capacity
Adds weight, which means higher fuel costs
Not ideal for first-time towers
If you're also renting a moving truck, many companies like U-Haul offer trailer add-ons that can help keep costs down.
Using Your Own Vehicle and Trailer
If you already own a trailer and a vehicle with the right towing capacity and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) that matches the load, this might be your cheapest option.
You’ll still need to factor in fuel, travel time, and wear on your towing vehicle. But if you’re prepared, this method gives you complete control and could save you hundreds of dollars.
Smart Tips to Cut Costs
No matter which DIY method you choose, here are a few ways to save money:
Skip toll roads when possible
Drive at a consistent speed to reduce fuel use
Remove personal items and lower fuel levels in the towed car
Bundle rentals or look for discount codes online
Still, while DIY towing methods may initially seem affordable, they can be time-consuming and risky, especially over long distances. That’s why many drivers turn to professionals.
Towing Equipment and Accessories
Towing equipment and accessories are essential for safe and secure towing:
Towing hitches and couplers: Secure the tow vehicle to the trailer.
Safety chains and straps: Prevent the vehicle from moving during transport.
Wheel blocks and tie-downs: Add a layer of stability, ensuring the car remains in place throughout the journey.
Towing mirrors and lights: Improve visibility and safety during towing, making it easier to navigate the road.
The right towing equipment and accessories can vary depending on the type of vehicle and towing method. Choosing the appropriate equipment is essential for a safe and secure towing experience.
Preparation and Planning
Getting your car ready to tow is as crucial as the towing method. A few key steps can save you time, stress, and money later.
What to Do Before You Tow
Inspect Your Vehicle:
Make sure the car is in good working condition. Fix any mechanical issues before loading it up.
Lighten the Load:
Reduce the fuel level to lower the weight.
Remove personal belongings and aftermarket add-ons to avoid damage.
Secure the Vehicle Properly:
Use chains, straps, and wheel blocks to prevent shifting. Double-check all connections before hitting the road.
Know Your Towing Limits:
Check your towing vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
Confirm the tongue weight capacity matches your trailer and load.
Match the Right Hitch:
The hitch class should be rated for the combined weight of your trailer and vehicle.
Inspect Your Vehicle:
Make sure the car is in good working condition. Fix any mechanical issues before loading it up.
Lighten the Load:
Reduce the fuel level to lower the weight.
Remove personal belongings and aftermarket add-ons to avoid damage.
Secure the Vehicle Properly:
Use chains, straps, and wheel blocks to prevent shifting. Double-check all connections before hitting the road.
Know Your Towing Limits:
Check your towing vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
Confirm the tongue weight capacity matches your trailer and load.
Match the Right Hitch:
The hitch class should be rated for the combined weight of your trailer and vehicle.
Choosing a trusted auto transport service or experienced tow provider can simplify this process and offer peace of mind. It also ensures your vehicle is protected throughout the trip.
When DIY Isn’t Worth It: The Real Cost of Doing It Yourself
Engaging in DIY towing may initially appear to be a cost-effective solution; however, the potential hidden expenses and associated stress can accumulate significantly.
Time Is a Bigger Cost Than You Think
Towing your own car across the country means committing multiple days to driving, plus time spent picking up rental equipment, loading the vehicle, and stopping more often due to the slower pace of towing. If you’re working on a tight schedule or need to be in your new location fast, this method might not be worth it.
Mistakes Can Cost You More
Improper towing is one of the fastest ways to damage a car. Miss one step—like securing the vehicle properly or checking trailer connections—and you could end up dealing with:
Transmission problems
Flat tires or worn treads
Frame or suspension damage
Accidents due to poor handling or trailer sway
Even if you’re confident, towing takes skill and planning. Road grades, weather, and trailer weight affect your control. Most people don’t do this often enough to know what to expect—and that’s where problems start.
DIY Isn’t Always Cheaper in the End
While renting a dolly or trailer may seem inexpensive initially, many people often overlook additional costs that should be included in their budget:
Gas mileage drops significantly when towing
One-way rental drop-off fees
Added insurance for the equipment or the car
Safety accessories (chains, straps, mirrors)
Hotel stays or food on the road
That’s why more people are choosing professional long-distance towing services. Not because they can’t do it themselves, but because they realize it’s safer, simpler, and often more cost-effective than it seems.
