Moving a car across the country or even just a few states over? Whether you’re relocating, buying a car from out of town, or rescuing a breakdown, you’re probably wondering about the cheapest way to tow a car long distance. The truth? It can be pricey, but it doesn’t have to be.

According to AAA, a 1,000-mile tow could cost well over $3,000 if you don’t shop around. That’s a big number. But with the right strategy, you can seriously cut costs without compromising on safety.

Here’s how to do it.

1. Shop Around for Quotes (And Then Ask for a Better Deal)

Start by getting multiple quotes. Prices for long distance towing vary more than you’d expect, especially when it comes to long distance vehicle towing.

Look out for:

• Flat rate vs. per-mile charges
  
• Fuel, tolls, and insurance (are they included?)
  
• What happens if there’s a delay or breakdown?
  

Get everything in writing, and don’t be afraid to ask for a price match.

2. Choose Open Trailer Auto Transport

Flatbeds and dollies work, but if you’re focused on the cheapest way to tow a car long distance, open trailer shipping wins.

Why?

• Lower overall costs
  
• Shared loads = shared pricing
  
• Easier to schedule
  

This method is a go-to for the best car shipping company providers; it’s reliable, affordable, and gets the job done for standard cars.

3. Avoid Peak Season Price Hikes

Need flexibility? Avoid summer months, year-end holidays, or bad weather seasons. That’s when prices spike.

Booking during off-peak times like early spring or fall can score you better rates on long distance car service and faster turnaround from the cheapest towing service providers.

4. DIY with a Tow Dolly or Trailer

Got a truck? Know how to tow? Renting a dolly or trailer could be the cheapest way to tow a car long distance, if you’re up for it.

What you’ll need:

• A solid tow vehicle
  
• The right dolly (for front-wheel drive) or trailer
  
• Patience and some towing knowledge
  

Skip this route for luxury vehicle transport, though. DIY isn’t worth the risk for high-end rides.

5. Use Membership Perks and Discounts

Belong to AAA, USAA, or even a warehouse club? These memberships often include discounts on long-distance vehicle towing.

Check for:

• Insurance add-ons that reimburse towing
  
• College student or military discounts
  
• Loyalty rewards for repeat service
  

Don’t forget to ask providers if they offer promo pricing or bundled deals for long distance auto transport.

6. Consider Terminal-to-Terminal Instead of Door-to-Door

Want a budget-friendly alternative to full-service delivery? Terminal-to-terminal might be your cheapest way to tow a car long distance.

How it saves you money:

• Less fuel used
  
• Fewer stops
  
• Less coordination needed
  

Just make sure the terminal is secure and reasonably close, so you don’t pay more to get your car the rest of the way.

7. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Booking a tow at the eleventh hour? That’s one way to overpay.

Booking 2–3 weeks in advance gets you:

• More options
  
• Lower pricing
  
• Time to compare heavy-duty transport towing providers
  

Like airfare, the earlier you plan, the better the deal.

Bonus Tip: Enclosed Shipping Isn’t Cheap—But Sometimes It’s Necessary

If you’re moving a classic, collector, or luxury car, the cheapest way to tow a car long distance isn’t your top concern; safety is. That’s where luxury transport via enclosed carriers comes in.

Why it’s worth it:

• Weather protection
  
• Full insurance
  
• Climate control (optional)

By choosing to group shipments, you’re not just cutting down on your transport costs—you’re also helping the carrier run a more efficient route, which benefits everyone involved. It’s a classic win-win. This method works best if you’re not in a hurry and can allow for a little wiggle room on pickup or drop-off timing. While it may not be ideal for delicate jobs like luxury vehicle transport, it’s a smart move if keeping costs low is your top priority. Some transport companies even offer multi-vehicle discounts, so if you’re moving more than one car, or coordinating a move for a business or family, it’s worth asking.

Leverage Online Marketplaces for Competitive Bidding

If you’re searching for the cheapest way to tow a car long distance, don’t overlook online transport marketplaces. Sites like uShip let you post your vehicle transport needs, then sit back while companies bid for your job. This turns the usual pricing model on its head—rather than you chasing quotes, carriers compete for your business, often leading to better deals. It’s a smart way to save, especially when you can compare bids side-by-side and factor in things like ratings, insurance, and past customer reviews. You stay in control of your budget and timeline, and companies work harder to offer a lower price to win your job. Just make sure you read the fine print: confirm what’s included in their offer, ask about fuel surcharges or insurance add-ons, and always verify the company’s credentials. When used wisely, bidding platforms can uncover real savings without cutting corners.

Group Shipments to Save Big

Another budget-savvy move when looking for the cheapest way to tow a car long distance? Ask about shared transport. Think of it as carpooling, but for your vehicle. If you’ve got a flexible schedule and your route lines up with others, many transport companies are happy to bundle your car with several others headed the same way. That means they save fuel and labor, and you save money. It might take an extra day or two to coordinate, but the cost savings are well worth the trade-off. This option works especially well for cross-country college moves, military transfers, or seasonal relocations times when budgets are tight and timelines are a bit more forgiving. Not all carriers advertise this upfront, so don’t be shy—ask if there’s a load leaving soon that you can join. You could end up saving hundreds just by sharing space.

Final Thoughts

Finding the cheapest way to tow a car long distance doesn’t mean sacrificing safety or service. The key is knowing your options: from open carriers and terminal deliveries to memberships and advance booking.

The cheapest solution isn’t always the fastest or most luxurious, but with smart planning, it’s absolutely possible to save hundreds.

And when you’re ready for a no-pressure quote or expert help, Specialty Hauling SVCS is here to guide the way.

Want a smooth, affordable experience from start to finish? Let us help you find the cheapest towing service that fits your needs, without the headaches. Whether you need tips, long-distance auto transport, or professional help with heavy-duty towing, we’ve got your back. Email: [email protected]
Call: 912-803-8356

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cheapest way to tow a car long distance?

Open trailer transport or a tow dolly rental are usually the lowest-cost methods.

How much will a 1,000-mile tow cost me?

Expect $1,000 to $2,000, depending on timing, method, and carrier availability.

How to get a car towed? Should I tow it myself or hire help?

If you have the right vehicle and gear, towing it yourself can save money, but it’s not ideal for long hauls or fragile cars.

Can I use open trailer transport for a luxury car?

Not recommended. Use enclosed shipping for luxury transport to avoid damage.

Will my insurance help cover long-distance towing?

Some policies include reimbursement. Call your insurer and ask—don’t assume.