“How to Start a Towing Business?”
Comment Page 2

  • Gordo said on October 24, 2009
    I am starting a tow truck business in British Columbia and have no experience at all. Is there any good manuals or suggestions?
  • Brown's said on October 24, 2009
    I am starting a new towing business in Annapolis Maryland would like to start a new career and hire drivers as well any advice help in starting the business would be nice...
  • Melissa said on October 26, 2009
    Hello, We just started a towing business in Alabama. I am interested in finding out the laws in Alabama for owning & operating a towing business. Is there a site where I can look up vehicle vin #'s ? If so can you please give it to me. Any information is greatly appreciated.
  • Orilitoteelve said on October 27, 2009
    I want to donate my car to a charity. I do want to receive a tax deduction, but I don't want it to go to just any charity I would very much like my car to go to a needy family. I am in the Houton area. Can anybody help me or have any suggestions.
  • Beverly said on October 27, 2009
    ME AND MY HUSBAND ARE CURRENTLY TRYING TO START UP A TOWING BUSINESS. RIGHT NOW I AM TAKING A BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CLASS AND WE ARE LOOKING FOR ANY KIND OF INFO YOU MIGHT BE ABLE TO PROVIDE TO HELP US OUT. WE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE IS ANYWAY WE COULD GET GRANTS TO HELP US START IT UP. WE LIVE IN GA. ANY HELP WOULD GREATLY BE APPRECIATED. THANKS . BSINGLEY72@YAHOO.COM
  • Mike said on October 28, 2009
    I LIVE IN FLORIDA AND I'M LOOKING INTO STARTING A TOWING COMPANY. I BEEN LOOKING INTO THE OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE FOR TOWING, I'M ALSO LOOKING AT A FEW TRUCKS. MY QUESTIONS ARE. DO I NEED A CONSENTUAL TOWING LICENSE IN ADDITION TO THE OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE? AND WHERE WOULD I BE ABLE TO APPLY FOR THAT? IF THE ANSWER IS NO. THEN WHERE DO I APPLY FOR NONCONSENTUAL LICENSE. THANKS
  • keith said on October 28, 2009
    interested in starting a towing transport/roadside assistance business in baltimore, md area my plan is to start with a flatbed/repo any help in starting the business would be greatly appreciated
  • bruce taylor said on November 5, 2009
    I'm looking to start a tow truck business in athens GA. where do i start. i just stated a garage and would now like to tow cars
  • bruce taylor said on November 5, 2009
    want to start a towing company in Athens Ga.
  • JstBnMe said on November 5, 2009
    Don't mean to be rude, but if you have to ask so many questions, perhaps you should try something else. Towing is not a game, and if you've never done it, leave it alone. One accident, and it's law suit city. 24/7, long hours, and you won't get rich, unless you invest tons of money, that takes years to recover. Good Luck to ya...
  • TowDreams beginner adviser said on November 5, 2009
    OK most of ya have the same idea. Contact your states DOT, or City Courthouse, or County seats, with your questions. If you do basic tows, you'll be okay, start with cheap used truck, you don't need big payments from the start. Big shock, insurance is outrageous. Extreme, if you want a storage yard. Repo dreamers, you probably need special state permit, and secured lot. It's not cheap, the bigger you start, the more, you'll need, to start. Please make sure you know what your getting into. Not a part time job, by no means...lots of missed dinners, and family time. The more drivers you hire, the less for you. I live in a small town in Central Fl, there 6 companies here. seems everybody wants their own. Got 10K, I can do one here...LOL, gonna piss competition off, cutting rates, then gotta watch my back...see it's rough, from all angles. Trying to get you to see, Be serious and know what you are doing. Freedom don't come free
  • antonio watson said on November 18, 2009
    jacksonville, florida, duavl county. i want to to know how to get started a towing business here in jacksonville and whats the normal towing prices for the state of florida?
