Tips for Choosing the Best Tow Company Near You

March 13, 2024

Being stranded on the roadside can be a stressful experience, but having the right towing company on speed dial can make all the difference. Here at Gresham Towing, we've been serving the Gresham community for years, and we've seen it all.

The last thing you want to worry about is finding a reliable and reputable tow company when your car breaks down. We've put together this comprehensive guide to help you choose the best towing company near you.

Why Choosing the Right Tow Company Matters

Finding yourself stranded on the side of the road can be a stressful experience. While all towing companies aim to get your vehicle from point A to point B, choosing the right one can significantly impact your experience.

A reputable towing company offers peace of mind by being reliable and responsive in a stressful situation. They prioritize the safety of your vehicle, using proper equipment and techniques to minimize any further damage during the towing process. Transparency is key, and reputable companies provide upfront estimates before the tow begins, avoiding any unexpected charges.

Car trouble doesn't wait for convenient hours and a good towing company will offer 24/7 availability. Many towing companies offer a variety of roadside assistance services, such as jump starts, flat tire changes, and even winching services for vehicles stuck off-road.

By choosing a reputable towing company, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience, even in the midst of a car breakdown.

8 Tips for Choosing the Best Tow Company in Gresham

Now that you understand the importance of choosing the right towing company, let's dive into the steps involved in choosing the right tow company near you.

Do your research

The internet is your friend! Start by searching for "tow company near me" or "Gresham towing company." Look for companies with websites that appear professional and up-to-date.

Check online reviews and ratings

Reviews and ratings from past customers can be a valuable source of information. Check Yelp and Google Business for companies with good reviews for being professional, responsive, and having fair prices. Here at Gresham Towing, we're proud of our many positive reviews from satisfied customers in the Gresham area.

Ask for recommendations

Word-of-mouth recommendations are another great way to find a reliable towing company. Talk to friends, family, neighbors, or even your mechanic to see if they have any recommendations.

Verify licensing and insurance

Before choosing a towing company, make sure they are properly licensed and insured. This protects you in case of any accidents or damage during the towing process.

Get an estimate

Always get an estimate for the towing service before you agree to anything. The estimate should include the cost of the tow itself, any additional fees (such as a hook-up fee or storage fees), and the estimated time of arrival. Don't hesitate to call a few different companies to compare rates before making a decision.

Ask about services offered

Not all towing companies offer the same services. Make sure the company you choose offers the services you might need, such as roadside assistance, long-distance towing, or towing for heavy-duty vehicles.

24/7 availability

Car trouble can happen anytime. Ensure the towing company you choose offers 24/7 emergency services so you're never left stranded, no matter the time of day.

Payment options

Find out what payment methods the towing company accepts. Does the company accept credit cards, or will you need to have cash on hand?

Understanding Towing Services Offered

Now that you know how to find a reputable towing company, let's explore the different types of towing services commonly offered:

Roadside assistance 

These services can be a lifesaver in a pinch. Common roadside assistance services include:

  • Jump starts: If your car battery is dead, a tow truck driver can jump-start your vehicle to get you back on the road.
  • Flat tire changes: A tow truck driver can quickly and safely change your flat tire for you.
  • Fuel delivery:  Many towing companies offer fuel delivery services to get you back on the road without needing to call another service.

Towing

This is the bread and butter of most towing companies. Towing services involve using a tow truck to transport your vehicle from one location to another. There are three types of towing:

  • Wheel-lift towing: This is the most common type of towing, where the tow truck lifts the front wheels of your vehicle off the ground and transports it on the back of the tow truck.
  • Flatbed towing: This type of towing is used for vehicles that cannot be towed with a wheel-lift, such as cars with low ground clearance or vehicles that have been in an accident.

Heavy-duty towing: This type of towing is specifically designed for larger vehicles such as trucks, buses, and RVs.

How Much Does Towing Cost?

The price of a tow truck can vary depending on a few key factors. Generally, the longer the distance your car needs to be towed, the higher the cost will be. Additionally, the type of tow truck required plays a role.

According to Homeguide, the average cost for a tow truck is $75 to $125. However, the final price can vary depending on various factors. Most companies have a base fee, typically around $50, that covers the initial hook-up and a short distance tow (often 5-10 miles). Beyond that, expect to pay per additional mile, with rates usually falling between $2 and $4.

Wheel-lift towing is usually cheaper than flatbed towing, where the whole vehicle is loaded onto a flat platform. Some towing companies may also charge extra for after-hours or weekend services. If you require additional services like jump starts, flat tire changes, or winching a stuck vehicle, expect to incur additional fees.

Here at Gresham Towing, we prioritize transparency and upfront pricing for all our services. We recommend getting quotes from a few different companies before making a decision to ensure you're getting the best value.

What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down

Being prepared can make a big difference in a stressful situation. Here are some tips for what to do if your car breaks down:

  • Pull over to a safe location: If possible, try to pull your car over to the side of the road away from traffic. If you can't pull over safely, turn on your hazard lights and wait for help.
  • Turn off your engine: This will help prevent further damage to your vehicle.
  • Call for help: Once you're in a safe location, call a reputable towing company. Have your location and the make and model of your car handy.
  • Wait for the tow truck: While you wait for the tow truck, stay in your car with the doors locked and turn on your hazard lights.

Conclusion

Choosing the right towing company doesn't have to be a hassle. By following the tips in this guide and keeping Gresham Towing in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding a reliable and reputable company to help you in your time of need.

Additional tips:

  • Keep the phone number of a reputable towing company in your car or phone for easy access.
  • Consider investing in roadside assistance coverage. This can give you peace of mind knowing that towing and other roadside services are covered in case of a breakdown.

Trust Gresham Towing for 24/7 Towing Service

By following these tips, you can be prepared for the unexpected and ensure a smooth experience if your car ever breaks down in Gresham, Oregon.

Remember, we at Gresham Towing are available 24/7 to provide you with prompt, professional, and affordable towing services throughout the Gresham area. Don't hesitate to contact us today for a free quote or to learn more about the services we offer.

Why Choose Gresham Towing?

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24/7 Roadside Assistance

Vehicle issues don't stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. Gresham Towing offers 24/7 roadside assistance. Whether stranded in daylight or facing an emergency at night, our reliable tow trucks are a call away. Trust us for prompt, efficient 24-hour tow truck service.

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Fair Pricing

At Gresham Towing, transparency is our priority. We provide competitive and fair pricing for our top-notch tow services in Gresham. No hidden fees, no surprises – just straightforward and affordable solutions for all your towing needs.

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Courteous Drivers

Gresham Towing takes pride in its courteous team. Choosing us means more than tow service—it's a friendly, stress-free experience. Our dedicated drivers ensure assistance with respect, caring about you and your vehicle.

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Choose Gresham Towing for 24 hour tow truck service and the most reliable towing in Gresham!

CALL (503) 663-5711