After-hours tow pricing varies dramatically. Some operators charge a flat rate that doesn't change overnight or on weekends. Others add a 'night premium' of 25–50% to the standard rate. Others charge holiday premiums on top of weekend premiums.
The economic argument for premium pricing is that overnight drivers cost more (overnight pay rates) and fewer competing tows are available. The counter-argument is that overnight calls are usually more urgent (accident, breakdown in cold) and pricing should reflect community service, not opportunism.
Auto-club roadside contractors are often required to charge the same rate regardless of time, which is partly why drivers wait 2–3 hours on auto-club calls overnight — contractors deprioritize the lower-margin auto-club calls.
Always confirm the rate before the truck rolls. If the dispatcher won't quote a fixed price, that's a warning sign.
Premium pricing isn't always wrong — it can reflect actual operational costs — but it should be disclosed upfront.