Everything you need to know about First Response Recoveries. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch or call us directly.
Getting started
How do I request a recovery?
Just call us. There's no app, no online form and no account to set up — tell us where you are, what's happened and what needs to happen next, and we'll give you a price and an idea of timing before we set off.
What information do you need when I call?
Your location (postcode or a nearby landmark works fine), the vehicle make and model, whether it's driveable, and where you need it taken. For accident recovery, let us know if the vehicle is safe to approach and whether emergency services are already on scene.
Do I need to book in advance?
No — breakdown and accident recovery are same-day, call-and-go services. Long-distance transport jobs can be booked ahead if you have a specific date in mind, but we can often turn those around quickly too. Just call and we'll talk through timing.
Do I need to be there when you arrive?
For breakdown and accident recovery, yes — we need someone present to confirm the vehicle and destination. For long-distance transport between two fixed addresses, we can often arrange collection and drop-off with a nominated contact at each end.
Breakdown recovery
My car won't start — can you still recover it?
Yes — non-runners are no problem. Our truck and trailer can load and transport a vehicle whether it drives, rolls freely, or neither. Just let us know the condition when you call so we can bring the right kit.
Where can you take my car?
Wherever you need it — home, a garage of your choice, or a dealership. If you're not sure where to send it, we're happy to talk through options based on your location.
What types of vehicle can you recover?
Cars, vans and 4x4s. If you're unsure whether your vehicle fits, mention the make, model and roughly how heavy it is when you call and we'll confirm straight away.
Accident recovery
I've just had an accident — what should I do first?
Make sure everyone is safe first, and call emergency services if there are any injuries or the road is blocked. Once that's in hand, call us and we'll come to recover the vehicle from the scene.
Can you deal with my insurer for me?
We're happy to liaise with your insurer or the police about collection details and where the vehicle needs to go, but the claim itself is between you and your insurer. Keep hold of any reference numbers they give you.
Can you store the vehicle if it can't go straight home?
Yes — if your insurer needs time to instruct an assessor or repairer, we can arrange short-term storage. Ask us about this when you call and we'll confirm cost and availability.
Long-distance transport
I've bought a car from a dealer or private seller elsewhere in the UK — can you collect it?
Yes — this is one of our most common jobs. Give us the collection and delivery addresses and we'll quote a price and rough timescale. Non-runners and auction purchases are fine.
How is a transport job priced?
Mainly on distance, with vehicle size and access at each end also factored in. We'll give you a full price over the phone before we book the job in — no surprises when we arrive.
How long does a long-distance job take?
Depends on the distance and how many jobs we're running that day — we'll give you a realistic window when you book, and keep you updated if anything changes en route.
Pricing & payment
How much will my recovery cost?
It depends on distance, vehicle type and the nature of the job — breakdown, accident recovery or transport all price differently. We always quote a full price over the phone before we set off, so you know the cost upfront.
Are there any hidden charges?
No. The price we give you on the phone is the price you pay, unless the job changes materially once we're on site — for example, the vehicle turns out to be non-runner when we were told it drives. We'll always tell you before anything changes.
How do I pay?
We'll confirm accepted payment methods when you call to book. Payment is taken on completion of the job.
Coverage & response times
What areas do you cover?
Breakdown and accident recovery cover Birmingham and the West Midlands. Long-distance transport runs anywhere in the UK — distance isn't a barrier for that service.
How quickly can you get to me?
It depends on your location and how busy we are at the time — we'll give you an honest estimate when you call rather than a generic promise. If you're outside our core area, we'll still do our best to help or point you in the right direction.
Are you insured?
Yes — we operate fully insured, covering your vehicle while it's in our care and in transit. Ask us for details when you call if you'd like specifics for your own records.
Still have a question?
We're a Birmingham-based recovery operation and always happy to talk it through before you book.