Shipping a car from one state to another or even shipping it across the vast distances of the country can quite often leave you with the feeling of being stressed and overwhelmed. Such an activity can be extremely stressful, particularly if you take into account the various reasons that might lead to such a shipping—be it a change of job, buying a car online that you need to receive, or shipping a precious car to a family member who might need it.
One of the most prominent questions that arises in such circumstances is: Do you choose to tow your vehicle over long distances, or do you look into other means of transport available that might be suitable for your needs? At Vehicle Transport Hub, we aim to help car owners make the best decisions about all phases of their car shipping needs.
Here, we outline everything you need to know about long-distance towing—its pros and cons, and alternatives, so that you can decide if it is right for you.
Should You Tow a Car Long Distance?
Prior to deciding to hire a towing firm or rent equipment, you must sit down and critically evaluate whether towing is actually the most convenient and best option in your particular case. Long-distance towing can be utilized as a last resort if:
- Your vehicle is not in operation and cannot be driven.
- You want to be able to have more control over how your car is being driven during transportation.
- You need a one-time solution for moving your car without professional shipping services.
However, it should be noted that towing is not always the most convenient choice to utilize, especially when you are going to travel long distances that may be hundreds or even thousands of miles. Costs, wear and tear, and time commitments can outweigh the benefits. So, for most drivers or vehicle owners, the use of professional car transport services becomes a safer and much more convenient choice to utilize.
What Are the Options When Towing Long Distances?
When talking of long-distance car towing, one should notice that there are numerous techniques and methods to choose from in a bid to get the job done:
- Tow Dolly: This dolly raises the front wheels of your vehicle while the rear wheels are on the ground. It is an affordable option, but not for towing long distances or for all vehicles.
- Car Trailer: A covered or flatbed trailer that lifts all four wheels off the ground. This is safer for cross-country travel but needs a sturdy towing vehicle and higher-priced rental fees.
- Professional Towing Companies: Having a towing company perform the task takes the hassle out of your hands. This is convenient but can be costly depending on the distance.
- DIY with a Pickup or an SUV: If you already possess a robust vehicle capable of towing, renting a dolly or trailer could provide savings. However, it requires skill, planning, and stamina for long driving.
At Vehicle Transport Hub, we like to tell our customers that they should take time to consider the pros and cons of towing their vehicle versus using professional car shipping services, particularly in cases where they are driving across several states.
Benefits Related to Long-Distance Car Towing
Despite its challenges, long-distance towing also has advantages:
- Total Control: You are in charge of every aspect of the trip, including the schedule, and all responsibilities for your car.
- Instant Availability: Your vehicle accompanies you immediately, which basically eliminates any potential delay that would be incurred in shipping timetables.
- Flexibility: This service is ideal for moving cars that cannot be driven. This involves classic cars, cars being restored or modified, and those being taken for repairs.
- Short-Distance Suitability: For distances of less than 200 miles, towing is cost-effective compared to shipping.
For people who own cars and are extremely fond of their vehicles, taking advantage of towing services provides a wonderful sense of security.
Disadvantages Involved with Car Towing Over Long Distances
Before you hitch your car and set off on your trip along the road, it is important to seriously think through and weigh the possible disadvantages:
- High Expenses: The different rental charges incurred on vehicles, the fuel expenses paid, the tolls paid for traveling, and the overnight accommodation expenses paid have a tendency to accumulate very quickly.
- Wear and Tear of Vehicle: When being transported via a tow dolly, you should understand that your car's tires, suspension system, and the transmission of the towing vehicle may be damaged to some degree over time.
- Time-Consuming: Driving long distances with a trailer in tow involves slower speeds, increased stops, and increased caution.
- Safety Hazards: It is very challenging to handle and steer a tow configuration while traveling on highways, in bad weather, or going uphill and downhill.
- Insurance Limitations: Certain rental agencies offer limited coverage, and therefore, you may end up paying for damages done during the rental period.
For inter-state moves, such disadvantages are usually more than the advantages, thus making professional shipping a better choice.
Here at Vehicle Transport Hub, we pride ourselves on specializing and having years of experience in helping our valued customers obtain the best and most convenient option for their car transporting needs. Whether you are considering the option of towing or if you want to explore safe, economical transport options, our experienced staff is here to assist and guide you through every step of the entire process.
Call Vehicle Transport Hub today for a free quote and find out how easy it is to deliver your vehicle over a long distance.
5 Long-Distance Car Towing FAQs
1. Is towing less expensive than car shipping?
Not always. Adding fuel, tolls, trailer rental, and accommodation, long-distance towing can cost as much or more than professional auto transport.
2. Is any type of car capable of being towed a long distance?
Not all cars are tow-dolly or trailer-worthy. Low-clearance or luxury, or AWD vehicles can involve specialized equipment.
3. How far is the "too far" point when pulling a vehicle?
Anything over 200–300 miles is typically not feasible for DIY towing. Beyond that, shipping is more cost-effective.
4. Do towing companies handle cross-country moves?
In fact, there are some professional towing companies that do offer long-haul towing services for their customers. Yet, it should be mentioned that the costs of such services are usually higher compared to those of typical car shipping carriers.
5. What’s the safest way to tow long distances?
To use either an enclosed carrier or a flatbed trailer is considered the safest and most secure method to ensure the safety of your vehicle when it is being shipped over long distances.
