Disclaimer: TowCars.com is a nationwide towing information and referral service. We don’t tow, dispatch, or store vehicles, and we aren’t responsible for the work, prices, or conduct of any towing company. If you send us a request, we pass it to independent providers who set their own prices and terms. See our disclosure.
A flatbed tow truck carries your vehicle on a flat steel deck that tilts down to the ground, so the car can be winched or driven up and then secured with all four wheels off the road. Nothing on the car turns while it travels. That is the main reason flatbeds are the default choice for many modern vehicles, and why you will often be asked about your car before a provider quotes.
How flatbed towing differs from a wheel-lift tow
A wheel-lift truck cradles and raises one axle and lets the other pair of wheels roll on the road. It is quick and works well for many front-wheel-drive cars over short distances. A flatbed takes more time to load but removes the risk that comes from spinning wheels, dragging bumpers or a driveline that should not turn with the engine off. Our vehicle weight and towing methods guide compares the methods side by side.
When you need a flatbed
- All-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles. Towing with two wheels on the ground can strain the drivetrain unless the manufacturer says otherwise.
- Electric and hybrid cars. Many makers say all wheels should be off the ground. See our EV and hybrid towing guide.
- Low or modified cars. Sports cars, lowered cars and vehicles with body kits can be damaged by a wheel-lift.
- Accident damage. A car with a broken wheel, bent suspension or loose parts is safer on a deck.
- Classic, exotic or high-value cars, where you want the least possible stress on the car.
- Longer distances, where wear from rolling wheels adds up.
Your owner’s manual usually has a towing section. If it says “flatbed only” or warns against towing with drive wheels on the ground, say so in your request.
What affects the cost of a flatbed tow
The same factors that drive any tow apply: distance, vehicle size, time of day, and extra work such as winching a car that won’t roll or using go-jacks in a tight garage. Some providers price flatbeds the same as a wheel-lift and some charge more, because loading takes longer and the truck is in higher demand.
Every provider sets its own price, so treat any figure you see online as a rough guide, not a quote. Our tow truck cost guide explains how base fees, mileage and extras fit together, and the tow cost calculator gives a ballpark range built from published rate schedules. In the calculator, choose “Flatbed” as the tow type to see how it changes the estimate. Always ask for the total in writing before work starts.
What to have ready
- Exact location, including cross streets, mile marker or the parking level in a garage.
- Year, make and model, and whether it is AWD, 4×4, electric or hybrid.
- Whether the car rolls, steers and can be shifted into neutral.
- Whether the keys are with you.
- Where you want the car taken, with the full address.
Safety tips while you wait
- Turn on your hazard lights and, if it is safe, move away from traffic. On a freeway, wait behind a barrier if there is one.
- Do not stand between your car and the flatbed while it is loading.
- Take photos of all four sides of the car before it is loaded, so you have a record of its condition.
- Remove valuables and anything loose in the cabin.
- Confirm the driver’s company name matches the one you agreed with before handing over keys.
Frequently asked questions
Not always. For many front-wheel-drive cars on a short tow, a wheel-lift is safe and can be quicker. A flatbed is the safer choice for AWD, 4×4, electric, low, damaged or valuable vehicles, or when your owner’s manual calls for one.
Some providers allow one passenger and some do not, often for insurance reasons. Ask when you get your quote so you can arrange other transport if needed.
It depends on the provider. Some charge the same rate and some add a fee for the flatbed. Ask for the total price, including mileage, before the truck is dispatched.
Often not directly, because many garages have low ceilings. The provider may need to move the car out with go-jacks or a smaller truck first. Mention the garage and its clearance in your request.
Need a flatbed? Send us your vehicle details and location and we’ll pass your request to independent providers who serve your area.