  • ramon .a. said on November 19, 2009
    want to start independent tow truck company how much will it cost for plates, licenses, insurance, and any other things i might need to know. i'm located in Chicago, please any body out there with answers let me know what u know about the business
  • Shawn said on November 25, 2009
    I am interested in starting a repo business in arkansas any information on grants would be helpful on getting this venture under way
  • Octavia said on December 7, 2009
    how can i start a towing business in San Jose, CA 95111
  • Kaitlyn Hilliard said on December 10, 2009
    i need help writing a business plan to get a loan for our new towing company. can you help? Painesville, Ohio 44077
  • David Garcia said on December 16, 2009
    What would I need to start up a towing business in Connecticut? Meriden, CT, US
  • Vince said on December 16, 2009
    As most everyone else here I am looking for help and information on starting a towing company in NY. if you have anything that could help me please send me an email voginski@hotmail.com
  • Sally said on December 16, 2009
    Why don't you inform folks that they can get on the rotation list of their local police dept as well as with DPS as long as their truck passes inspection and all other licenses, insurance etc.. is in order?
  • jerome johnson said on December 21, 2009
    chicago, illinois, usa. i was trying to find out where do i get info on obtaining a grant for a tow trunk and to start a tow business, and info on insurance.
  • Shaun Bell said on December 23, 2009
    Holland Mi, usa. I am trying to get info on starting a towing business
  • Glenn said on December 25, 2009
    Looking to start a towing and repo service, needing info on lic, insurance and any other help you can give. located in Panama Fla.
  • john xiong said on December 25, 2009
    How do I go about starting a tow business in hudson wi. How much would it cost to start off a small business?
  • Coolbreeze said on December 25, 2009
    I would like to start an auto transport/tow company in Charlottesville Va. I have limited resources but a lot of know how and drive. Any suggestions?
  • banta said on December 30, 2009
    Hi, how i can start tow business in Colorado Aurora and how much cost.
  • Latrese said on January 2, 2010
    I would like to know how to start the tow business in Clinton, Maryland?
  • isael herdez said on January 2, 2010
    i'm ready to have the tow truck but i don't know how to start the business in minneapolis, mn?
  • maria said on January 2, 2010
    i want to start a towing business in Greensboro, NC (usa)
  • KC said on January 3, 2010
    I am a serious buyer looking to acquire a towing business in Colorado, Northern Nevada, Northern Calif. Please advise. Also I am researching the most prudent way to evaluate an ongoing tow business. Any info from anybody would be appreciated. kennethnclark@comcast.net. (979)-729-0471 Thanks KC
  • Brandon said on January 3, 2010
    Hi my name is Brandon. I would like to get into the repo business. But the only problem is I don't have any experience and I know in the state of California is which where I live in is that you have to have 2 years of experience before you can get your recovery license. All I want to do is get out there and get experience under my belt if anyone needed help in southern California I'm willing to help you. You don't have to pay me or anything all I want is the experience and to learn the trade. I have a full time job and I could only do it at night or on the weekends. Any info would be great. Thank you and have a nice day. My email is swatteam1984@sbcglobal.net
  • misty said on January 4, 2010
    new tow co. greeneville tn. we just started, takes more than we thought. u need to get truck, insurance, dot and mc numbers(prices vary for those two) shop around, please/ ADVERTISE ADVERTISE ADVERTISE
  • misty said on January 4, 2010
    PS... TO GET FINANCING, GO TO CREDIT UNION...THEY WILL HELP, MAKE SURE TRUCK IS CLEAN AND IN GREAT RUNNING CONDITION
  • jackie said on January 5, 2010
    how can i start a towing company in los angeles, california, USA
  • mimi said on January 7, 2010
    Interested in starting a towing business in Charlotte, NC? Where do i go for licensing?
  • Bernard Block said on January 8, 2010
    I am interested in starting a tow truck business in the San Francisco bay area California U.S, would like information on state funding and how to obtain towing contracts
  • erica said on January 9, 2010
    i want to start a tow truck service in chicago, but don't know where to start. can someone help please. thanks, Erica
  • Andra' King said on January 10, 2010
    I am interested in starting a tow truck business in the metropoliton area Marylan,Va and Washington DC. I would like some information on grants and what license do i need to start the business.
  • Oleg said on January 11, 2010
    I am trying to open tow truck business, I just bought a tow truck a week ago and dont know what to do next, please help me, i need to know what do i need and what to do step by step.
  • Kimberly McAllister said on January 12, 2010
    My husband want to learn how to start a towing service in St.Louis Mo. Can you please give some advice of where I need to start?
