Towing a Car Long Distance: A Complete Guide

Imagine this. You’re relocating to a new state or maybe rescuing your dream project car from another city. But here’s the twist—you can’t drive it there. Whether the vehicle is inoperable or it’s simply not safe to put that many miles on it, you’re now faced with a unique dilemma: towing a car long distance.

And let me tell you, it’s not as simple as it sounds. I’ve been in this spot once when I helped my cousin haul a 1967 Mustang from Texas to Florida. What seemed like a weekend task turned into a logistical puzzle. But don’t worry. I’ve gathered everything I learned—from personal experience and solid research—so that your journey can be smoother than mine.

In this article, we’ll explore how to tow a car long distance the right way—covering options, costs, safety tips, personal hacks, and even the emotional rollercoaster that often comes with long hauls. I’ll talk to you like a friend who’s been there, not a dry manual.

What Does “Towing a Car Long Distance” Really Mean?

Common Reasons for Long-Distance Towing

• Relocation – Moving across the country but flying there yourself.

• Online car purchases – You bought a car on eBay or through a dealer in another state.

• Inoperable vehicles – Cars that can’t be driven due to engine failure or missing parts.

• Classic or luxury cars – Vehicles you don’t want to risk damaging on the road.

• Emergency family help – Helping someone in another state move or recover their car.

Each of these reasons comes with its own emotional weight. That’s why making the right choice matters—not just for your car but for your peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Towing Method: What Fits Your Journey?

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to towing a car long distance. What worked for my cousin’s Mustang wouldn’t work for a busted-up sedan or an electric car. Let’s break down your main options.

1. Professional Auto Transport Services

If you want a hands-off approach, hire a long-distance auto transport company. They handle everything from pickup to delivery. This is best for high-value, non-operational, or delicate vehicles.

Pros:

• Stress-free

• Insured and licensed

• Options for open or enclosed carriers

Cons:

• Expensive (anywhere from $600–$2,000)

• Limited delivery windows

2. Tow Dolly Rental

This involves towing the front wheels of your car while the rear ones roll on the ground. Good for shorter distances but can be used long-distance if you’re careful.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly

• Available at U-Haul and rental companies

Cons:

• Not suitable for all vehicles (e.g., all-wheel drives)

• Requires careful loading and extra braking distance

3. Flatbed Trailer

This is the safest and most versatile DIY method. It tows all four wheels off the ground and minimizes wear and tear.

Pros:

• Full protection for the car

• Suitable for any car type

Cons:

• Heavy and requires a strong tow vehicle

• More expensive to rent

4. Tow Bar

Connects your car to the back of an RV or another vehicle. It’s ideal for light cars that are frequently towed behind campers.

Pros:

• Great for long hauls with RVs

• Affordable if used often

Cons:

• Not great for cars that aren’t “flat-tow” capable

• May void your warranty if done improperly

Comparison Table: Long-Distance Towing Methods

Budgeting for the Haul: What It Really Costs

Okay, let’s talk numbers because towing a car long distance isn’t cheap. But knowing what to expect can save you from headaches later.

Factors That Affect Cost

• Distance: More miles = more money

• Vehicle size: Bigger or heavier cars cost more to tow

• Type of transport: Open carrier is cheaper than enclosed

• Pickup/delivery flexibility: Want a specific date? It’ll cost you.

• Season: Summer rates are higher due to demand

Example Costs:

If you’re DIY-ing it with a dolly or trailer, don’t forget fuel costs, rental fees, and insurance.

️ Must-Have Tools and Gear for Safe Long-Distance Towing

You wouldn’t go camping without a tent, right? Same idea here. If you’re towing a car long distance, don’t leave home without the essentials.

✅ Towing Checklist

• Heavy-duty tie-down straps or chains

• Wheel chocks

• Tow lights and reflectors

• Spare tire (for both vehicles)

• Portable jump starter

• Towing mirrors

• Brake controller (for heavy loads)

When I towed my cousin’s car, we forgot towing mirrors—and wow, I never realized how blind I’d feel without them. Lesson learned. Spend the extra few bucks; your safety depends on it.

