Find a towing company in Portland, OR
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 Portland?
The Census Bureau counted 6 towing companies with employees in Portland, OR ZIP codes in 2023.
Countywide, Multnomah County has 25, or 3.1 per 100,000 residents: about the same as the US rate of 2.8, and 62nd of 164 large US cities per resident.
The ZIP codes with the most: 97220 (3), 97230 (3).
| Businesses with employees (city ZIP codes) | 6 Census ZBP 2023 |
|---|---|
| Per 100,000 residents, Multnomah County | 3.1 US: 2.8 |
| Rank among large US cities | 62 of 164 county count per resident |
| Population | 642,715 ACS 2023 |
What do towing companies in Portland 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 Portland?
- 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 Oregon 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 Portland?
The Census counted 6 towing companies with employees in Portland, OR 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
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.