  • Brandon Blair said on January 18, 2010
    Currently have commercial property and it is in my interest to start a towing and repo company. I was hoping for info on how to research my demographic and any tips in writing the business plan that would help acquire start up capital. Thanks
  • joey said on January 19, 2010
    I need to know how to start a towing business and how much it cost
  • nisha said on January 20, 2010
    west yorkshire batley, can you please tell me how much i need to start the business with and also how do i get police contract
  • Towman09 beginner adviser said on January 24, 2010
    TO SCOTT M ABOUT STARTING A COMPANY IN PINELLAS COUNTY. I would not suggest you waste your time and money honestly. If you haven't done this before, you definitely do not want to compete against the couple of companies in the Tampa Bay area. Look into getting certifications and your license to operate trucks. Try to get on with Stepps, Clearwater Towing, 1st Response Towing or even All Points Towing. There is another one that runs around south end of Pinellas but I can't think of who they are right now.
  • Lee said on January 26, 2010
    I was wondering how much capital wold i need just to buy 1 tow truck. Sacramento, CA
  • Stacey oliver said on January 26, 2010
    Hello I'm trying to start my own tow truck business in westchester county Yonkers, NY. I want to know if u can give me some insite on how to get started and how do I go about getting a license and just some tips that can help to succeed. Thank you and I will be looking forward to hearing from u.
  • luis said on January 27, 2010
    I am planning to start a tow truck business in PA, where can I get funding to start my business. send me info at lrod250@gmail.com
  • Susan C said on January 28, 2010
    I am looking to start a towing business but also a tire repair on-call service...what am i looking at as far as loans or even grants that would be available to me? What am i looking at of total expense for everything?
  • Nick Tyler said on January 29, 2010
    my name is Nick Tyler just retired from working as a principal consultant in an oil company in dubai. My wife and I are trying to start a towing company in FLORIDA, CALIFORNIA, TEXAS, NEVADA AND NEW YORK as the finance won't be a problem. in doing this we just recently contacted Dennis Slagle the C.E.O OF Truck World at Greensboro, North Carolina for the supply of 26 Dump Trucks a week ago. We need more info and ideas about the business and marketing. Please help with vital tips that can help to succeed, Nick and Stacey Tyler
  • richard said on January 29, 2010
    My name is richard, i live in florida i'm looking to start a tow truck business in ft lauderdale fl i need more info and ideas about the business and marketing. Please help with vital tips that can help to succeed. please feel free to email at trdorolla@aim.com thanks you have a great day.
  • Joshua said on January 30, 2010
    My name is Joshua I live in Denver Colorado and I want to start a tow truck business how do i go about getting started how do I get a license what about loans and grants I need more info and ideas about the business, marking please help with vital tips that can help to succeed, feel free to email looking forward to hearing from you
  • caude reid said on January 30, 2010
    i just bought a tow truck about a week ago and i am trying to open tow truck business, and dont know what to do next, please help me, i need to know what do i need and what to do step by step. I live in Lithona, GA thanks for your help.
  • Rob Harbaum said on January 31, 2010
    I would like as much information as possible on starting a tow truck business. I would like info on starting, financing, licensing, and what ever else I may need to know. Thank you so much. I live in a small town in the Upper Penninsula of MI.
  • mike said on February 4, 2010
    MADILL, OKLAHOMA. i am about to buy a used wrecker and start my own business but dot says i got to have $100,000 insurance policy on the truck how much will it cost me per month to have it ?
  • shawn stewart said on February 5, 2010
    want to start my own towing business in columbia, tennessee. what do i need to do, what kind of insurance, permits, how to get dot numbers, i already have CDL-A is there anything else?
  • Sandra said on February 8, 2010
    Hi my husband and I are looking to start a tow business in San Francisco, California we have already purchased a used tow truck. we will start with one truck for now and hopefully add as we go along, I would appreciate any and as much info on getting started and what steps to take and where to start. Thanks
  • Bruce Carlisle beginner adviser said on February 8, 2010
    I am trying to start a business near Pittsburgh, Pa. towing cars, scrapping cars, road service, etc.. I am trying to do this with an F250 HD, and a slide-in sling boom, or a tilt-deck car trailer. So far all I have been told is all the reasons this would be illegal, or impractical. Can anyone give advice on this? A partner in this area might make this easier. Thank You. Sorry, I just found this site, my Email is: miss06kitty@hotmail.com The idea here is to get into car-hauling with little money, and no credit.