Common Mistakes People Make (And How to Avoid Them)

When it’s your first time towing a car long distance, mistakes are easy to make. And they can be costly—or dangerous. Let me walk you through the most common ones I’ve seen and made myself.

Not Checking Vehicle Compatibility

Some cars just aren’t made for towing. If you try using a tow dolly on an all-wheel-drive vehicle, you could destroy the drivetrain. Always read the owner’s manual.

Ignoring Weight Limits

Exceeding your towing capacity is a recipe for overheating brakes and blown transmissions. You’ll feel it in the sway of the trailer—and not in a good way.

Driving Too Fast

Speed is a killer. Always stay below 65 mph, even if the speed limit is higher. A little patience could save your car—and your life.

Forgetting to Secure Loose Parts

Check for loose mirrors, spoilers, or anything that could fly off mid-journey. Use painter’s tape or bubble wrap if needed.

The Emotional Side: It’s More Than Just a Car

Sometimes, towing a car long distance isn’t just about logistics. It’s about emotions.

I remember when I helped my grandfather move his old Ford truck across state lines. He’d had that truck since the ’70s, and seeing it loaded onto a trailer was like watching a piece of his soul drive away. We sat in silence for most of the journey, both knowing it wasn’t just metal and rubber—it was memories.

That’s why it’s okay to feel nervous, anxious, or even emotional. Cars often carry stories. And towing them, especially far away, means you’re moving a part of your story too.

Safety First: Best Practices While Towing Long Distance

Safety isn’t something you figure out halfway through the journey—it’s something you plan for before the wheels even move.

Whether you’re using a dolly, flatbed, or hiring a service, safety is key when towing a car long distance. One slip-up could cause an accident, property damage, or serious injury.

Key Safety Tips

• Double-check connections: Before you hit the road, walk around your vehicle and tug on every strap, chain, and hook. It’s like a seatbelt check—do it twice.

• Brake early, brake slowly: With added weight, your stopping distance increases dramatically. Always allow more space in front of you.

• Use lower gears on hills: Don’t overwork your engine or fry your brakes. Let gravity help you safely descend slopes.

• Check tire pressure often: Both vehicles and trailers. Hot pavement can cause blowouts if your tires are under-inflated.

• Take frequent breaks: Long-distance towing is mentally exhausting. Stop every 2–3 hours, stretch your legs, and inspect your load.

I still remember a scary moment near the Georgia border. Our trailer straps had loosened because of vibration, and we only caught it during a routine break. That moment taught me the power of pause.

️ Legal and Insurance Matters You Can’t Skip

One thing most people overlook when towing a car long distance is the legal side of the equation. Don’t assume you’re automatically covered or legal just because you’re renting from a trusted place.

Do You Need Special Permits?

• Across state lines? Some states have laws on how wide or long a tow can be.

• Tow lights & plates? If your car’s rear lights aren’t visible, you’ll need extra lighting.

• Maximum towing weight laws? States like California and New York enforce strict towing limits.

Check with the DMV or highway patrol website for each state you’ll cross. It’s boring—but worth it.

What About Insurance?

You need insurance coverage—not just for your car but for:

• The trailer or dolly

• The towing vehicle

• Any potential damage caused to others

Contact your insurer and ask:

• Does my policy cover towing damage?

• Will my roadside assistance help if something goes wrong mid-tow?

• Do I need supplemental insurance for a rental trailer?

If you’re using a towing service, ensure they provide:

• Cargo insurance

• Carrier liability

• Damage reimbursement clauses

How to Prepare Your Car for Long-Distance Towing

Think of this step like prepping for a long flight. You wouldn’t throw your suitcase onto a plane without checking it, right? Same idea here.

Before towing a car long distance, you need to prep it both mechanically and physically.

