Towing a car may sound simple, but doing it over long distances requires careful planning. Whether you’re handling the job yourself or using a professional long distance car towing service, the key is preparation. From choosing the right equipment to knowing the laws on the road, a smooth tow depends on doing things the right way from the start.
This simple guide will help you learn how to tow a car with a truck. You will do it safely, legally, and with confidence.
Summary: What You’ll Learn
- How to prepare your truck and car for towing
- Best towing methods for long distances
- Safety tips and equipment checklist
- Legal requirements across states
- When to consider using a professional long distance car towing service
1. Know Your Truck’s Towing Limits
Before you hook up a trailer or dolly, make sure your truck can handle the job. Every truck has a limit on how much weight it can safely tow.
Check These Specs:
- Towing capacity – total weight the truck can safely pull
- Tongue weight – force on the hitch from the trailer
- GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) – total weight of truck, trailer, cargo, and people
- Trailer hitch class – tells you how strong the hitch setup is
Trying to tow more than your truck can handle can damage the engine, transmission, or brakes—and it’s unsafe.
2. Best Methods for Long Distance Car Towing
Choosing the right towing method makes a big difference on long trips. Here’s a breakdown of your main options:
Flatbed Trailer (Most Reliable Option)
- Keeps all car wheels off the ground
- Ideal for AWD, RWD, FWD, luxury, or classic cars
- No wear on tires or transmission
- Best option for safety and long-distance towing
Tow Dolly
- Lifts front wheels off the ground (FWD vehicles only)
- Cheaper than a flatbed
- Not great for AWD or RWD unless the driveshaft is disconnected
- Can be unstable at highway speeds
Tow Bar
- Connects the towed car directly to the towing vehicle
- Low cost and compact
- Not recommended for long distances or all vehicle types
- Higher risk of vehicle damage
Even if you’re using a long distance car towing service, it helps to know which method is best for your vehicle.
3. Equipment You’ll Need for a Long-Distance Tow
When it comes to a successful long distance car towing service or DIY tow, having the right gear matters. Use this checklist to stay safe and legal:
Towing Equipment Checklist:
- Class III or IV hitch receiver
- Adjustable ball mount
- Heavy-duty safety chains (crossed underneath)
- Tire straps or wheel nets
- Trailer brake controller
- Working trailer lights and wiring harness
- Spare tires and jack (for both truck and trailer)
- Reflective triangles or roadside flares
Tip: Do a full walk-around inspection before leaving. Check straps, tires, and lights.
4. Get the Car Ready for the Trip
The car you’re towing needs to be prepped so it doesn’t get damaged along the way.
Pre-Tow Prep:
- Check tire pressure (replace worn tires)
- Remove any loose items inside the car
- Release the parking brake
- Put the transmission in neutral (for flat towing)
- Lock the steering wheel straight
- Disconnect the battery for long trips to avoid draining it
Important: Never tow AWD cars with wheels on the ground unless you’re using a flatbed or disconnecting the driveshaft.
5. Know the Laws and Safety Rules
Laws about towing vary by state. Make sure you know the rules before hitting the road.
What Most States Require:
- Working brake lights and turn signals on the trailer
- Safety chains are required
- Breakaway brake systems for heavier trailers
- Valid registration and insurance for truck and trailer
- Towing speed limits (usually 55–65 mph)
Check with the FMCSA or your local DMV if you’re unsure. Avoid fines or delays by making sure your setup is legal.
6. Safe Driving Tips for Long Distance Towing
Towing changes the way your truck handles. It takes longer to stop, turn, and accelerate. Here’s how to drive safely:
Safe Driving Habits:
- Drive slower than normal (right lane is best)
- Leave more space between you and other cars
- Take wider turns
- Avoid sudden braking or lane changes
- Stop every 150–200 miles for fuel and checks
- Rest often—never drive tired
Always carry an emergency kit with flares, vests, a flashlight, and tire tools.
7. When to Use a Long Distance Car Towing Service
Towing a car yourself isn’t for everyone. If your vehicle is valuable, non-running, or if you’re unsure about your gear, a long distance car towing service may be the smarter option.
Why Go with the Pros:
- They use flatbeds, enclosed trailers, and other pro gear
- Insurance covers your car during the move
- No need to learn towing rules or buy equipment
- Saves time and avoids risk of damage or breakdown
When selecting a long distance car towing company, make sure to compare reviews, customer ratings, and quotes. Choose an auto towing company that meets your needs for both safety and reliability, and ensure they have the right insurance and credentials.
Final Thoughts
Long distance car towing takes more than just hooking up a trailer. You need to understand your truck’s limits, follow safety rules, and choose the right gear.
If you’re confident and prepared, towing your car yourself can save money and give you control. But when in doubt, using a professional long distance car towing service offers peace of mind that’s hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the safest method for long distance car towing?
A: A flatbed trailer is the safest and most stable option, especially for AWD or luxury vehicles.
Q: Can I tow a car with a truck using just a rope or chain?
A: No. It’s unsafe and usually illegal on highways.
Q: Do I need insurance to tow a car long distance?
A: Yes. Your truck insurance may cover it, but you might need separate trailer insurance too.
Q: How fast can I drive when towing a car?
A: Most states limit speeds to 55–65 mph when towing. Slower is safer.