Cheapest Way to Tow a Car Long Distance

When applying for long-distance transportation, it can be pretty challenging to determine how automobiles will be transported.

 

The good news, however, is that low-cost resources are available to meet the diverse requirements and affordability levels.

 

Towing a car a long distance doesn't have to be expensive.

 

In this guide, we will cover the different ways to tow a car cheaply for long distances, compare do-it-yourself towing with hiring a professional tow service, and offer practical advice on completing this task safely while saving money.

 

Understanding your towing options

 

Tow dollies: A budget-friendly option

 

Tow dollies are trailers that effectively suspend your car's forward set of wheels from the ground while the rear wheels provide motion on the road.

 

This method is one of the cheapest when it comes to the transportation of goods and is suitable for short distances.

 

Advantages:

 

• Guaranteed affordable rental prices compared to those of other companies such as U-Haul and Penske.
  
  

• By far, this is the most straightforward procedure for most front-wheel-drive cars.
  
  

• An excellent way to keep costs down is to use a professional service.

 

Disadvantages:

 

• Does not work for all cars, especially those with all-wheel or rear wheel drive systems.
  
  

• Reduces the livability of the back wheels of a vehicle.
  
  

• Needs driving skills to drive safely in this area.

 

Also, read Tow dolly vs auto transport - Which one should you choose for long distance?

 

Flatbed trailer towing: A safer alternative

 

Compared to regular trailers, where the tires drag the car, flatbed trailers carry the vehicle off the ground, offering less stress and more protection.

 

These trailers come in two styles: open and enclosed. Regular trailers, on the other hand, are cheaper than enclosed trailers.

 

Advantages:

 

• It helps avoid incidents that may cause damage to the car.
  
  

• Applicable to all car and light truck models and full-size truck models, including all-wheel drive.
  
  

• You will find choices for luxury or antique automobiles in enclosed trailers for sale or rent.

 

Disadvantages:

 

• Unlike tow dollies, fixed costs such as rental and fuel will be higher.
  
  

• Can withdraw to a higher value with poor towing ability of the car.

 

Also, read Flatbed car transport cost - a comprehensive guide

 

Professional auto transport services

 

When the distance is long, hiring an auto transport company and loading the car into a multi-car carrier is probably more reasonable.

 

Such carriers move several vehicles at once, which significantly lowers per-car costs.

 

Advantages:

 

• It is time- and energy-saving compared to employing the DO-IT-YOURSELF yard towing.
  
  

• It has provided extra protection to the vehicle while in transit.
  
  

• So, all the organizational or coordinative work is done by professional services.

 

Disadvantages:

 

• More expensive than tow dollies or flatbeds at the initial instance.

 

Cost comparison of towing options

 

DIY tow dolly costs

 

Cross-country moving may cost around $366 for renting a tow dolly.

 

However, you must also consider incidental expenses such as gas for the towing car, which may cost $600 for cross-country travel.

 

Throw in wear and tear on the towing vehicle, and the total can quickly climb to over $1,000.

 

DIY flatbed trailer costs

 

Flatbed trailer rental fees can be anything from $700 to $1,500 and will depend on the distance and the load size.

 

This option eliminates the dragging of the car being towed but causes much aggregation of fuel consumption because of the trailer hauling extra weight.

 

Professional auto transport costs

 

A multi-car carrier is all about door-to-door transport service and moving costs, usually $1,100 or more for distance moves.

 

Compared to total expenses related to trailer rental, fuel for the trip, and possibly lodging for a do-it-yourself move, transport can churn out more affordable and accessible in the long run.

 

Preparing your car for long-distance towing

 

Towing is not a new experience for most car owners.

 

However, those planning to tow their cars for long distances need vital information about preparing for long-distance towing.

 

Vehicle compatibility check

 

Ensure the towing method aligns with your car's specifications:

 

• Ensure your trailer's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and the towing vehicle are correct.
  
  

• Tow capacity and tongue weight restrictions are something else to verify.
  
  

• Towing hitch class to match your trailer's weight.

 

Essential pre-towing checklist

 

• Check tires for pressure and proper tread.
  
  

• Lower the fuel amount to reduce the mass and weight of the car and, in turn, the cost of towing.
  
  

• Personal belongings and accessories should not be left inside to avoid loss or damage.

 

Tips for saving money on long-distance towing

 

1. Compare quotes: Get quotes from different auto transport firms to negotiate for the best quote. Do not permanently settle for low prices, but rather the reputation of customers and their reviews.
   
   
2. Plan ahead: Again, hiring transport services or renting them can be cheaper if done early, before the set-out date, rather than waiting until the last minute.
   
   
3. Consider multi-car transport: On average, if you are to ship more than one car, consolidating the cars poses lower costs than having separate carriers.
   
   
4. Use budget-friendly accessories: If towing yourself, instead of own use, rent rather than purchase such towing equipment as tow dollies or flatbed trailers.

 

Why professional transport is often cheaper

 

The perceived aimlessness of towing independently may be financially advantageous, but extra costs such as gasoline, maintenance, and accommodation are additional definitive expenses.

 

You will find that professional auto transport companies also spread your movement costs over many vehicles, carriers, and distances, thus lowering costs to each of you.

 

It also helps that their services guarantee to deliver your car back to you in one piece and on time.

 

Conclusion

 

Before deciding on the cheapest way to take a car for towing for long distances, one needs to consider all possibilities.

 

Flatbed trailers and two dollies may be more affordable but dangerous and costly.

 

Car shipping companies for professionals are slightly expensive compared to independent owners, but they offer a lot of value based on convenience level, safety, expenses required, etc.

 

However, it is recommended that your spare time and research is the most suitable and affordable option.

 

Hence, with appropriate planning, various expenses can be avoided, and the vehicle will reach its destination as required.