How Much Does It Cost to Purchase a Tow Truck?

If you’re considering getting into the towing business, or you’re in the industry but haven’t bought new vehicles for some time, you may wonder, “How much does it cost to purchase a tow truck?” As you might expect, there’s no simple answer to that question. The price of a tow truck depends on several factors, including its size, type, age, and features.

This article breaks down the costs to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when you’re researching new or used tow trucks for sale in Columbus or around the state.

The Cost of a New Tow Truck

When you buy a new vehicle, you’re paying for the latest technology, a full warranty, and the peace of mind that comes with a truck that has no prior wear and tear. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay for different types of new tow trucks:

• Slide-in wheel lifts. These are attachments for pickup trucks and are a good entry point into the business. You can expect to spend around $13,000 for the attachment itself, not including the truck.
• Wrecker tow trucks. These are the traditional hook-and-chain or wheel-lift trucks. Prices for new wreckers can range from $65,000 to $115,000. The final cost will depend on the features you choose, such as a boom, wheel lift, forks, and light bars.
• Flatbed tow trucks. Also known as rollback trucks, these are versatile and in high demand. A new flatbed can cost between $75,000 and $130,000.
• Heavy-duty tow trucks. If you plan on towing large vehicles like semi-trucks and buses, you’ll need a heavy-duty wrecker. These are the most expensive, with prices ranging from $200,000 to over $750,000, and sometimes even over $1,000,000 for specialized rotator trucks.

The Cost of a Used Tow Truck

Buying a used tow truck can be a smart way to save money, but it’s important to do your research to ensure you’re getting a reliable vehicle. The price of used tow trucks for sale in Columbus and other areas can vary widely based on the truck’s age, mileage, condition, and features. Here’s a general idea of what you might find:

• Light-duty used tow trucks. You can often find used light-duty wreckers and flatbeds for anywhere from $25,000 to $60,000.
• Medium-duty used tow trucks. For a medium-duty truck, you can expect to pay between $40,000 and $90,000.
• Heavy-duty used tow trucks. Used heavy-duty trucks are still a significant investment, with prices often ranging from $70,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on their age and condition.

How Profitable Is Owning a Tow Truck?

Now we’ve answered the question, “How much does it cost to purchase a tow truck?” Let’s move on to talk about the potential return on your investment. The profitability of owning a tow truck depends on several factors, including your location, the services you offer, and your business model.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Steady demand. People will always need towing services due to accidents, breakdowns, and other unforeseen circumstances. This creates a consistent demand for your services.
• Multiple revenue streams. You can offer a variety of services to increase your income, such as roadside assistance (including jump-starts, tire changes, and lockouts), private property impounds, and long-distance towing.
• Operating costs. It’s important to factor in your ongoing expenses, which will include fuel, insurance, maintenance, and marketing. A well-maintained truck will have lower repair costs, so whether you buy new or used, be sure to keep up with regular maintenance.
• Building a reputation. As you build a reputation for reliable and professional service, you can increase your rates and attract more customers. Networking with local law enforcement, auto repair shops, and motor clubs can also help you grow your business.

So, how profitable is owning a tow truck? With the right business plan and a reliable vehicle, owning a tow truck can be a very lucrative venture.

Finding the Right Truck for Your Business

Whether you’re looking for a brand-new, top-of-the-line wrecker or one of the many used tow trucks for sale in Columbus, it’s important to find a truck that meets your specific needs and budget.

As explained above, first, you need to understand how much it costs to purchase a tow truck. The next step is to consider how profitable owning a tow truck is in your location and how that service fits with your other offerings. With some research and a solid business plan, you can make a smart tow truck investment that will pay off for years to come.

If you’re ready to explore your options for a new or used tow truck, we can help. Get in touch with us to discuss what you’re looking for. We can show you our inventory and explain the process for purchasing a tow truck from Robertson Truck Group. You’ll find that we will make it easy to get the equipment you need, so you can focus on growing your business.