24-7 Emergency Towing
Des Moines

Click to Call
515-290-4188

A vehicle breakdown can happen anytime, anywhere—whether it’s a dead battery near Gray’s Lake, a flat tire on I-235, or a collision on East University Avenue during evening traffic. 

In a city like Des Moines, where harsh winters and high-speed roadways increase the likelihood of accidents and mechanical failures, reliable roadside assistance isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s where Central Iowa Towing & Recovery steps in.

As a Des Moines-based towing provider, we’re available 24/7 to handle emergencies quickly, safely, and professionally. Whether it’s midnight on a snowy January night near Merle Hay Mall or midday in the heat of summer on Fleur Drive, we’re always on-call. We’ve built our reputation on trust, speed, and local knowledge, offering timely service across downtown Des Moines, the East Village, Southside, and even into suburban neighborhoods like Beaverdale and Altoona.

When you call us, you’re reaching a team that’s deeply familiar with Des Moines traffic patterns, local towing regulations, and the unique risks posed by Iowa weather. From icy off-ramps to flash floods near the Des Moines River, we’ve seen it all—and we’re ready to help whenever you need us.

Why Des Moines Drivers Rely on Central Iowa Towing & Recovery

Des Moines residents choose Central Iowa Towing & Recovery because they know we deliver more than just a lift—we deliver confidence and safety. With multiple trucks stationed across the metro area, we minimize wait times and ensure fast service, even during peak hours or citywide events.

Key reasons why Des Moines drivers trust us:

  • Locally Based Teams: Our drivers live and work here. We know how to navigate detours on MLK Parkway and avoid bottlenecks near the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

  • Prepared for All Seasons: We’re equipped for black ice on Veterans Parkway, heatstroke risks in July, and spring flooding along Fleur Drive.

  • Rapid Dispatch: GPS-enabled trucks and experienced dispatchers allow us to reach you faster—often within 20 minutes inside the I-235 corridor.

  • Trained Recovery Experts: Every technician is certified and trained in vehicle recovery, safety protocols, and damage-free towing.

With Central Iowa Towing & Recovery, help is never far. Whether you’re near Drake University or caught in traffic near Jordan Creek, we’ll be there—fast.

About Central Iowa Towing & Recovery – Des Moines Location

Central Iowa Towing & Recovery is an essential part of the Des Moines emergency response landscape. We are one of the few towing providers in the metro with a fleet capable of both light-duty and heavy-duty emergency tows, full-service equipment transport, secure storage, and off-road vehicle recovery.

With more than 700 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, our name is synonymous with reliability and integrity in Des Moines. Here’s what customers have to say:

“I was so worried about having our Mercedes towed because of past experiences. When I saw Jamie offload our car, there were no concerns at all. He ran that truck like a surgical machine. Not a scrape, crunch, or squeak.” — Craig Clark

“Very friendly and helpful in getting me off the side of the interstate! He kept in contact via phone and arrived much faster than what my insurance company quoted.” — Bobby

These are just two voices among hundreds who appreciate Central Iowa Towing & Recovery’s mix of professionalism and personal service. Our Des Moines team is deeply rooted in the community, serving everyone from downtown residents to businesses across Polk County.

What Happens When You Call Central Iowa Towing & Recovery

From the moment you call us at 515-290-4188, our process is designed to bring fast relief and complete transparency. Here’s what happens:

  1. Immediate Assessment: Our dispatch team will ask you for your exact location, type of vehicle, and the nature of the issue—whether it’s a breakdown, accident, or slide-off.

  2. Optimized Dispatching: Using advanced GPS and real-time traffic monitoring, we deploy the nearest available truck based on your location—be it SE 14th Street or the airport corridor.

  3. Live ETA Updates: You receive accurate time estimates and progress updates via text or call. We avoid overpromising and communicate realistic arrival times.

  4. Safety-First Arrival: Our technicians park with caution and use cones, lights, and safety gear in compliance with Iowa’s “Move Over” law.

