Since there are about 296 million cars registered in the U.S. today, you can imagine how many folks call for a tow every day. After working at a shop for many years, I’ve witnessed dang-near every inconvenience associated with towing. Whether you’re involved in a car accident or having a mechanical breakdown, if you order a tow truck, there are some important things to do before letting the driver leave with your vehicle. Let’s get into it.

7 things to do before letting a tow truck take your car:

• Make sure the right type of tow truck arrives
• Verify and save the tow company’s information
• Confirm the destination
• Hash out the bill
• Empty your car
• Take photos
• Provide just the spare key

The Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA) says there are more than 35,000 tow companies in the U.S.

As such, there is a wide range of, well, “levels of service,” if you will.

You might have a “special” car that, in turn, might need a specific type of tow truck. Certain vehicles, like EVs, require flatbed towing. Be sure to check if your car has any special requirements and that the tow company is aware.

Make sure the tow company is certified and reputable. Save the tow company’s and the driver’s contact information (if they’ll give it to you). Forgetting who towed the car might cause confusion or some issue down the line.

It might seem obvious to do this, but double-check that the tow truck driver has the correct destination. Obviously, if the vehicle ends up in the wrong spot because “someone” didn’t confirm this information, I can assure you the debacle will be a total headache to address…including extra charges.

Have the driver or tow company provide the estimated tow bill and determine who’s paying it. Sometimes, tow companies will allow their drivers to carry payment processors in the tow truck. You might be able to pay upfront. This could prevent a “surprise” total on the final bill later.

Clear the vehicle of items essential to daily life, plus any valuables. Don’t forget your garage door opener, child safety seats, cell phone charger, etc.

Take pictures of every side of the vehicle. It’s okay to do this in front of the driver. Photos could be helpful if any new damage appears in the tow truck company’s possession.

Finally, and this is more of a general tip, too: If you don’t have one, get a spare key. This is especially helpful if you’re separating from the car for any period of time. Get a second key and give it to any service provider, be it a tow truck driver, shop, or valet. It’s always a good idea to have an alternate method of accessing and driving away your own vehicle.