  • Angrie said on February 8, 2010
    Hi, located in rockland county ny, trying to get information on towing/repos and small business grants from government. for startup business in the rockand/orange as well as bergen counties. Any information is appreciated.
  • Bruce Carlisle beginner adviser said on February 9, 2010
    Let me follow-up with this information. I see a lot of people on here get a truck without knowledge of the tow industry. I am the opposite, I am connected in with the biggest towing company in Pittsburgh, I have the jobs, work, and connections all lined up to start making a MINIMUM of $700 a week, IF I COULD GET MY HANDS ON A ROLL-BACK!! This is daytime only, 5 days a week. If anyone has a roll-back just sitting, maybe we can work something out. If someone has 2 roll-backs, I can offer them the same job and salary! Thanks.
  • Luis said on February 9, 2010
    I am looking to start a tow business in Frisco Texas, what do I need to do first, if you could please help me. Thank's
  • joyce turner said on February 10, 2010
    I am planning to start a tow truck business in NC, where can i get funding for this and send me everything there is to get started. Thank you
  • JESUS SANCHEZ said on February 12, 2010
    HI! MY NAME IS JESUS SANCHEZ, AND I AM LOOKING TO START A TOW TRUCK BUSINESS IN LOS ANGELES CA, WHERE CAN I GET FUNDING FOR THIS AND GET STARTED, THANK YOU.....
  • matt vest said on February 13, 2010
    hi i'm here in western colorado. i'm trying to start a tow company. and im looking for grants, and all info need thanks for all they help in advance..
  • blake said on February 13, 2010
    I AM IN ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE TOWING BUSINESS I ALREADY HAVE CDL - I NEED TO KNOW WHAT ELSE I NEED TO DO THE TOWING AND ALSO IF THERE ARE ANY GRANTS TO START UP THE BUSINESS AND HOW AND WHERE ARE THEY LOCATED SO THAT WE MAY DO FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THANKS
  • joe burciaga said on February 17, 2010
    i'm wanting to start a repo business here in corpus cristy tx. my only problem is i dont know how much the licenses are or who to talk to get them. if any one can help me just e-mail me at joeburciaga@yahoo.com
  • Dennis beginner adviser said on February 24, 2010
    Starting a towing company can be a challenging process. As excited as you may be to get the wheels rolling and the cash coming in, there are a few things you may want to consider before opening your doors.

    1. What kind of company are you looking to build? Diversity in sources of business is important when running a towing company. The old adage “Don’t keep all of your eggs in one basket” holds true for the towing industry as well. Understanding the potential sources of business and how profitable they each are can be helpful in determining how successful you will be from the start. Police, motor club, auction, cash customers, account customers and private property accounts all have unique business demands and asset requirements. Be sure to consider just how each source will play a part in your business both now and in the future.

    2. Buying trucks and paying for rent, employees and liability insurance will consume the lion’s share of your revenues. And it sure is expensive to be paying for these items when few calls are coming in. One great keystone of any towing company is providing service to the local police and fire departments. Check with their contacts to see how to get on the lists. If it isn’t possible to get onto the list for a few months it may make sense to wait. Municipal lists are a steady and profitable customer but don’t count on that revenue until you know you can get on the provider list. Every police department has a vehicle officer or contact in charge of the towing process. Get their name and make them your friend.

    3. Build a brand, not just a company. With an overabundance of towing companies to choose from consumers often select companies at random to call for a quote. Make your business stand out by having a good name and strong marketing plan. Having these in place before you start spending on advertising will make that money work harder for you. And be careful when committing to long-term contracts like annual yellow page business directories and online advertising commitments. Ask what you can expect in return for your money and remember, much of this can be done yourself for little or no expense.

    4. Start building your contacts now. Your company doesn’t have to be up and running to print business cards and go around introducing yourself to potential customers. Tell them you are launching in 3 months but wanted to understand what they look for in a good company. It will show your dedication to providing a good product as well as provide you with some insight on how to better compete with your future fellow industry professionals.