Professional Towing Services: Ways to Save on Cross-Country Towing
Professional towing companies offer a range of services that can be surprisingly cost-effective, especially when considering the drawbacks of DIY methods. Here are some options to consider:
Flatbed Towing: This is an excellent option for towing any car, especially inoperable vehicles. A flatbed truck hauls your beloved car entirely off the ground, eliminating wear and tear on your drivetrain. While flatbed towing might seem expensive at first, it can be surprisingly cost-effective, especially for long distances or non-running cars, compared to the costs and risks of DIY methods.
Open Car Carrier Transport: This is a budget-friendly option for operable vehicles. Several cars are loaded onto a large carrier, sharing the ride and splitting the cost. This is perfect if you’re flexible with delivery timelines, as your vehicle might need to wait for space on a carrier headed your way. Open transport is popular for many due to its affordability and efficiency.
Choosing AmeriFreight Car Shipping
At AmeriFreight Car Shipping, we don’t only offer one-size-fits-all pricing. We help you find the solution that fits your schedule, car, and budget. We’ve been doing so for over two decades.
Making the Smart Choice: Cost vs. Convenience
While cost is a significant factor, it shouldn’t be the only consideration when choosing a towing method for your car. Here are some additional factors to consider:
Convenience: How much time and effort are you willing to invest? DIY methods require a significant time commitment for the entire trip. Professional services offer a more convenient solution as they handle the driving and logistics at competitive rates. Additionally, professional services can help you save money in the long run by minimizing risks and integrating necessary expenses into a single price.
Insurance Coverage: Review your car insurance policy to see if towing is covered and to what extent. Knowing your insurance coverage can help you factor in costs.
Time Constraints: Do you have a specific deadline for your car’s arrival? Open car carrier transport might take longer due to scheduling with other vehicles. Flatbed towing offers more flexibility and potentially faster delivery.
Vehicle Condition: Is your car operable? Inoperable vehicles require a flatbed tow truck, while operational vehicles can be towed using various methods. Vehicle compatibility is a factor when choosing the right option. Consider your car's special needs—for example, high-value classic cars may be better suited for enclosed transport.
Ensures safe and secure transportation by providing a detailed breakdown of all charges, helping you understand and budget for the total cost.
Weighing Options: DIY vs. Professional Services
Consider this table to help you decide between DIY and professional towing services.
How AmeriFreight Makes Long-Distance Towing Easier
At AmeriFreight Car Shipping, we help car owners like you find the cheapest way to tow a car long distance, without cutting corners on safety or service. We’re not a tow truck company. We’re a car shipping broker that connects you with trusted, licensed, and insured auto transporters nationwide.
AmeriFreight can make your long-distance car towing experience easier by:
Giving you peace of mind: We work with licensed transporters so you can rest assured your car is in good hands.
Offering multiple options: We can find the right fit for you, whether you need an open car carrier transport or expedited shipping.
Providing excellent customer service: Our dedicated team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Saving you time and money: We compare offers from a network of transporters to get you the best rate.
Pick What Works for You
We offer multiple transport options to fit your situation:
Open carrier transport: The most budget-friendly option. Great for everyday cars.
Enclosed auto transport: Extra protection for classic, high-value, or low-clearance vehicles.
Expedited shipping: Perfect for urgent moves when time is tight.
No matter your choice, we’ll help you understand how it fits your timeline and budget.
Additional Resources
Department of Transportation: This website has information on various transportation regulations, including towing restrictions.
AAA: The American Automobile Association has information on car towing safety.
Department of Transportation: This website has information on various transportation regulations, including towing restrictions.
AAA: The American Automobile Association has information on car towing safety.
Final Thoughts: Understanding Long-Distance Car Towing
Finding the cheapest way to tow a car long distance depends on your priorities. If you're focused on cutting costs and have the time, DIY methods might work—but only if you’re confident in your equipment and skills. For most people, though, professional auto transport offers peace of mind, safety, and real savings once you add everything up.
You can also explore more of our guides to help you make a decision:
Looking For Auto Transport Services?
Towing your car across the country doesn’t have to drain your budget—or your patience. Whether hauling it yourself or using a professional service, the key is knowing your options, understanding the real costs, and choosing a method that fits your needs.
If you're looking for the cheapest way to tow a car long distance and don’t want the stress of doing it alone, AmeriFreight Car Shipping can help. We’ll connect you with the right transporter, explain your choices, and get you a quote fast for your long-distance towing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cheapest way to move a car long-distance?
Open carrier auto transport is usually the cheapest option. It allows you to share space on a trailer with other vehicles and split costs.
How much does AAA charge per mile for towing a car?
AAA may charge $4 to $10 per mile after the first 5–7 free miles, depending on your membership and location.
