Towing is often the part of a car sale people worry about most — especially when the vehicle doesn't run. Here's exactly how pickup day works with Elite's Cash for Cars program, and what to have ready.
Towing Is Included, Not an Add-On
Once you accept a cash offer, towing is arranged as part of the process — not billed separately and not something you need to schedule yourself. This applies whether the car runs perfectly or hasn't started in years.
Scheduling Pickup
After you accept your offer, you'll set a pickup time that works for your schedule. Most pickups can be arranged quickly, without the extended back-and-forth that comes with coordinating a private buyer's schedule.
What to Have Ready Before the Tow Truck Arrives
A little preparation makes pickup day faster:
- Title or ownership documentation — requirements vary by state, so confirm ahead of time what's needed if your title is lost or unavailable.
- Valid photo ID matching the name on the vehicle's ownership documents.
- Personal belongings removed from the vehicle — check under seats, in the trunk, and glove compartment.
- License plates, if your state requires you to keep or return them separately rather than leaving them on the vehicle.
What Happens When the Driver Arrives
The tow driver will typically verify the vehicle details match what was quoted, complete any necessary paperwork with you, and hand over payment on the spot. Once that's done, the vehicle is loaded and towed away — the whole visit is usually quick and straightforward.
Same-Day Payment
Because payment happens at pickup, there's no waiting on a mailed check or a delayed bank transfer. The vehicle leaves and you're paid in the same visit.
What If the Vehicle's Condition Doesn't Match the Quote?
Offers are based on the information provided during the quote process, so it's worth being upfront and detailed about damage, mileage, and running condition from the start. If there's a significant mismatch between what was described and what the driver finds on arrival, it can affect the final offer — accurate information upfront is the best way to avoid any surprises on pickup day.
No Cost, No Obligation
Requesting a quote and scheduling towing doesn't commit you to anything until you actually accept the offer. If the number isn't right for you, there's no pressure and no cost for simply checking.
The Bottom Line
Free towing removes one of the biggest practical barriers to selling a car that doesn't run or isn't worth the hassle of a private sale — you don't need to arrange transport, pay for a tow yourself, or figure out logistics on your own. Have your paperwork ready, and pickup day is typically a fast, simple visit that ends with cash in hand.