    I ran a successful tow company for several years and know much of what you will need to do is not difficult work, it’s just hard work. Being committed to being the best and being professional will give you a huge boost over your competition. After selling my company I created TowProgram.com as a way to help new and existing towing companies become more profitable. The program is an educational tool that simply, easily and effectively tackles the biggest challenges tow companies face. It covers:
    - Cost-effectively building a strong brand to make your company stand out
    - Easily computing costs and revenue per call leading you to greater profits
    - Adding automation methods to help your business run more efficiently
    - Better managing employee relations
    - Preparing your business for a profitable sale
  • Alex Manette said on February 24, 2010
    Would like to know what the requirements are to start a tow truck business in Orlando/Kissimee area... Florida Thanks
  • larry alexander said on February 25, 2010
    I want to start a towing and recovery service in snellville GA, I would like to know the prerequisites to tow legally send me an e-mail please
  • kris said on February 26, 2010
    I would like to start a small tow truck business how would i get the funding and how should i start in ohio thanks
  • shaun carrero said on March 1, 2010
    orlando, Florida. i have a lot of the start up capital but if i need the rest how would i get it? How do i go about get the license and insurance for the truck? Thanks
  • Ron said on March 2, 2010
    would like information for permits and licensing in Kansas, any info will be helpful Kansas USA
  • rob said on March 2, 2010
    Hello I'm interested in starting a small towing service here in las vegas nv . Could anybody help me the steps I should take first prior to buying a tow truck. I'm planing on buying one flatbed first and see where it goes from there. Please reply to me for any helpful advice, Thank you. Robsnlvegas@cox.net
  • sandy said on March 4, 2010
    I want to start a tow service in dc/maryland but. I dont know where to start looking for information on the business, can you tell me the next step how to start my business. Please send me basic information to start the business. My email pattersonsan@yahoo.com
  • sharad said on March 8, 2010
    I want to start towing business in lexington and columbia area in s.c. one person is selling his flat bed truck. can you send me some information regarding how to get in business.
  • rude dowg 989 said on March 8, 2010
    i just bought a tow truck, i know nothing about how much to charge for a tow whats a good price rage to charge and what do u do if they dont have all the money to pay for the tow . rudyghostfire@YAHOO.COM
  • J-White said on March 11, 2010
    My fiance and I would like to open a towing business in St. Louis, Missouri. I've done towing work when I was younger but we need advise and information on opening our own business. We have no information on what licenses and permits are needed.
  • rudy miguel said on March 12, 2010
    i would like to know how to start a tow truck business and what kind of license do i need and how much should i charge for my service.
  • M&M said on March 13, 2010
    My husband and I would like to start a towing business in Milwaukee, WI. We need information on the business.
  • Krystal Brackley said on March 14, 2010
    My husband and I would like to start our own towing company in Whiteville, NC and we would like some information on how to get started. Thanks
  • carlos said on March 17, 2010
    I live in Maryland and would like to know what's the first thing to do when starting a towing business. My insurance told me to start with road side service for a year. How do I go by getting help or info on how to promote myself for road side service.
  • Malose Doc Chuene said on March 25, 2010
    Wish to start a towing company and need a professional assistance. May you please contact me for such.
  • B & T said on April 8, 2010
    I live in King City CA. population round 15000, my main focus would be around San Antonio Lake. Its said the real only way to make it is if you were to get in with AAA. Ill take any advice you can give me on everything & anything. Thanks
  • Christopher surette said on April 9, 2010
    Boynton Beach Fl Or Boca Raton, or West Pal beach, please e-mail me I have a ton of Questions it would be greatly appreciated!!!!
  • joseph said on April 11, 2010
    I'm in zambia, wish to know more about tow business here, please help.
  • wyndell williams said on April 11, 2010
    i'm looking to start a towing business in san francisco i would really appreciate tips or facts and how do you contact insurance companies or other companies to work for them thank you in advance
  • will said on April 12, 2010
    Hello, i'm starting a towing and recovery business in NC. can i get some advice on getting a start up loan for a truck, or are there any ways around it other than a start up loan thanks
  • joe said on April 14, 2010
    Hi I am looking to start a flat bed towing company in the pittsburgh area. I have been doing a lot research on this and i need help with finding information on my competitors. Should I lease a truck or rent a truck in the beginning until I make profit. The flat bed tow trucks with air brakes do you need a cdl to drive one? Any information you can give me would be greatly appreciated thank you.
