What affects the price
Distance
A tow across town costs less than a tow from Kenosha to Milwaukee or from Milwaukee to Madison. Most companies charge a base fee for the hookup plus a rate per mile for longer trips.
The type of vehicle
A compact car is straightforward. Large trucks, lifted vehicles, lowered cars and exotics can take more time and care to load safely. A flatbed is the right choice for all-wheel-drive cars, EVs and high-value vehicles.
The situation
A car parked in a driveway is the simplest job. A car in a ditch, buried in snow, in a tight parking garage or badly damaged after an accident takes more work. A winch-out to get the car back on solid ground is often priced separately.
Roadside help instead of a tow
If the problem is a dead battery, a lockout, a flat with a good spare or an empty tank, roadside assistance usually costs less than a tow because there's no trip to a shop.
Storage
If the car goes to a tow yard instead of straight to a shop or your home, storage fees can add up by the day. Having a destination ready avoids that.
How to get a clear price
- Give dispatch the exact pickup location and the destination.
- Describe the vehicle and what happened, including if it's stuck, damaged or won't roll.
- Ask for the total price before the truck is sent.
- Ask how you can pay.
PS Towing & Recovery gives you the price before the truck rolls. Call (414) 254-1468 for a quote any time.
Check your coverage
Many auto insurance policies, new-car warranties and credit cards include some roadside or towing coverage. It's worth checking, and keep your receipt so you can submit it for reimbursement.