  5. Assessment and Recovery: We inspect your vehicle and surrounding conditions to determine the safest and most efficient recovery method.

  6. Tow or Repair Recommendation: We’ll tow your vehicle to your preferred shop or one of our trusted partner garages in Des Moines.

Whether you’re in an underground ramp downtown or pulled over near Grand Avenue, our team remains calm, courteous, and professional throughout the process. We focus on ensuring your experience is smooth, stress-free, and quick.

Our 24/7 Emergency Towing Services in Des Moines

We offer a broad range of towing and emergency roadside assistance services to ensure you’re covered no matter what. Our 24/7 towing is backed by a fleet of fully equipped trucks and veteran operators who can handle everything from minor roadside problems to complex recovery operations.

Our key services include:

  • Light-Duty Towing: Sedans, compact cars, and hybrids.
  • Medium-Duty Towing: SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks.
  • Heavy-Duty Towing: Box trucks, semi-trailers, and RVs.
  • Winch-Outs: Perfect for vehicles stuck in snowbanks, mud, or embankments along roads like E. 14th or University Avenue.
  • Roadside Assistance:
    • Jump starts in parking ramps or city lots.
    • Flat tire changes—even if you don’t have a spare.
    • Emergency fuel delivery.
    • Vehicle lockouts with zero-damage entry.
  • Post-Accident Recovery: Coordination with local police and clean-up crews to secure vehicles and restore traffic.
  • Private Property Towing: We also handle unauthorized vehicle removals for local businesses and apartment complexes.

We serve all neighborhoods and surrounding suburbs, from Waukee and Ankeny to Pleasant Hill. Our dispatchers can direct trucks to your location with pinpoint precision, thanks to detailed GIS mapping.

Equipment and Safety Measures We Use

At Central Iowa Towing & Recovery, we use top-tier equipment and adhere to strict safety standards to protect our clients and their vehicles. Our fleet includes:

  • Flatbed and Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks: For damage-free towing across various vehicle sizes.
  • Integrated Wreckers: Ideal for large-scale recovery operations and commercial vehicles.
  • Portable Lighting Systems: To ensure visibility during nighttime recoveries.
  • Advanced Hook and Chain Equipment: Certified and regularly tested for strength and safety.
  • Winches and Recovery Boards: For use in adverse weather and off-road rescues.

Each operator wears ANSI-certified reflective clothing and uses high-visibility markers to set up secure perimeters. We also provide snow chains, salt kits, and heated truck interiors during winter storms, keeping our drivers and customers safe throughout the call.

Every piece of equipment is maintained meticulously to ensure maximum readiness. Our team never cuts corners—we follow strict protocols to ensure the safety of your vehicle and everyone on the scene.

Our Estimated Arrival Times in Des Moines

We know how frustrating it is to wait, especially in unsafe or unfamiliar locations. That’s why we monitor and track arrival times closely. Here’s what you can typically expect in Des Moines:

  • Urban Core (Downtown, Drake, East Village): 15–25 minutes
  • Major Corridors (I-235, I-80/I-35 interchanges): 20–30 minutes
  • Suburbs (Windsor Heights, Ankeny, Pleasant Hill): 25–40 minutes
  • Severe Weather or Peak Congestion: Up to 60 minutes, with updates every 15 minutes

We position trucks strategically across the metro to respond efficiently. Our team constantly evaluates traffic, weather alerts, and call volume to provide honest ETAs. And unlike other companies, we won’t leave you wondering—we stay in touch until help arrives.

Emergency Tips to Stay Safe While You Wait

While help is en route, your safety is priority one. Here are proven steps to reduce risk while waiting for emergency towing:

  • Stay Inside Your Vehicle: Unless there’s visible smoke or danger, it’s safest to remain in your car with seatbelt fastened.
  • Use Hazards and Interior Lights: Make yourself visible to passing traffic, especially at night or during poor visibility.
  • Exit Carefully If Needed: If you must get out, exit through the passenger side away from traffic and stay behind guardrails if possible.
  • Call 911 If Unsafe: If you’re in a high-speed zone or feel endangered, notify authorities—they can assist with traffic control.
  • Prepare Key Info:
    • Note your exact location using road signs or GPS.
    • Know your make, model, color, and plate number.
    • Be ready to describe the issue clearly.
  • Gather Essentials: Keep a winter kit with water, snacks, flashlight, blanket, and phone charger handy at all times.

