The wrong tow truck can damage your car, overcharge you, or leave you stranded. Here's how to pick a towing company you can actually trust in Brisbane.
11. Check Their Licensing and Insurance
In Queensland, tow truck operators must hold a current Tow Truck Licence issued by the Department of Transport and Main Roads. Ask for their licence number before they touch your vehicle. Additionally, confirm they carry public liability insurance and goods-in-transit insurance — this protects your vehicle if it's damaged during transport.
Pro tip: You can verify a Queensland tow truck licence at the TMR website. Takes 30 seconds and could save you thousands.
22. Ask About Their Response Time
A towing company that can't give you a realistic ETA is a red flag. Reputable operators will give you a specific window — not "we'll be there when we can." In Brisbane's traffic, 30–45 minutes is a reasonable standard for most areas. If they're quoting 2+ hours for a non-remote location, keep calling.
33. Confirm They Have the Right Equipment
Not every tow truck can handle every vehicle. A standard wheel-lift truck is fine for most sedans, but if you drive a prestige car, 4WD, or low-clearance sports car, you need a flatbed (tilt-tray) truck. Motorcycle towing requires specialised cradles. Always describe your vehicle type when you call.
Pro tip: For prestige vehicles like BMWs, Mercedes, or Porsches, always insist on a flatbed — wheel-lift towing can damage the drivetrain.
44. Get a Price Upfront — In Writing
Predatory towing is a real problem in Queensland. Some operators quote a low callout fee then add "storage fees," "after-hours surcharges," and "fuel levies" that triple the final bill. Always ask for a total price before they hook up your vehicle. A reputable company will give you a clear, all-inclusive quote.
55. Read Their Google Reviews
Google reviews are the most reliable signal of a towing company's real-world performance. Look for recent reviews (last 6 months), check how they respond to negative feedback, and look for patterns — consistent praise for speed and professionalism is a great sign. A 4.8+ rating with 100+ reviews is the gold standard.
66. Check Their Availability
Breakdowns don't follow business hours. Confirm the company operates 24/7, including public holidays. Some operators advertise 24/7 but route after-hours calls to an answering service with no actual trucks available. Call them at an odd hour before you need them — if a real person answers, that's a good sign.
77. Ask About Their Coverage Area
Some towing companies only operate in specific suburbs and will charge a premium or refuse jobs outside their zone. Make sure the company covers your location — and your destination. If you need long-distance towing (e.g., Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast), confirm they handle that route before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dave Nguyen
Owner & Lead Operator, Car Towing Services Brisbane
Dave has been towing vehicles across Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, and the Gold Coast for over 15 years. He founded Car Towing Services Brisbane with one rule: treat every customer's car like it's your own.