When you need to transfer your vehicle from one location to another, the first thing that might come to your mind transport company or a towing company. Although they are similar and cover each other in terms of services, these two varieties of companies serve different functions. Knowing the difference will assist you in selecting a proper service for your need, if you need services for long distances or emergencies, or when you want to relocate a vehicle.
In this blog post we will deconstruct the big differences between a transport company vs towing company, when should we use each, and what makes them ideal for different situations?
What Is a Transport Company?
A transport company, which is also classified by some as an auto transport company or car transport company, is a professional undertaking that deals with the movement of vehicles over long distances. Such companies are perfect if you’re moving a car within the state or country. Whether it’s a dealership, a military family or someone moving for a job, vehicle transport companies transport your car safely to your new address.
Services Offered by Transport Companies
Open and enclosed vehicle shipping
Cross-country or interstate transport
Door-to-door pickup and delivery
International car shipping
Transportation due to the fleet for dealerships or auctions
Many of the interstate transport companies use big auto carriers that can transport various cars at a time, thus optimizing the cost and time. These are not emergency services, but planned relocations on a schedule, and often booked several days or even weeks in advance.
What Is a Towing Company?
A tow company, towing company, or towing service provides immediate roadside assistance and recovery of vehicles. They are normally used when you have an emergency, for example, your car has broken down or you have been involved in an accident, or your car is stuck. If you go online searching for “towing company close to me,” you will typically find some local providers, have tow trucks containing rescue equipment to help at a moment’s notice.
Services Offered by Towing Companies
Emergency roadside assistance
Accident recovery
Flatbed towing
Winching and vehicle extraction
Jump-starts, lockouts, and fuel delivery
Auto transport companies are much bigger when compared to towing companies. Their primary role is the movement of short distances, frequently within individual cities or regions.
Key Differences: Transport Company vs Towing Company
Let’s break it down further by comparing various features between the two:
Feature | Transport Company | Towing Company |
Distance | Long-distance, often interstate or cross-country | Short-distance, within the city or region |
Purpose | Scheduled transport for relocation or sale | Emergency or roadside assistance |
Equipment | Large multi-car carriers, enclosed trailers | Tow trucks, flatbeds, and winch-equipped vehicles |
Response Time | Scheduled in advance | Immediate or on-demand |
Cost | Based on distance, type of carrier, and vehicle | Based on urgency, time, and distance |
Best For | Vehicle relocation, auto sales, snowbirds | Breakdowns, accidents, roadside help |
When Should You Hire a Transport Company?
Choose a vehicle transport company when:
You’re relocating from one country or another state.
Purchase or sale of a car out of state
You have a luxury, classic, or non-running car that requires sensitive handling.
You are moving and want to have your car shipped to your new house.
The use of interstate transport companies guarantees you receive your vehicle transported without putting miles or wear on it in the most efficient and secure manner.
When to Call a Towing Company
Call a towing company when:
Your car breaks down unexpectedly
You have been in a car accident.
You are stuck in the ditch or the snow.
Needs quick roadside assistance (battery jump, tire change, etc.)
Your first best chance in an emergency is a towing company near you. It provides a quick and convenient service for you and your car out of trouble.
Can Towing Company Also Provide Transport Services?
Some towing companies offer some transport services especially if they have flat bed trucks. However, their services are; generally local and they are not meant for interstate transport. Also most tow-trucks are not meant for long hauls and emergencies, but for short hauls and emergencies.
On the opposite side, auto movement firms do not offer emergency tows or roadside assistance. Their services are organized, insured, and regulated to transport vehicles over great distances.
Choosing the Right Company for Your Needs
Knowing the difference between transport & towing companies will help you make a rational decision in your situation. A tow company is what anyone requires when in need of emergency help. However, when you are relocating or buying or selling a car over state lines, then auto transport companies are the best option.
Some basic tips to decide between the two of them are as follows:
Check credentials: Reputable car transport companies should have a Department of Transport (DOT) license and insurance.
Read reviews: Customer reviews give insight into reliability, whether it’s a towing company or a transport company.
Get a quote: Most of the transport companies have online quotes. Pricing is usually offered swiftly through the phone by towing companies.
Know your timeframe: Transport requires scheduling. Towing is typically immediate.
Conclusion
Although both transport and towing services relate to the moving of vehicles, there are significant differences in the scope, objective, and approach in which such services are carried out. A transport company is ideal for planned and long-distance vehicle moves, but a towing company is what you will need during emergencies and for short distances.
Therefore, the next time you question yourself, “Should I call a towing company nearby me or a car transport company? You will understand what exactly to do.
Looking to ship long distance vehicles? Leave your car in the hands of trusted professional auto transport companies. For the case of roadside assistance, it is always good always to have the number of a good towing company within one’s reach.