So, your car’s hitting the road—but not with you behind the wheel. Maybe you’re relocating, buying a car out of state, or just trying to avoid putting 1,200 extra miles on your ride. Whatever the reason, long-distance towing isn’t something you want to wing.
If your prep game is weak, your car’s road trip might turn into an expensive mess.
Key Takeaways
- Tires should be properly inflated, even if the car won’t be touching the ground much
- If your alarm system is overly sensitive, it could be triggered during loading or bumps in the road
- Getting your car towed long distance doesn’t have to feel like handing off a child to a total stranger
Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for Towing
Whether you’re working with a trusted company or exploring your options for car towing long distance, you’ve got to do your part on the prep side. Towing pros handle the haul—but you’re in charge of the pre-flight checklist.
Here’s how to get your ride road-ready (without actually driving it).
Give It a Bath – Yes, Seriously
Start by washing the exterior. Not just for vanity points—this helps you spot any existing dings, dents, or scratches. If something new shows up post-tow, you’ll know it didn’t come from your weekend grocery run.
Snap a few timestamped pics after the wash. Think of it as your car’s “before” photos. Super handy if any damage claims come up later.
Check for Leaks and Loose Ends
Pop the hood and check for leaks—oil, coolant, brake fluid, the usual suspects. Any drips could mess with other vehicles or gear during transport.
Tighten loose parts like spoilers, antennas, side mirrors, and aftermarket add-ons. If it shakes or rattles when you touch it, secure it or take it off. Your tow driver will thank you.
Inflate Your Tyres (Don’t Skip This)
Tires should be properly inflated, even if the car won’t be touching the ground much. If your vehicle’s being towed on a flatbed or trailer, under-inflated tires can mess with balance or shifting during loading and unloading.
Low tire pressure also increases the risk of sidewall damage from tie-downs. Quick check. Five minutes. Big impact.
Kill the Alarm
Obvious, right? And yet, so many people forget.
If your alarm system is overly sensitive, it could be triggered during loading or bumps in the road. The driver might not be able to shut it off, and no one wants to listen to a car scream for eight hours straight.
Disable it or give the driver instructions on how to shut it down if it goes rogue.
Don’t Fill the Tank
This isn’t a road trip. You don’t need a full tank. In fact, it’s better if your tank is closer to one-quarter full.
Less fuel = less weight = easier, safer tow.
Plus, full tanks can slosh and leak if caps are weak or seals are worn. No one wants fuel dripping down the side of their trailer.
Remove Personal Items and Valuables
Your car’s not a suitcase. Don’t treat it like one.
Take out everything valuable or sentimental—electronics, sunglasses, documents, gym bags, anything you’d hate to lose. Towing companies typically aren’t responsible for personal items left in the vehicle.
Bonus: a lighter car is easier to transport, and there’s less chance of stuff flying around and breaking windows from the inside.
Lock It Up (Once Loaded)
Ask the driver if they prefer the car locked after it’s secured. Some companies ask you to leave it unlocked in case they need to access the inside. Others prefer it locked to prevent theft.
Either way, wait until it’s fully loaded and strapped down before you lock the doors. And never leave the key inside unless instructed.
Fold in the Mirrors
Sounds minor, but it’s worth it.
Folding the mirrors protects them from accidental hits during loading or while passing through tight spaces. Power-fold or manual—just tuck them in.
If your side mirrors don’t fold, consider wrapping them in soft cloth and securing them with tape for extra protection.
Top Off Fluids (Strategically)
You don’t need a full service, but topping off key fluids—especially brake fluid and coolant—can help avoid issues if your car needs to be started or moved during transport. Skip the washer fluid if there’s any chance of freezing weather. That stuff expands and cracks tanks when temperatures drop.
Inform the Driver of Any Quirks
Every car has its weirdness. Sticky ignition? Tricky gearshift? Brake pedal that needs a pump?
Let the tow driver know ahead of time. Write down any special instructions and hand it off when they arrive. A 10-second heads-up can save a 10-minute headache.
Check Insurance Coverage
Before your car leaves your driveway, double-check your insurance policy. Some plans cover transport damage. Some don’t. The towing company should have insurance, too, but it never hurts to have backup.
Ask for a copy of their insurance cert and confirm their liability coverage just in case anything unexpected happens in transit.
Plan the Pickup & Drop-off Spots
Where your car is picked up and dropped off matters. Make sure both spots are accessible by a large tow truck or flatbed. Tight streets, low-hanging trees, and steep driveways can complicate things fast.
If you’re shipping from a garage or lot, clear the space and inform building management if needed. Pro tip: Snap pics of the delivery spot too, so there’s no debate about condition when it arrives.
Don’t Ghost the Tow Company
Sounds silly, but communication is key. Stay in touch before pickup, during transport (if needed), and around delivery.
Confirm the pickup window. Keep your phone on. Make sure someone is there to receive the car if you’re not. Nobody wants a tow driver stuck in your driveway waiting for a ghosted handoff.
Is Your Vehicle Even Ready for a Tow?
One final question before you go all in: Is your car tow-ready?
If your brakes are shot, battery is dead, or the parking brake is stuck, it can complicate the job. Let the company know in advance if your car isn’t in working condition. That way, they’ll bring the right equipment to load it safely.
Final Word
Getting your car towed long distance doesn’t have to feel like handing off a child to a total stranger.
With the right prep, you’re not just making life easier for the towing company—you’re protecting your car, your wallet, and your sanity.
Think of this list as your cheat code to smooth long-haul towing. It’s not glamorous, but it’s 100% worth it.
Discover more from The Happy Nomad | Travel Blog
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
