Why vehicle weight matters
Recovery isn’t priced on distance alone. Heavier vehicles need different trucks, slower loading and sometimes a second operator — so the quote moves with the weight.
What weight changes
A standard underlift is fine for most family cars. Once you’re into large SUVs, loaded vans or anything near 3.5 tonnes, the agent may need a heavier truck, a flatbed, or to decline the job. That’s why they’ll ask make, model and whether it’s loaded.
Rough local cost by weight
Illustrative only for a nearby recovery (under about 15 miles), not a quote. Motorway jobs, longer runs and awkward access cost more — always agree the price on the phone.
Typical local range
£90–£125
Typical hatchback / small SUV territory.
How costing usually works
For a normal car nearby, many local jobs still land around £90–£120. Push the weight up and you’re often paying for kit class rather than miles — a van recovery can sit well above a hatchback for the same short hop. Motorway hard-shoulder work, night call-outs and long A-to-B moves stack on top of that.
Direct Recovery doesn’t set prices. You agree the job with the independent agent you call. The slider above is a teaching tool so the conversation makes sense — not a fixed tariff.
What to say when you ring
Make and model, roughly how heavy if you know it (or “empty transit” / “loaded with tools”), whether it rolls, and where it’s going. If you’re unsure of the weight, the V5C or a quick web search for kerb weight is enough for a ballpark.
Questions
Is kerb weight or gross weight what matters?
Agents care about what they’re actually lifting — usually kerb weight plus passengers, load and fuel. For vans, say if it’s loaded and roughly how heavy. Gross vehicle weight (GVW) is the legal max; the truck has to cope with what’s on the road today.
Why won’t some agents take heavier vehicles?
Their truck, insurance and winch are rated for a class of work. A light car truck isn’t set up for a loaded 3.5t van. That’s why weight comes up on the call — it saves a wasted journey.
Does a heavier car always cost more for the same distance?
Often yes, because it needs a heavier truck or slower loading. Distance, motorway working, time of day and access still move the price as much as weight. Use the slider as a rough feel, then confirm with the agent.
Related guides
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