Professional Towing Operator Invoice Template
Transform your towing business with our tailored invoice template, designed to simplify billing and boost cash flow.
Everything You Need for Towing Operator Invoicing
Our towing operator invoice template includes all the features you need to create professional invoices and get paid faster.
Automated Billing System
Streamline your towing invoice process with automated billing that reduces manual entry, minimizing errors, and saving you time.
Detailed Line Items
Break down charges with clarity, including tow fees, mileage, and storage costs, ensuring transparency for your clients.
Customizable Templates
Personalize your towing invoice template with your branding, enabling a professional image that builds trust with customers.
Integrated Payment Options
Offer various payment methods directly on the invoice, making it easier for customers to pay and speeding up your cash flow.
Client History Tracking
Keep comprehensive records of all past services and invoices, allowing for efficient follow-ups and customer relationship management.
Mobile Compatibility
Access and send invoices from any device, ensuring you can manage your billing on-the-go and stay organized in the field.
Complete Guide to Towing Operator Invoicing
As a towing operator, you provide critical roadside assistance when drivers need it most. Whether it's a breakdown, accident recovery, or parking enforcement, your services keep roads safe and vehicles moving. Professional invoicing is essential—it ensures you get paid promptly, maintains compliance with regulations, and protects your business. This guide covers everything you need to create towing invoices that are clear, compliant, and get you paid.
- Company Information: Business name, address, phone, email, DOT number, ICC/MC number, and tow truck license.
- Customer/Vehicle Owner Details: Name, address, phone, email, and driver's license number if required.
- Vehicle Information: Year, make, model, color, VIN, license plate number and state.
- Tow Details: Date and time of service, pickup location, drop-off location, and reason for tow.
- Service Type: Specify: consensual tow, non-consensual tow, accident recovery, roadside assistance, etc.
- Mileage: Miles towed (loaded miles), may be required for rate calculation.
- Itemized Charges: Base tow rate, mileage charges, winching fees, cleanup fees, after-hours charges.
- Storage Charges: If applicable: daily rate, dates stored, access hours for retrieval.
- Authorization: For non-consensual tows: property owner authorization, police report number, or HOA authorization.
- Subtotal, Tax, Total: Clear breakdown of all charges, applicable taxes, and final amount due.
- Payment Terms: Accepted payment methods, release requirements, and storage lien information.
- Know Your State Regulations: Towing fees are heavily regulated. Know maximum rates and required disclosures in your area.
- Document Everything: Photos of vehicle condition, location, authorization—thorough documentation protects you legally.
- Itemize All Charges: Break down every fee separately. This is often legally required and prevents disputes.
- Include Required Disclosures: Many states require specific language about consumer rights, complaint procedures, and rate schedules.
- Use Standardized Rate Sheets: Post your rates and apply them consistently. Inconsistent pricing invites complaints.
- Collect Payment Before Release: Vehicle should not leave your lot until payment is secured—this is your leverage.
- Track Storage Accurately: Document exact storage start date/time. Storage disputes are common—records protect you.
- Communicate Clearly: Explain all charges to vehicle owners. Clear communication reduces complaints and disputes.
- Accept Multiple Payment Methods: Offer cards, cash, and digital payment. Some states require card acceptance.
- Keep Records for Years: Maintain complete records. You may need documentation years later for legal or insurance matters.
Towing rates are often regulated by state or local law. Here's a general overview—always check local regulations:
Base Tow Rates:
- Light-duty tow (cars/pickups): $75-$150 base
- Medium-duty tow (larger trucks): $150-$300 base
- Heavy-duty tow (semis, buses): $300-$600+ base
- Motorcycle tow: $75-$125
Mileage Charges:
- Per loaded mile: $2-$6/mile
- Often after first X miles: Varies by jurisdiction
- Long-distance: Negotiated rates
Additional Charges:
- Hook-up fee: Often included in base
- Winching: $50-$150 per half hour
- Dolly use: $25-$75
- Accident cleanup: $25-$100+
- Fuel delivery: $50-$100 + fuel cost
- Lockout service: $50-$100
- Jump start: $50-$75
- Tire change: $50-$100
Time-Based Surcharges:
- After-hours (nights/weekends): +25-50% or flat fee
- Holiday: +50-100%
- Wait time: $50-$100 per hour
Storage Fees:
- Daily storage: $25-$75/day
- Inside storage: Premium rates
- First 24 hours: Sometimes free or reduced
Payment terms in towing are often regulated. Here's typical practice:
For Consensual Tows:
- Payment due upon service completion
- Or payment upon vehicle pickup from storage
- Customer responsible for all charges
For Non-Consensual Tows:
- Vehicle released upon full payment
- Must accept multiple payment methods (often required by law)
- May be required to accept partial payment (varies by state)
- Lien rights after specified storage period
Storage Terms:
- Storage charges accrue daily
- Payment in full required for release
- Lien sale procedures after 30-60+ days (varies by state)
- Required notifications to owner and lienholder
Insurance/Police Tows:
- Bill insurance company directly when possible
- Police authorization documentation required
- May have contracted rates with municipalities
Payment Methods:
- Credit/debit cards (often required by law)
- Cash
- Check (with verification)
- Electronic payment
- Exceeding Maximum Rates: Many jurisdictions cap towing fees. Overcharging can result in fines and license issues.
- Missing Required Disclosures: Many states mandate specific invoice language. Know and include all required disclosures.
- Poor Vehicle Documentation: Photograph vehicle condition and location. This protects against damage claims.
- Inadequate Authorization Records: For non-consensual tows, maintain complete authorization documentation.
- Incorrect Mileage Records: Track loaded miles accurately. Mileage disputes are common.
- Missing Storage Start Times: Document exact storage start date/time. This affects charges and lien timelines.
- Not Accepting Required Payment Methods: Some states require card acceptance. Know your obligations.
- Inconsistent Pricing: Apply your rate schedule consistently. Inconsistency invites complaints and audits.
- Releasing Without Full Payment: Your leverage is the vehicle. Don't release until payment is secured.
- Poor Record Retention: Keep all records for years. You may need them for legal matters, insurance, or audits.
Ready to put these best practices into action?
Use our free towing operator invoice template to get started in minutes.
Towing Operator Invoice FAQ
Related Invoice Templates
Explore more professional invoice templates for different industries
Auto Repair Invoice Template
Professional invoice template designed specifically for auto mechanics and automotive services.
Consultant Invoice Template
Professional invoice template designed specifically for consultants and professional services.
Freelancer Invoice Template
Professional invoice template designed specifically for freelancers and freelance services.
Designer Invoice Template
Professional invoice template designed specifically for designers and creative services.
Revolutionize Your Towing Invoicing
Experience seamless billing and increased efficiency with AgencyPro's towing invoice template!