When removal is free
Almost all standard jobs are free: the car is complete, it is on private property or a legal roadside spot, and a tow truck can reach it. That covers the vast majority of pickups across Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, Canterbury and the rest of the country.
- Complete car, ute, van or 4WD
- Accessible driveway, garage entrance, street or car park
- Non-runners, no keys, flat tyres — all still free
When a charge can apply
A yard may deduct from your offer, or ask for a fee, when the job costs them more than the vehicle is worth.
- The car is stripped — no engine, gearbox or wheels
- It is stuck in a basement carpark, behind a locked gate or down a paddock needing a specialist recovery
- You are on a remote rural site a long way from the nearest yard
How to avoid surprises
Describe the car honestly when you request a quote — condition, access, whether it rolls and steers. An accurate description gets you a firm offer that does not change when the truck arrives.
Common questions
- Should I ever pay to have a whole car taken away?
- Generally no. If a company asks for a removal fee on a complete vehicle, get a second quote.
- How fast is pickup?
- Usually same-day to 48 hours in main centres, a little longer in rural areas.