When your car breaks down or you’re stranded on the road, the first thing that comes to mind is: How much will this tow cost me? It’s a fair question—no one wants to be caught off guard with an expensive bill. If you live in Calgary or are just passing through, knowing the average cost of towing services can save you stress, money, and time.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about towing costs in Calgary, including average rates, what factors affect the price, and how to make sure you’re not overpaying.
Understanding Towing Services in Calgary
Towing services are more than just pulling a broken car from the roadside. In Calgary, towing companies often provide a wide range of roadside assistance, such as:
- Flatbed towing
- Accident recovery
- Long-distance towing
- Emergency roadside help (jumpstarts, tire changes, lockouts, fuel delivery)
- Heavy-duty towing for trucks and commercial vehicles
Because services vary, so do the costs. That’s why it’s important to understand the basics before calling a towing company.
The Average Cost of Towing in Calgary
On average, towing Calgary costs between $80 and $120 for the first 5 to 10 kilometers, with an additional $2 to $5 per kilometer afterward.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Local Tow (within 10 km): $80 – $120
- Medium Distance Tow (20–40 km): $150 – $250
- Long Distance Tow (50+ km): $200 – $400+
- Heavy-Duty Tow (large trucks/buses): $250 – $600+
Keep in mind that prices may increase if you need towing during peak traffic, late at night, or in extreme weather conditions (like Calgary’s winter storms).
Factors That Affect Towing Prices
Not all towing jobs are the same. Here are the biggest factors that affect your final bill:
1. Distance
The farther your car needs to be towed, the higher the cost. Short city tows are cheaper than long highway hauls.
2. Vehicle Type
A standard sedan is cheaper to tow than an SUV, truck, or commercial vehicle, which require more specialized equipment.
3. Time of Day
Emergency calls in the middle of the night or on holidays usually come with an extra charge.
4. Service Type
Flatbed towing costs more than wheel-lift towing but is often safer for luxury or AWD vehicles.
5. Location
If your car is stuck in a ditch, snowbank, or an accident scene, expect recovery fees on top of the base price.
6. Roadside Assistance Needed
Sometimes you don’t need a full tow—just a jumpstart, tire change, or fuel delivery. These services usually cost $50–$100 depending on the issue.
How to Save Money on Towing in Calgary?
Nobody likes unexpected expenses, but here are some practical tips to keep towing costs under control:
- Check if insurance covers towing. Many auto insurance policies include roadside assistance.
- Look for roadside memberships. Programs like AMA or CAA often provide free or discounted tows.
- Choose a local company. A Calgary-based towing service will usually cost less than one coming from outside the city.
- Ask for an estimate upfront. Reputable companies like KTC Towing are transparent about pricing.
- Regular maintenance. Avoid breakdowns in the first place by keeping your car in good shape.
Why Choose KTC Towing in Calgary?
At KTC Towing, we understand that breakdowns are stressful. That’s why we provide 24/7 emergency towing and roadside assistance in Calgary at fair, upfront prices. Our team is professional, quick, and equipped to handle everything from small sedans to heavy-duty trucks.
With KTC Towing, you get:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Fast response times across Calgary (NE, NW, SE & SW)
- 24/7 emergency towing and roadside help
- Skilled drivers who put safety first
When you’re stranded, you don’t just need a tow—you need peace of mind. That’s what we deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does it cost to tow a car in Calgary?
On average, local towing within Calgary costs $80–$120, plus extra for longer distances.
2. Do towing companies charge more at night?
Yes, emergency late-night or holiday tows often come with additional fees.
3. Can I get roadside assistance without towing?
Absolutely! Services like jumpstarts, tire changes, and fuel delivery typically cost $50–$100.
4. Is towing covered by insurance in Calgary?
It depends on your policy. Many insurers offer towing coverage, so check with your provider.
5. Who is the best towing company in Calgary?
Many companies operate in Calgary, but KTC Towing is trusted for its 24/7 availability, fair pricing, and professional service.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the average cost of a towing service in Calgary? You can expect to pay around $80–$120 for a short tow, with costs rising for longer distances, bigger vehicles, or emergency calls.
The key takeaway? Always plan ahead. Save the number of a trusted towing company like KTC Towing in your phone so you’re never left scrambling when the unexpected happens.
When your car breaks down, remember—it’s not just about cost, it’s about safety, reliability, and peace of mind.