Your well-being is our top concern. By following these steps, you stay protected while we work to get there fast.

Understanding Emergency Towing Laws in Des Moines

Des Moines follows Iowa state towing regulations, but it also has specific enforcement zones and ordinances that residents should be aware of:

  • Right to Know Your Charges: You must be given a clear breakdown of tow fees, and signage at private properties must indicate towing policies.

  • Police Authorization: If your vehicle is towed after an accident or arrest, it’s typically processed through the Des Moines Police Department’s authorized list. We’re proud to be among the trusted vendors.

  • Storage Access and Hours: Vehicles stored after tows must be retrievable within reasonable hours. Central Iowa Towing offers 24/7 release coordination.

  • Move Over Enforcement: Failure to yield for emergency vehicles—including tow trucks—can result in fines. Please help keep our team safe.

Our team is fully compliant with city and state laws. We also assist customers in navigating their rights when towing follows an accident or citation. Transparency and respect are part of every tow we provide.

24/7 Specialty Towing Services for Unique Vehicles

Not all vehicles are created equal, and at Central Iowa Towing, we’re fully equipped to serve the most unique towing needs 24/7 in Des Moines:

  • Electric & Hybrid Vehicles: Our operators are trained to avoid damaging battery packs or regenerative braking systems.
  • Lifted or Modified Trucks: We use adjustable wheel lifts and custom ramps for lifted suspensions or oversized tires.
  • Motorcycles: Special loading platforms, wheel cradles, and straps ensure safe upright transport.
  • Classic & Show Vehicles: We use soft straps and no-hook methods to preserve paint and body integrity.
  • Low-Profile Vehicles: From sports cars to luxury coupes, we use extra-wide ramps and controlled approach angles.

We handle every tow with precision and caution, ensuring your vehicle type is transported without stress or damage.

24/7 Emergency Towing Des Moines: Frequently Asked Questions

 Yes, we cover surrounding towns like Altoona, Norwalk, Waukee, Ankeny, and beyond.

 Yes. We operate in all weather with weather-specific equipment and protocols.

 Yes, most of our trucks can accommodate passengers safely.

Describe nearby landmarks, signs, or use your phone’s GPS to share your location. We’ll help guide you.

Contact Information – Call Now for Immediate Help

Call Central Iowa Towing & Recovery for fast, safe, and professional emergency towing in Des Moines—any time, day or night.

We’re standing by 24/7. Whether you’re stuck on I-235, broken down near the Capitol, or stranded in a West Des Moines parking lot, we’ll be there. Save our number now—you’ll be glad you did when you need help the most.

Central Iowa Towing and Recovery – Des Moines Location
2560 NE Broadway Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
Dispatch: 515-290-4188
 Email: centraliatow@gmail.com
Open: 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week

FEATURED SERVICES

Mobile Mechanic Services available for Des Moines, Ames, Marshalltown and all of Central Iowa
to help you with your Mobile Car Services, Semi BreakDowns and any other Mobile Mechanical Services you may
need for cars, trucks, semi trucks… etc call our main dispatch number 24/7 for emergency roadside assistance.

Vehicle Lockouts, Gas or Fuel Delivery if you have “Ran out of Gas“, Help With A Tire Change, Mobile Flat Tire Assistance. 

Read more

“My partner slid off of an exit ramp near Story City. Patrick was out there in 20 minutes and got the car out quickly and expertly out of a drainage ditch. He even followed us up to the local gas station to make sure that the car still drove without any problems. I’m incredibly satisfied with the service — fair price, kind people, and expert service!”

Ames Location

Phone: 515-290-4188

Des Moines Location

Phone: 515-290-4188

Marshalltown Location

Phone: 515-290-4188