Dolly Towing Service Complete Guide: Cost, Capacity, or Benefits?

Tow dolly towing is a popular method for transporting smaller vehicles by lifting only the front wheels off the ground while the back wheels remain in contact with the road. This technique is commonly used for towing cars and light trucks over short distances, offering a simple and efficient solution for many roadside situations. The capacity of a tow dolly ranges from 3,400 to 4,900 pounds, making it suitable for a variety of smaller vehicles. In terms of cost, dolly towing typically ranges from $109 to $405, depending on factors such as distance, location, and service provider. For more detail read further

What is Dolly Towing Service?

Dolly towing service is the towing service where involve the tow dolly to lift the front wheels of a vehicle off the ground while the rear wheels stay on the road. This method is commonly used to tow front-wheel-drive vehicles because it minimizes wear on the drivetrain and transmission by keeping the powered wheels off the road. The tow dolly attaches to the towing vehicle, securely holding the front tires in place, allowing for easy transportation. Dolly towing is an efficient, space-saving option, especially when full flatbed towing is not required.

How Much Does Dolly Towing Service Cost?

The cost of dolly towing services can vary depending on the rental company, distance, towing company and additional services provided. Here are some examples of typical dolly towing costs:

• U-Haul: Renting a tow dolly from U-Haul costs around $155. When combined with other moving services, like a truck rental, the total cost can reach $3,337.31 after including additional fees and coverage.
• Penske: For a tow dolly rental, Penske charges approximately $109, while their car carrier trailer is priced at $198. The total moving cost, including basic coverage and taxes, can range from $2,525.50 to $2,614.50, depending on the equipment chosen.
• Budget: Budget’s tow dolly rentals are priced around $405, with total moving costs reaching approximately $1,947.14 after fees and coverage.

Overall, dolly towing costs range from $109 to $405, with the final price influenced by the rental company and additional services required.

What is the Capacity of Dolly Towing?

The capacity of tow dolly to tow the vehicle is ranging from 3,400 to 4,900 pounds. The towing capacity of a dolly depends on its design and features, particularly whether it has brakes. For dollies without surge brakes, the capacity maxes out at 4,330 pounds, while those with surge brakes can handle up to 4,550 pounds for front-wheel-drive vehicles and 4,960 pounds for rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

Additionally, the tow dolly itself weighs around 750 pounds, and this weight must be factored into the total load to ensure the towing vehicle can handle the weight. It is important to verify that the towed vehicle does not exceed the dolly’s weight limits, as larger vehicles like full-sized trucks and SUVs may be too heavy for dolly towing.

Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure the towing vehicle has at least 1,000 pounds more capacity than the combined weight of the dolly and towed vehicle to ensure safe towing practices.

What Type of Vehicles can be towed in Dolly Towing?

Dolly towing is best suited for certain types of vehicles based on their weight, drivetrain, and size. Tow dollies are ideal for front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles, as only the front wheels are secured on the dolly while the rear wheels remain on the road. These vehicles are lighter and easier to tow compared to others.

Additionally, some rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles can be towed using a dolly if the driveshaft is disconnected to prevent damage. However, it IS crucial to confirm compatibility with the vehicle’s manufacturer. Compact and mid-sized cars, along with some small SUVs and minivans, generally fall within the weight limit of 3,400 to 4,900 pounds, making them ideal for dolly towing. Heavier vehicles such as full-sized trucks or larger SUVs may exceed the weight capacity and should not be towed using this method.

It’s essential to always check the vehicle owner’s manual and the dolly’s specifications to ensure safe and efficient towing.

How Does Dolly Towing Works?

As we mentions above, Dolly towing works by lifting the front or rear wheels of a vehicle off the ground while the other set of wheels remains in contact with the road. The vehicle’s wheels that are lifted are secured on a tow dolly, which is a small trailer designed for this purpose.

Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Positioning the Dolly: The tow dolly is first aligned behind the towing vehicle. The ramps on the dolly are lowered to allow the vehicle’s wheels to be driven or pushed onto it.
2. Securing the Vehicle: Once the wheels are on the dolly, they are secured using straps and wheel nets. This ensures the vehicle remains firmly in place during transit.
3. Lifting the Vehicle: The vehicle is then lifted by the dolly, ensuring that the towed vehicle’s other set of wheels stays on the ground. For front-wheel-drive vehicles, the front wheels are placed on the dolly, while for rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the rear wheels may need to be disconnected from the drivetrain to avoid damage.
4. Towing: With the vehicle secured, the towing vehicle pulls both the dolly and the towed vehicle. The dolly allows for easier maneuvering and reduces wear and tear on the towed vehicle’s tires and drivetrain.

What are the Pros and Cons of Dolly Towing?

Pros of Dolly Towing Service:

• Affordability: Generally more cost-effective than other towing methods, such as flatbed towing.
• Versatility: Works well for front-wheel-drive and some rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
• Reduced wear and tear: Lifting the drive wheels off the ground prevents damage to the transmission and drivetrain.
• Lightweight: Dolly trailers are smaller and lighter, making them easier to store and maneuver.
• Fuel efficiency: Because of its lightweight design, dolly towing puts less strain on the towing vehicle, improving fuel efficiency.

Cons of Dolly Towing Service:

• Limited vehicle compatibility: Not suitable for larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, or all-wheel-drive cars not suitable for heavy duty vehicle towing.
• Risk of vehicle damage: Rear-wheel-drive vehicles may require disconnecting the drive shaft to prevent transmission damage.
• Tire wear: The wheels remaining on the ground are still subjected to wear and tear during the tow.
• Less stability: Dolly towing can be less stable than other towing methods, particularly over long distances or at higher speeds.
• Complicated setup: Securing the vehicle properly can be time-consuming and requires precision to avoid accidents.

When to Use Dolly Towing Service?

Dolly towing is a practical option in specific scenarios, making it ideal for certain situations while less suitable for others. Here’s when to consider using a dolly towing service:

• For Front-Wheel-Drive Vehicles: Dolly towing is particularly effective for front-wheel-drive (FWD) cars. By placing the front wheels on the dolly, you ensure that the drivetrain and transmission remain undamaged, as the rear wheels roll freely on the road.
• Short-Distance Towing: When towing a vehicle over short distances, a dolly is often a convenient and cost-effective choice. It’s simpler to use than a flatbed trailer and can handle most light to medium-sized vehicles efficiently.
• Budget-Friendly Options: If you’re looking for a more affordable towing solution, dolly towing can be a budget-friendly choice compared to flatbed towing. It’s typically cheaper to rent or use and can save you money on towing services.
• Vehicle Recovery: For recovering a vehicle that is not driveable but is in good condition for towing, a dolly provides an easy solution. It allows you to tow a car without the need for special modifications or extensive setup.
• Limited Storage Space: If you have limited storage space, dolly towing is advantageous because dolly trailers are compact and easier to store than larger flatbed trailers.
• Temporary Towing Needs: When you need a temporary towing solution, such as during a move or a short-term transport, a dolly is a practical option. It is easier to set up and detach compared to other towing methods.
• When Vehicle Modifications Are Not Required: If you need to tow a vehicle without making modifications, such as installing additional towing hardware, a dolly is a good choice. It secures the vehicle with minimal adjustments.

How our TowingRescueteam Offers the Dolly Towing Service and Towing Trailer for Rent?

We understand that every towing situation is unique, which is why we offer a range of solutions to meet your needs. Our dolly towing service is designed for efficiency and convenience, ideal for securely transporting vehicles with either the front or rear wheels on our high-quality tow dollies. This option is perfect for those who need a cost-effective solution for front-wheel-drive vehicles or any car where only one set of wheels needs to be lifted.

Additionally, we provide towing trailers for rent, catering to a variety of requirements. Whether you need a flatbed trailer for full vehicle transport or a car carrier trailer for added protection, our rentals offer flexibility and reliability. Our well-maintained equipment ensures that your vehicle is transported safely and securely, with the added benefit of professional support from our experienced team. With Towing Rescue Team, you get both the tools and expertise needed for a seamless towing experience.