It’s usually when you least expect it. You’re involved in an accident that has left your vehicle in a sad, sorry state, or your vehicle has broken down. You’re stuck. When this happens, it’s likely time to call a towing service to get your vehicle off the road for repair, storage or disposal.
Many towing services operate in Canberra and the surrounding region, but not all are equal. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the qualities to consider when choosing a towing service, and share where to find the best ones in Canberra.
What makes a great towing service?
Choosing the right towing service can help solve your immediate problem fairly quickly, without costing you an arm and a leg. It can take the stress out of what is already an emotionally draining experience.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a towing service.
- Available 24/7. Emergencies don’t always happen at convenient times, like during business hours. You’ll want a towing service you can contact at any time of day or night, seven days a week. That’s a business that handles all types and sizes of vehicles without compromising on service.
- Reliable. The best towing companies show up on time or keep you informed if they’re running behind. This is critical if you’re stranded with your broken-down vehicle.
- Competitively priced. The best towing services are competitively priced and are willing to explain their costs in detail, so you know what you’re paying for.
- Insured. Only choose a fully insured towing company. Also, most towing companies contract to multiple insurance companies, meaning you don’t have to worry about paying enormous amounts to move your vehicle. Some will even contact your insurance company on your behalf for any payment required.
- Well-maintained tow trucks. The best towing services care about their tow trucks and equipment as much as they do their customer service. This ensures your vehicle is safe on its journey. It also gives you peace of mind that your vehicle won’t be damaged further.
The best towing services in Canberra
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Aplus Towing
Aplus Towing operates 24/7 with fast response times. A family owned and operated tilt tray business, with years of experience in the industry, Aplus Towing provides efficient, reliable service on every job. Aplus helps with local and interstate towing for all types of vehicles and all locations, using the best equipment.
Danica Fitzgibbon wrote on Google, “Really friendly and professional. Let me know when they had a small delay getting to me, but still arrived well within the estimated time.”
Quickeze Towing
Established in 1992, Quickeze Towing – family owned and operated – services Canberra, Queanbeyan, the South Coast and as far as Sydney. Its dedicated, professional team of 25 staff handle general vehicle towing and heavy machinery relocation. Response times are fast and service reliable. Quickeze Towing has a large fleet.
On Google, Adam Burns wrote, “Absolutely awesome crew. Always help us out with towing and even odd jobs ... our go-to in CBR.”
Discount Towing Canberra
Discount Towing Canberra has been towing for over 25 years, with reliable, professional experience. Service is fast and available 24/7. Discount Towing offers roadside assistance and fixes lock outs, flat batteries, flat tires and empty tanks. Trucks are maintained to the highest standards.
Raymond Robinson wrote on Google, “A tow was arranged by my insurance today ... Discount Towing contacted me immediately and were towing my car 20 minutes later. The customer service was top notch and service impeccable.”
All States Towing
All States Towing is a family business that has been servicing the ACT and the surrounding regions 24/7 for over 20 years. Services include emergency towing, interstate towing, heavy haulage and scrap car removal. All States Towing – a preferred service provider with NRMA's Roadside Assistance – is fully insured.
On Google, Brett Baxendale wrote, “Very pleased with the service offered by the team at All States Towing. They seamlessly turned a negative proposition into a positive experience. Very reliable and efficient.”
Capital Towing and Recovery
Capital Towing and Recovery, which opened in 2007, provide safe and professional towing services, backed by quality customer service. Heavy duty towing services are also available. The company has 63 items of specialised equipment and vehicles in its suite and highly trained staff.
On Google, Angus Douglas wrote, “Great experience with Capital Towing. My car was gone within three hours of making the call. The staff were friendly and helpful and the whole process went very smoothly. Highly recommend.”
If you’re looking for more information on vehicle servicing in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best car service centres, best mechanics, best panel beaters and smash repairs, and best European car mechanics Canberra has to offer. We also offer tips on the best mechanics Belconnen has to offer.
Your experience with towing services in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the towing services listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can a towing service help me with?
Towing services provide roadside assistance with vehicles that aren’t working, by taking them to another destination. This includes vehicles that have broken down, been in an accident or are improperly parked. Some towing services offer other types of roadside assistance, such as refuelling, fixing flat tyres and handling lockouts.
Does my car insurance cover towing?
You need to check your insurance policy to determine whether towing services are included and, if so, what types of roadside assistance. Many insurance providers do cover a range of towing services.
Can I leave my car with the towing company?
When calling a towing service, ask about this up-front. Many towing companies have a store yard and can hold your vehicle for you. Ask about related costs for keeping your car, however. Also ask how long you have until you need to collect your car.
What kinds of vehicle can the towing service take?
A great towing service can handle vehicles of all kinds, including motorcycles, vans, utes and cars of all shapes, sizes and makes. However, if you need a heavy vehicle moved, check with the towing service as this can involve special machinery that not all companies may have.
How much does it cost to have a vehicle towed?
The best towing services are competitively priced and willing to explain their costs, so you know what you’re paying for. Price varies depending on multiple factors. These include where your vehicle is, what type of vehicle it is (and how much it weighs), where it needs to go and even how urgently you need the service. It’s wise to ask for a precise quote.