If you’ve just broken down, the first question is usually “how much is this going to cost?” The honest answer is that it depends — but it doesn’t have to be a mystery. Here’s what actually goes into a towing price in Melbourne, and how to make sure the price you’re quoted is the price you pay.
Breakdown towing and accident towing are priced differently
Victoria treats two kinds of towing very differently:
- Trade towing — breakdowns, planned car transport and other non-accident work. Prices are not regulated, so they vary between operators.
- Accident towing — towing a damaged vehicle from a crash scene. In metropolitan Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula these fees are set by regulation, and the tow truck is allocated through the government accident allocation system. Transport Victoria publishes the current charges.
Most of what people mean by “getting a tow” — a car that won’t start, a move to the mechanic, a car bought online — is trade towing.
What affects the price of a tow
1. Distance
The distance between pickup and drop-off is the biggest factor. A short run to a local workshop costs less than a trip across town. If you’re flexible about which mechanic, choosing one closer to the vehicle can save money.
2. The vehicle
Size and weight matter. A small hatch is a simpler load than a dual-cab ute with a canopy and bull bar. Lowered cars, AWDs and prestige vehicles generally need a tilt tray, which is the safest option for most modern cars anyway.
3. Condition
A car that rolls and steers is quicker to load than one with seized brakes, missing wheels or crash damage. Non-running vehicles can still be moved — they just take a little more time and care.
4. Access
Underground car parks with low ceilings, narrow laneways, steep driveways or a car buried at the back of a yard can all add time. Mention them up front and they won’t become a surprise on the day.
5. Timing
Urgent jobs, late nights, weekends and public holidays can cost more than a tow booked in advance for a weekday.
How to get an accurate quote
The more specific you are, the more accurate the price. When you ask for a quote, include:
- The exact pickup location (or share your GPS location)
- Where it’s going — or that you’re not sure yet
- Make, model and vehicle type
- Whether it drives, or at least rolls and steers
- Anything about access, keys or modifications
Our quote form asks for exactly these details, so you can get a clear price without a long phone call.
Watch out for vague pricing
A low “from” price is only useful if you know what’s included. Before you agree to a tow, make sure you know the total price for your job, what could change it, and how you’ll pay. A reputable operator will happily confirm all of this before the truck is dispatched.
The bottom line
Towing costs in Melbourne depend on distance, vehicle, condition, access and timing. Get a clear price in writing before you book, and if your car is at a crash scene, remember that a different, regulated process applies — read our accident towing guide.