Towing and Recovery Incentive Payment (TRIP) Program

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Towing and Recovery Incentive Payment (TRIP) Program is a competitive selection Indefinite Delivery Vehicle (IDV) designed to expedite the clearance of large commercial vehicles (DOT Class 5-9) blocking travel lanes during highway incidents. This multiple award contract enables towing and recovery companies to provide critical services such as responding to jackknifed semis, lost loads, vehicle fires, and mechanical issues. Vendors must meet specific response time requirements, including 45-minute response during peak hours and 60-minute response during non-peak hours, with complete vehicle and debris removal mandated within 90 minutes. The contract covers specialized towing services requiring advanced equipment like 35-ton hydraulic wreckers, skid loaders, fuel transfer systems, and comprehensive operational capabilities.

Kufner Towing Inc. of Cleveland, Ohio, is a prime contractor for this IDV, with the contract effective from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027. The competitive selection contract provides statewide coverage across Ohio's highway zones, requiring 24/7 service availability. Vendors receive an incentive payment of $2,499 per successful TRIP event, contingent upon meeting stringent operational requirements. The contract is structured as a multiple award procurement, allowing ODOT to establish contracts with several qualified towing and recovery companies. Kufner Towing demonstrates compliance through comprehensive insurance coverage, professional certifications, and extensive fleet capabilities, including over 60 specialized towing and recovery vehicles positioned across multiple service zones.