If you need a tow in Burnaby, don’t guess. Compare the basics, then book in minutes.

When your car won’t move, you want answers fast: how soon they can show up, what you’ll pay, and what truck you need. This guide compares the common differences between towing options in Burnaby and shows the simple way to book the right help.

Quick overview

• Long waits with no updates
• Surprise fees after the hook-up
• Wrong truck for the job (flatbed vs wheel-lift)
• Hard to reach anyone when you’re stressed

In this guide

• Ask for the total price range before dispatch
• Share your exact spot so the driver can plan

Simple version (do this now):

• Tell them your location and your car type
• Ask what truck they’ll send (flatbed or wheel-lift)
• Confirm fees: hook-up, km, storage, parkade access
• Book online so everything is in writing

TLDR: Towstar vs other towing companies in Burnaby

• The best choice is the one that gives a clear ETA and clear fees upfront
• Match the truck to the job (flatbed for many cars, parkades, or damage)
• Use a booking form so there’s less back-and-forth

What “better towing” means in Burnaby

A “better” towing company is not just the cheapest quote. It’s the one that shows up, communicates, and brings the right gear. For example, RV towing services need different equipment than a small car. And motorcycle towing services should protect the bike, not just move it.

Context (what matters in this situation):

• Response time: a real ETA updates if traffic changes
• Price clarity: what’s included and what adds cost
• Right truck: flatbed, wheel-lift, dolly, or specialty
• Safety: proper tie-downs and safe loading

What a real comparison looks like (not just a cheap quote)

Most people compare towing companies the wrong way: they call one number and take the first price they hear. A better way is to compare what happens after you say “yes.” If you have a bigger vehicle, a provider that handles equipment towing services or machinery towing services is usually more prepared for tough jobs.

What this usually looks like (real-world flow):

• You call and ask for an ETA
• They ask the right questions (car type, damage, parkade)
• You get a price range, not a vague promise
• You get updates on arrival time
• The right truck arrives and the tow is done cleanly

Details to confirm (so you get the right help fast):

• If you’re in a tight spot, ask about dolly towing services for safe moves
• If you’re going far, ask about long distance hauling services
• If you drive an EV, confirm Tesla towing services or EV-safe loading

What you should get as the outcome:

• Less time waiting with no info
• Fewer surprise add-ons
• Less risk of damage during loading

Where hidden costs usually show up

Some companies quote a low base rate, then add fees you didn’t expect. Use this list to ask the right questions before the truck is sent.

Limits / constraints (what can slow things down):

• Parkade or underground access may add time and cost
• After-hours or busy times can change the rate
• Big vehicles can need special gear
• Long-distance tows add per-km charges

Hidden costs to watch for:

• Hook-up / call-out fee
• Dolly fee or extra equipment
• Storage fees if the car goes to a yard
• Gate/entry issues that cause wait time

What to do next (fast, without stress)

If you need a tow now, don’t overthink it. Get clear info, pick the right service, and book it.

• Take 10 seconds to note your address and your car make/model
• Tell them if you’re in a parkade, on a hill, or in a tight lane

Our recommendations (quick picks)

If you’re locked out, choose car lockout unlock services first (it may be faster than a tow).

If your car won’t start, try car battery boost services before towing.

If you have a flat, use mobile tire change services if it’s safe where you are.

If you ran out of gas, use fuel delivery services to get moving.

If the tire is damaged, check tire repair services instead of towing to a shop.

If your battery is done, book car battery replacement services to avoid repeat boosts.

Safety checklist before the truck arrives

Do these 5 steps to stay safe while you wait:

Do this in order:

1. Move to a safe spot away from traffic if you can
2. Turn on hazard lights and set up a triangle if you have one
3. Take quick photos of your car and where it’s parked
4. Remove valuables and keep your keys with you
5. If it’s not safe to stand outside, wait in a safer place nearby

Scenario: Your car needs a flatbed

If your car is low, damaged, or you want a full lift, a flatbed is often the safer choice. It can reduce extra rolling and helps protect the drivetrain.

What to do:

• Good for many AWD and damaged cars
• Better for long moves
• Helps avoid bumper scrapes

Scenario: Quick local tow for a regular car

If the car can roll and you just need a short tow, light duty towing is usually the right fit. The key is clear location sharing so the driver finds you fast.

What to do:

• Good for short-distance moves
• Often faster dispatch
• Works for many standard cars

Scenario: You’re stuck in a parkade or underground

Low clearance and tight turns change everything. Tell the dispatcher you’re underground so the right truck shows up and you don’t lose time.

What to do:

• Check height limits before dispatch
• Confirm access rules and parking level
• Ask about low-clearance equipment

Step-by-step: what to do next

Step 1: Use the online booking link

Online booking is faster because your details are written down right away (location, car type, and what happened).

Step 2: Share your exact location

Send the closest address, plus a clear note like “Level P2 by the elevator” or “right lane on the shoulder.”

Step 3: Pick the service that matches your job

Choose the closest match below. If you’re not sure, pick the one that fits your vehicle size and where you’re stuck. If you need help right away, you can also check 24 hour roadside assistance services for common quick fixes.

BC towing impound cost guide

If your car is being impounded, costs can add up fast (tow, storage, and more). The BC government explains the program and shows example rates so you can plan. Use this page to check what parts of a bill are normal and what to ask about. Here is the official resource: BC Vehicle Impoundment Program.

FAQ: Burnaby towing questions

How long does a tow usually take in Burnaby?

It depends on traffic, where you are, and what truck is needed. Ask for an ETA and a quick update if the driver is delayed. Sharing the exact address helps cut wait time.

What should I ask before I say yes?

Ask what truck they’re sending, the price range, and what fees can be added. Also ask where the car will go (your home, a shop, or a yard). If you’re underground, say that right away.

Why do some towing quotes seem cheap at first?

Some quotes only mention the base tow. Extra costs can come from distance, dolly use, wait time, or storage. A clear price range is safer than a single low number.

Do I need towing for a dead battery?

Not always. A boost can get you going, but if the battery keeps dying it may be time for a replacement. If the car is in a risky spot, move safety first, then choose the service that solves the real issue.

What if my car is an EV or a Tesla?

Tell them it’s an EV and ask for EV-safe loading. Many EVs should be moved on a flatbed to avoid damage. If you want deeper pricing info, see tow truck prices as an example of how rate parts are broken down.

How can I avoid surprise towing fees?

Confirm the truck type, the hook-up fee, and the per-km charge. Ask about after-hours rates and storage fees. Keep a short note of what you agreed to so it’s easy to review.