For motorcycle enthusiasts in Melbourne, it is at a long-distance ride, moving homes, or even facing an unexpected breakdown; knowing the towing options available for motorcycles is very important. One of the most efficient solutions is the use of a motorcycle tow truck. However, one of the important questions always asked has to do with the cost. How much does it cost to tow a motorcycle in Melbourne? In this blog, we take a closer look at the cost of motorcycle towing truck, what dictates these costs, and what you can expect when booking a motorcycle tow truck in Melbourne.
Cost Determinants of Motorcycle Tow Truck in Melbourne
Now that we have outlined the costs you may be prepared to incur when you intend to use the services of motorcycle towing trucks in Melbourne, we must establish what dictates these costs. The section below looks at the key factors that determine motorcycle towing truck costs in Melbourne:
1. Distance and Location
Distance plays a huge role in the cost of towing. If your motorcycle is to be towed within the Melbourne CBD, the quote should not be that high as compared to towing it from an isolated location such as the outer suburbs or rural areas.
Also, if your bike happens to break down at an inconvenient location uphill or off-road, the towing service will have to use more effort to get the bike out, hence they may charge extra for it.
2. Type of Tow Truck and Equipment Needed
Certain motorcycles are only specially equipped or towed. In other words, a high-end sport bike or very valuable/older motorcycles may warrant special handling for moving/transport; it may include soft straps, wheel chocks, or even flatbed tow truck transport. Specialized services generally come with an additional fee.
3. Urgency
If you need your motorcycle to be towed in short order, such as after an accident or due to a breakdown on a busy highway, then the towing service might regard your job as an urgent one. Urgent towing services may cost more, depending on whether the time of day is rush hour traffic or a public holiday.
4. Weather Conditions
Weather conditions also sometimes come into consideration when motorcycle towing fees are concerned. In this regard, towing companies might charge higher when their services are needed during adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, or a storm. Towing under such conditions is bound to be riskier and may take longer; hence, the costs associated with it will be higher.
5. Towing Company Policies
Policy varies from one company to another about the charges they provide. Several companies at times give a flat charge for towing motorbikes, while some other companies may give charges per kilometre or hour. It is, therefore, always prudent to obtain several quotes from several tow truck services for motorcycles in Melbourne to ensure that the price given is competitive.
How to Minimise Fees for Towing Motorcycle Tow Truck
While motorcycle towing fees can be expensive, there are ways through which a motorbike owner in Melbourne can have some money saved from the towing services:
Price Comparison
It is important to check several companies before you hire a specific towing service. The prices often vary among companies. Comparing prices could get you a good deal for a price.
Check for Flat-Rate Towing
Some firms offer towing at flat rates, which can easily be more reasonable and affordable, particularly for short distances. This way, you will avoid per-kilometre high fees when you are going to tow your motorcycle within a very short range.
Avoid After-Hours Towing
When possible, make an approximation and try to schedule your towing service during working hours to avoid after-hours towing. Towing on non-emergency occasions, during the day, is typically considered cheaper than night, weekend, or holiday towing.
Tips for Booking a Motorcycle Tow Truck in Melbourne
When you book a motorcycle tow truck in Melbourne, you want the best service at the best price. With so many towing companies out there, here are some tips to help you make your decision:
Read Reviews and Check Ratings
This will help you know how different companies are rated and reviewed online. The previous customer experiences will be important in understanding how reliable, punctual, and professional the towing company is. Many towing companies operating in Melbourne list their services on various platforms such as Google, where customers leave feedback based on their experiences.
Ask About Hidden Fees
Some may give you a quote that seems attractive but then charge for various services. Always request a cost breakdown in advance of your service decision. Be certain that you are aware of after-hours service, waiting times, or special handling for larger motorcycles creates additional charges.
Get a Quote in Writing
Once you have discussed the service with a towing company and agreed upon the price, request the quote in written form. It could be a formal email or even a message. It will save you from any last-minute surprises or any change of quotation once the service is availed.
Check the Insurance Coverage
Most towing companies have policies that insure the motorcycles being towed against any kind of damage while the process is taking place. However, it is always a safe bet to confirm this before you make your booking. Make sure your motorcycle will be covered in case there is an accident or any damage during transportation.
The amount for a motorcycle tow truck can range from $100 to $300, depending on various factors such as distance travelled and the time of the day. You are able to minimize your cost through price comparison, flat-rate services, and no after-hours charges; you also need to consider value when you choose your service, making sure it is reliable and professional.
Also, remember to inquire about the hidden fees while booking this motorcycle tow truck service in Melbourne, review the company’s reviews, and ensure that your bike is insured during transport. If you are well-prepared, then transportation of your motorcycle could be very safe and reasonably affordable for cross-city relocation or an emergency roadside tow. At Maningham Towing, we understand that transporting a motorcycle requires a specialized approach. Our towing services are designed to ensure that your bike is handled with the utmost care and precision.