Does insurance cover towing costs in Brisbane?

Comprehensive car insurance policies in Australia often include roadside assistance or towing cover. Check your policy documents or call your insurer before paying out of pocket.

Can I negotiate towing prices?

With reputable operators, the price is usually fixed and fair. Be very cautious of operators who dramatically lower their price when pushed — it often means the original quote was predatory.

What is the average cost to tow a car 10km in Brisbane?

For a standard sedan towed 10km during business hours, expect to pay $120–$180 all-inclusive with a reputable Brisbane towing company.

Towing Costs Brisbane 2026 | Tow Truck Price Guide

Towing prices in Brisbane vary wildly — from $120 to $600+ for the same job. Here's how to understand what you're paying for and avoid getting ripped off.

1The Standard Towing Price Structure

Most Brisbane towing companies charge using one of two models: a flat rate for local tows (typically within 10–15km), or a callout fee plus a per-kilometre rate. The callout fee covers the truck's travel to your location and typically ranges from $80–$150. The per-km rate then applies from your vehicle's location to the destination, usually $3–$6 per km.

Pro tip: Always ask: "Is that the total price, or is there a per-km charge on top?" Get the answer in writing (text message is fine).

2What Affects the Price

Vehicle type: Standard sedans and hatchbacks are cheapest. SUVs, 4WDs, and utes cost more due to weight and equipment requirements. Prestige and sports cars requiring flatbed towing attract a premium. Time of day: After-hours (typically 6pm–6am), weekends, and public holidays attract surcharges of 20–50% on most operators. Distance: Long-distance towing (e.g., Brisbane to Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast) is priced differently — usually a flat rate per route. Accessibility: If your vehicle is in a difficult location (underground carpark, steep driveway, accident scene), expect additional charges.

3After-Hours and Emergency Towing

Emergency towing at 2am on a Sunday will cost more than a weekday afternoon job — that's just the reality. Expect to pay 30–50% more for after-hours callouts. However, be wary of operators who use "emergency" as an excuse to charge whatever they like. A reputable company will still give you a clear quote before proceeding, regardless of the hour.

4Storage Fees: The Hidden Cost

If your vehicle needs to be stored at a tow yard (e.g., after an accident or if you can't arrange immediate repairs), storage fees apply. In Queensland, these are regulated but can still add up quickly — typically $30–$80 per day. Always arrange to have your vehicle collected or moved to a repairer as quickly as possible to minimise storage costs.

Pro tip: Ask the towing company upfront: "Do you charge storage fees, and when do they start?" Some operators offer free storage for the first 24 hours.

5What Car Towing Services Brisbane Charges

We believe in transparent, upfront pricing. Our standard local tow (up to 15km) starts from $150 all-inclusive. Long-distance towing is quoted per route with no hidden fees. We don't charge extra for after-hours callouts on our standard rates — the price you're quoted is the price you pay. Call 0469 264 626 for a free, no-obligation quote.

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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.