Find a towing company in San Francisco, CA
A towing company moves vehicles that break down, crash, or are illegally parked. Many also offer roadside help like jump starts, lockouts and tire changes. A good tow company gives a clear price, uses the right equipment, and tells you exactly where your car is going.
How many towing companies are in San Francisco?
The Census Bureau counted 20 towing companies with employees in San Francisco, CA ZIP codes in 2023.
Countywide, San Francisco County has 22, or 2.6 per 100,000 residents: about the same as the US rate of 2.8, and 106th of 164 large US cities per resident.
The ZIP codes with the most: 94124 (10), 94112 (6), 94103 (4).
| Businesses with employees (city ZIP codes) | 20 Census ZBP 2023 |
|---|---|
| Per 100,000 residents, San Francisco County | 2.6 US: 2.8 |
| Rank among large US cities | 106 of 164 county count per resident |
| Small businesses (under 5 staff) | 40% |
| Population | 836,321 ACS 2023 |
What do towing companies in San Francisco help with?
- Emergency towing
- Accident recovery
- Flatbed towing
- Long-distance towing
- Jump starts
- Lockout service
- Tire changes
- Fuel delivery
- Winching and recovery
- Motorcycle towing
How do you choose a good towing company in San Francisco?
- Ask for the total price before they hook up your car.
- Ask whether they use flatbeds for all-wheel-drive, low or luxury vehicles.
- Check whether your insurance or roadside plan covers towing.
- Ask where your car will be taken and get the address.
- Ask for the company name, driver name and a receipt.
- Check reviews for surprise fees and damage.
Many states and cities license tow operators and regulate non-consent tows; ask for a license or permit number where required. See California license rules and lookup.
Questions to ask before you hire
- What is the total price?
- Do you use a flatbed?
- Where will my car go?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- How long until you arrive?
- Do you take insurance or roadside plans?
Red flags to watch for
- Showing up at a crash scene without being called.
- Refusing to give a price up front.
- Taking your car to a shop you did not choose.
- Holding your car for unclear fees.
What changes the price?
- Distance
- Vehicle size and type
- Time of day
- Accident recovery work
- Storage fees
- Special equipment
Get two or three written quotes for the same scope of work; prices vary a lot between businesses.
Questions people ask
How many towing companies are there in San Francisco?
The Census counted 20 towing companies with employees in San Francisco, CA in 2023.
What should I do if my car was towed?
Call the local police non-emergency line or check posted signs for the tow company. Bring ID and proof of ownership to get it back.
Can I choose the tow company after an accident?
Often, yes, unless police need the road cleared fast. Ask your insurer and the officer on scene.
What is a flatbed tow?
A flatbed carries the whole car on a platform. It is safer for many all-wheel-drive and damaged vehicles.
Towing Companies in nearby cities
Towing Companies in other cities
Sources: US Census Bureau ZIP and County Business Patterns 2023, Nonemployer Statistics 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates. Census industry groups can include closely related businesses. Expert Helper is a free matching service, not a towing company.