What to Expect During a Long Distance Tow

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Long Distance Tow

When your vehicle breaks down far from home or you need to transport it across Ontario—or even across the country—a long-distance tow becomes necessary. Unlike local towing, long-distance towing involves additional planning, safety considerations, and costs. At Pars Towing, serving Aurora and the wider Ontario region, we specialize in safe and efficient long-distance towing services.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a long-distance tow, including preparation, the towing process, costs, and how to choose the right towing company.

What to Expect During a Long Distance Tow

1. Understanding Long-Distance Towing

Long-distance towing typically refers to transporting a vehicle over 100 miles (160 km) or across provincial lines. This service is often needed for:

  • Cross-country relocations
  • Delivering a newly purchased vehicle
  • Transporting a non-operational car to a specialist mechanic
  • Moving a classic or luxury car safely

Unlike short-distance tows, long-distance towing requires specialized equipment, experienced drivers, and careful logistics to ensure your vehicle arrives safely.

2. Preparing Your Vehicle for a Long-Distance Tow

Proper preparation helps prevent damage and ensures a smooth towing process. Here’s what you should do before the tow truck arrives:

A. Remove Personal Belongings

Most towing companies (including Pars Towing) recommend removing valuables and loose items from your vehicle. This minimizes the risk of theft or damage during transit.

B. Document Pre-Existing Damage

Take clear photos of your vehicle from multiple angles before the tow. This provides proof of its condition in case of any disputes later.

C. Check Fluid Levels and Mechanical Condition

If your car is operational, ensure there are no leaks (oil, coolant, etc.) that could worsen during transport. For non-running vehicles, inform the towing company so they can use the right equipment.

D. Secure Loose Parts

Close windows, retract antennas, and secure any loose body panels or accessories to prevent damage.

E. Provide Necessary Documents

Have your registration and proof of ownership ready, especially if crossing provincial borders.

3. Choosing the Right Towing Method

Long-distance towing can be done in several ways, depending on your vehicle’s condition and budget:

  • Your vehicle is loaded onto a flat, open trailer.
  • Best for luxury, classic, or all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles.
  • Prevents wear and tear on tires and transmission.

B. Wheel-Lift Towing

  • The tow truck lifts either the front or rear wheels off the ground.
  • Suitable for short to medium distances but not ideal for very long hauls.

C. Enclosed Transport (For High-Value Vehicles)

  • Protects your car from weather, debris, and road grime.
  • Often used for exotic cars, antiques, or high-end vehicles.

At Pars Towing, we assess your vehicle’s needs and recommend the best towing method for safe transport.

4. The Long-Distance Towing Process

Once you’ve scheduled your tow, here’s what happens next:

A. Pickup Arrangement

  • The towing company will confirm the pickup location and time.
  • A professional driver will inspect your vehicle before loading it.

B. Securing the Vehicle

  • The driver will use straps, wheel chocks, and other restraints to keep your car stable.
  • For flatbed towing, the vehicle is carefully driven or winched onto the trailer.

C. Transit and Tracking

  • Many companies (including Pars Towing) provide GPS tracking so you can monitor your vehicle’s progress.
  • The driver will follow the safest and most efficient route.

D. Delivery and Inspection

  • Upon arrival, inspect your vehicle for any new damage (compare it to your pre-tow photos).
  • Sign a delivery confirmation form only after verifying everything is in order.

5. How Much Does Long-Distance Towing Cost?

Long-distance towing costs vary based on:

  • Distance traveled (per-mile/km rate)
  • Type of vehicle (larger/heavier vehicles cost more)
  • Towing method (flatbed vs. wheel-lift, enclosed transport)
  • Season and demand (winter towing may be more expensive)

Average Costs in Ontario:

  • 1.50−1.50−3.50 per km for standard towing
  • 1,000−1,000−2,500+ for cross-country transport

At Pars Towing, we provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Request a free quote before booking.

Long Distance Tow

6. Safety and Insurance Considerations

A. Verify the Towing Company’s Credentials

  • Ensure they are licensed and insured in Ontario.
  • Check reviews and ask for references.

B. Insurance Coverage

  • Some auto insurance policies include towing coverage.
  • Confirm whether the towing company offers additional cargo insurance.

C. Driver Experience

Long-distance towing requires skilled drivers familiar with highway regulations and safe transport practices.

7. Why Choose Pars Towing for Long-Distance Towing in Aurora & Ontario?

At Pars Towing, we pride ourselves on:
24/7 availability for emergency and scheduled long-distance tows
Fully licensed and insured operators
Modern flatbed trucks for safe vehicle transport
Competitive pricing with upfront quotes
GPS tracking so you know where your vehicle is at all times

Whether you’re moving across Ontario or need a cross-country tow, we handle your vehicle with care.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does a long-distance tow take?

A: It depends on distance, weather, and route. A 500 km tow may take 6-8 hours, while cross-Canada transport could take several days.

Q: Can I ride in my car during a long-distance tow?

A: No, for safety reasons, passengers are not allowed in a towed vehicle.

Q: What if my car breaks down during the tow?

A: Reputable companies (like Pars Towing) perform pre-tow inspections to prevent this. If an issue arises, they will address it safely.

Q: Do you tow motorcycles or RVs long-distance?

A: Yes, we provide specialized towing for motorcycles, RVs, and other large vehicles.

Conclusion

Long-distance towing requires careful planning, the right equipment, and a trusted towing provider. By understanding the process, costs, and safety measures, you can ensure a smooth experience when transporting your vehicle.

For reliable long distance towing in Aurora and across Ontario, contact Pars Towing today. We’re here to get your vehicle where it needs to go—safely and on time.

📞 Call us now for a free quote!

Safe travels, and trust Pars Towing for all your long-distance towing needs!

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