Exterior Preparation

• Wash the car. Sounds silly, but dirt hides scratches. You want to document any existing damage before transport.

• Remove or secure antennas, spoilers, or loose trim.

• Fold in mirrors to reduce wind damage.

• Cover with a soft, breathable car cover if using an open trailer.

⚙️ Mechanical Preparation

• Check for leaks. Fluids can cause major hazards during loading.

• Top off fluids, especially coolant and transmission oil, if the car will be turned on/off.

• Disconnect the battery if transporting over 1,000 miles.

• Disable alarms to prevent them from going off mid-tow.

Don’t Forget to:

• Take photos of your vehicle from all angles.

• Empty the car of valuables.

• Remove toll tags or parking passes—they might charge you if triggered on the highway!

DIY Towing vs. Professional Transport: Which One’s Right for You?

Now comes the million-dollar question: Should you tow your car yourself or hire a pro? I’ve done both, and each has its pros and pitfalls.

️ DIY: For the Brave and Budget-Conscious

DIY towing is cheaper, but it requires:

• A proper tow vehicle (usually a truck or SUV)

• Knowledge of straps, weight distribution, and trailer handling

• Physical strength and patience

You’ll also need to be okay with:

• Stressful highway merging

• Unexpected detours

• Extra time for loading/unloading

I did a 900-mile haul once using a dolly and honestly, it felt like driving with a tail that could swing at any moment. Not for the faint of heart.

Professional Transport: Peace of Mind, Higher Cost

With a transport service, you’re paying for:

• Convenience

• Expertise

• Insurance

• Time saved

They know how to secure, load, and deliver vehicles—no stress for you. Ideal for high-end or sentimental cars.

If your time is worth more than the money, or you’re not confident towing, this is the way to go.

Final Long-Distance Towing Checklist

Before you hit the road, here’s a final checklist that you can print, screenshot, or save:

✅ Choose the right towing method
✅ Inspect and prep both vehicles
✅ Check state laws for trailer/towing regulations
✅ Secure proper insurance coverage
✅ Load the car properly (centered, balanced)
✅ Use all safety gear: straps, lights, mirrors
✅ Drive cautiously and take breaks
✅ Double-check everything at every rest stop

Your future self will thank you for this list.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does towing a car long distance cost?

Towing a car long distance can range from $600 to $2,500+, depending on the method, vehicle size, and distance. DIY options are cheaper but require more effort.

2. Is it safe to tow a car long distance with a dolly?

Yes—if your vehicle is front-wheel drive, and you follow weight and loading guidelines. But for all-wheel or rear-wheel cars, a flatbed is safer.

3. Can I tow an electric vehicle long distance?

Yes, but never use a dolly. EVs must be towed on a flatbed to avoid drivetrain damage. Always consult your car’s manual.

4. What’s the best company for long-distance car transport?

Popular options include Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, and AmeriFreight. Choose one with strong reviews and full insurance coverage.

5. Do I need to remove personal items before transport?

Yes. Transport companies typically won’t insure personal belongings inside the vehicle. Also, added weight can increase costs.

6. Can I tow a car using a regular car?

Usually no. Most sedans lack the towing capacity for a dolly or trailer. Use a truck or SUV rated for towing.

7. What should I do if my car gets damaged during towing?

Document everything with photos before and after. File a claim with your transport company or insurance provider immediately.

8. How long does it take to tow a car cross-country?

It depends on the distance and transport method. A 2,000-mile journey might take 4–10 days with professional services, or longer if DIY.

Conclusion: Towing a Car Long Distance Is a Journey—Not Just a Task

There’s more to towing a car long distance than just straps and wheels. It’s about planning ahead, knowing your limits, respecting the road, and making smart choices.

Whether you’re saving money with a DIY tow or investing in a transport service, remember: this isn’t just about a car—it’s about getting a part of your life safely from point A to point B.

And hey, if you’re feeling stressed—take a breath. Thousands of people do this every day. You’ve got the knowledge now. You’re ready.