Have you ever wondered why tow truck apps like Uber are so popular? As per Future Market Insights’ data, they have secured a US $ 447.8 million market as of 2021. Tow Truck Apps have a variety of services that people require on a day-to-day basis.
Some standard services include roadside assistance, towing damaged cars, helping during accidents and assisting shops. In this article, we will highlight how you can successfully build a tow truck app like Uber!
What are Towing Apps?
A towing app is very similar to a delivery or transit-based one. It allows a person to avail of towing services in case of an unforeseen accident or if their vehicle stops working while on the road. It also helps to clear the traffic and reduce hassle.
A towing app usually has features like booking an immediate service and real-time chat with the tow truck driver. Additionally, it has a payment option to make the service available securely. Towing apps also have real-time navigation or maps to see the driver’s location. All these intricate features help the app to be more convenient and user-friendly.
How does a Tow Truck App like Uber Work?
A tow truck app like Uber allows users to use basic credentials to make an account or sign up. These credentials include the phone number or the person’s email. After logging in, a person can book a tow service. These apps usually list various tow truck services that can be availed based on a person’s needs. The price of service varies based on the location and the vehicle. Then, the customer shares their location and vehicle details so the tow truck can spot them. Once all this is done, they can track their tow truck driver and give feedback post-service.
Steps To Build a Tow Truck App Like Uber
Tow truck apps like Uber can be easily built with the following simple steps:
Step 1: Ideation and Market Research
The first step is to decide what kind of app you want to build. Is this an intermediary app, or do you have a towing truck company, and is it specific to that? Then, you must start with market research regarding the geography and analyze the competitors and their business models.
Step 2: Develop a USP
Once you have researched and analyzed other tow truck apps like Uber, it’s time to ideate how to develop a unique selling proposition. This will help set your app apart from the competition. Customers often look for newer features and unique business models that solve the issues arising from existing applications.
Step 3: Deciding the Feature List
The next step is to decide the kind of features your app will have. What will the brand logo and brand colors be? Will your app have user authentication? How will you manage tracking of orders and if they have been fulfilled? How will you keep a tab on the authenticity of listed service providers? What APIs and integrations will you use? All these need to be decided.
Step 4: Choosing the Technologies and Frameworks
This highly depends on the type of app you are building. Is it for mobile phones, tablets, desktops and the web? You need to decide if you want to build a native application or a hybrid one. For front-end development, you have a range of languages to choose from. Similarly, several frameworks are offering API integration. The languages and frameworks need to be finalized.
Step 5: App Building & Launch
Once you have a clear picture of your app and what technologies or languages you will use, you can start building it. When the prototype is ready, you can test it using different tools. It can also be launched as a pilot for feedback. Ensure that feedback is incorporated to make your app better. Now, your app is ready to be launched!
Must-Have Features in Your Tow Truck App
There are certain essential features that a tow truck app like Uber must have:
Authentication and Registration Features
This feature ensures that only authenticated users can access the service, preventing fraudulent or unauthorized requests. Your app must have features to save the details so that one doesn’t have to fill out details repeatedly. Additionally, it should also have a live location feature for the user.
Tracking Option
A customer should be able to use the tracking facility. This allows them to stay updated about when the towing service truck driver will arrive. It also assures them that they will receive timely service.
Admin Panel
This panel is essential for tracking your app’s progress, user interaction and how the staff performs. It will also allow you to quickly check which drivers are free and can be sent to last-minute towing requests. Additionally, it provides analytics that helps you make changes if required.
Secure Payment Gateway
This is one of the most important features, as people prefer secure payments. A good payment gateway also ensures no lagging or delayed load time. This improves the user experience and makes it easier to avail the services.
Revenue Models for Towing Apps
There are various ways tow truck apps like Uber can generate revenue. Some of these are:
Through Commission
One way to make revenue out of your towing app is through commission. The commission is a fee from all the tow trucks and drivers you list on your platform. This way of revenue can only be achieved if your app is intermediary-based. Such an app only connects those requiring the service with service providers.
Through Subscription
A subscription model helps users avail of premium services. Several users constantly require tow services due to their shops or faulty vehicles. Additionally, through a premium service, one can avail of some add-on features like changing tyres, getting a speedy service, or getting more experienced tow drivers. All these features make it lucrative to invest in a subscription model.
Through Advertisements
Another way in which your app can raise revenue is by putting advertisements. Once your app has a substantial user base and good daily user engagement, this can be done. Brands often invest in advertisements on apps and websites if the customer base is similar to the one they are targeting. This can help generate revenue on an hourly or per-ad basis.
Conclusion
Building a tow truck app like Uber can be challenging, especially in accident-prone areas. This article simplifies the process by outlining essential steps, features and revenue-generating strategies for creating a successful online towing service.
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