When you need a tow yesterday
Emergency towing is one of the easiest services to get overcharged on. You're stressed, often on the side of a highway, and the first tow company you reach knows it. Here's how to stay in control.
Step 1: Move to safety first
If your car is drivable, get it to a shoulder or parking lot before calling. Standing on a live shoulder is the most dangerous part of a breakdown. Turn on hazards. Set up triangles if you have them.
Step 2: Know what to ask for
Different tow types cost different money:
- Flat tire / spare swap: $50–$120 if you have a spare and tools.
- Jump start: $70–$140.
- Out of gas: $80–$160 (gas extra).
- Lockout service: $75–$170.
- Flatbed tow: $120–$280 + $4–$7 per km after first 10 km.
- Accident recovery / winch out: $200–$600+ depending on situation.
Step 3: Get more than one quote
The biggest tow-pricing pitfall is taking the first quote because you're stressed. On Khench, you post your tow request once and verified tow providers bid against each other, even while you are at the roadside.
Step 4: Confirm the destination + final price BEFORE the truck arrives
Lock in the drop-off location and total price in writing (via app, text, or email). This kills the classic "drive your car to the shop next door for an extra $200" scam.
Step 5: Use Pro Verified providers for accident recovery
For complex jobs, accident scenes, winch-outs, motorcycle transport, filter Khench bids for Pro Verified providers. That tier requires full auto insurance + driver's license on file. Required by Ontario MTO for towing services.
Khench is a reverse-auction marketplace for local services in Canada. Find tow trucks in Toronto · browse all towing services across Canada.