  • Alan Brumbaugh said on April 20, 2010
    Brentwood, TN. I am looking to start my own towing business and need to know how much capital I need up front; the cost of insurance; the amount of an average annual profit I can make. Also, where is the best place to buy a rollback truck for towing: Thank you!
  • acura said on April 21, 2010
    hello, i am interested in starting a tow business in baltimore, md and would like some helpful tips on how to get it started here.
  • browneyes said on April 23, 2010
    If looking to start a tow business my husband and i near charlotte nc already have a mobile tow service for 13 years and interested in selling due to health reason..We can start you out with our accounts and also sell the rollback ..If interested email with questions and information.. This would be a mobile service towing for car lots, mechanic shops and etc..We do not have land for impounds but can also help with setting up that also..
  • Bernie said on April 23, 2010
    I want to start my own recovery business and maybe towing. I live in Northern Va and it seems to be a good market for it. Oh Please send me information on recovery and towing on how to start my own business. i am also looking to work part time in recovery. I would be also interested in buying a local tow and recovery business. Please let me know if there are any out there. bernieglass@gmail.com
  • Duke said on April 24, 2010
    Need information on start up of towing company in Chester Co. PA. What licenses and permits for a 26000 GVW tow truck? Appreciate any help. dukester55d@yahoo.com
  • ttaylor said on April 27, 2010
    My husband is looking to start a towing business in lexington and richland counties in South Carolina. Please advise on the best steps to take in order to start the business correctly. He has spoken with some people about buying a used truck but has not made a final decision. Has already been approved for a loan. Any help is appreciated. Thanks
  • omar crouch said on April 28, 2010
    I AM NEEDING SOME ASSISTANCE ON STARTING MY OWN TOWING SERVICE ANY INFORMATION WILL HELP IF YOU COULD JUST GIVE ME THE BASICS ON HOW TO GET IT STARTED THAT WOULD BE VERY HELPFUL TO ME THANKS.
  • steven b said on April 28, 2010
    Hi, I am looking for any information on how to get a small towing service started for Oshawa Ont. and surrounding areas. Money MIGHT be a problem, but i have enough to get one tow truck plus advertise in my area that i have started up. Is it hard for under drivers to get started in this business. Is there anyone who started 25 or under? And what was insurance like for them? Please let me know if you got any info. steven_ray_brooks@hotmail.com Thank you for your time.
  • Taylor said on April 28, 2010
    I am interested in towing business and would like to start one towing company in Waterloo, Canada.
  • rik said on April 28, 2010
    How do i start a towing business in Portland, OR, USA?
  • Bob said on April 30, 2010
    It's BEST to work for a local Towing Company before Jumping into something that you never tried in your life. That's what I did, Plus when you work for another Towing Company you can get the feel of the paper work that is involved along with there pricing and who they Tow for etc. Been there and still running my OWN Towing Business today. Also don't be afraid to spend money in getting training RIGHT> WRECK-MASTER is a GREAT Course to take!!
  • Bobby Mcbride said on May 3, 2010
    i would like to know the start up cost on a bib rig towing company. in ga/sc ,an two rigs
  • Roger said on May 3, 2010
    I am entertaining the thought of starting a towing company in Grand Prairie, Tx. In what order do I need to obtain the necessary items for start up, i.e; license(company, truck and operator), LLC, insurance, the truck, bank account, and so on.
  • John said on May 5, 2010
    Hello, first off...I have worked for several towing companies here in Rapid City South Dakota 57701 over the years so I have a clear grasp of what is expected.
    I am not thinking about jumping in over my head, all I am looking for is one rollback that I will operate myself. I will not expect PD calls since I don't have a secure yard. I want to be able to tow cars when I want and be able to use the truck for my personal use, I collect tractors and vintage cars, I also sell many cars and parts on Ebay so using the truck for myself would be great. I am looking for info on insurance and licenses. Regards. John.

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