When you decide to ship your vehicle, one of the first questions you’ll face is: “Do you want open or enclosed transport?”
The choice you make depends on your specific needs, your vehicle type, and your budget. Both are safe and effective methods, but they offer different levels of protection. Let’s break down the differences so you can make the right choice.
1. Open Auto Transport
What it is: This is the most common and affordable type of auto transport. You’ve seen these carriers on the highway—they are typically double-decker trailers that carry 8-10 cars at a time. Your vehicle is driven onto the trailer and secured, remaining exposed to the elements, just as it would be if you were driving it.
Who It Benefits:
- The Budget-Conscious Mover: Because carriers can transport many vehicles at once, open transport is the most cost-effective option.
- The Standard Vehicle Owner: This is the perfect solution for shipping a daily driver, family sedan, SUV, or any standard vehicle.
- The Flexible Shipper: Since 90% of car carriers are open, there are more of them on the road. This means more flexibility in scheduling and often a faster pickup time.
The Downside: Your vehicle is exposed to weather (rain, sun) and road debris (dust, dirt, small pebbles). While damage is rare, it’s a possibility.
2. Enclosed Auto Transport
What it is: With enclosed transport, your vehicle is shipped inside a fully covered trailer. These trailers are sealed on all four sides and the top, completely protecting your car from all weather, dirt, and road debris.
Who It Benefits:
- The Classic, Luxury, or Exotic Car Owner: If you own a high-value vehicle, a classic car, a sports car with low clearance, or a custom show car, enclosed shipping is the clear choice.
- The Owner Needing Max Protection: This method provides 100% protection from the elements. It’s the “white-glove” service of auto transport.
- The Motorcycle Owner: Enclosed trailers are also the standard and safest way to transport motorcycles.
The Downside: This premium service costs significantly more than open transport. Because there are fewer enclosed carriers, you may also need to be more flexible with your pickup and delivery dates.
Which Should You Choose?
The answer is simple:
- For 95% of vehicles, including your everyday car, open transport is a perfectly safe, reliable, and cost-effective solution.
- For high-value, classic, or exotic cars, the extra cost of enclosed transport is a worthwhile investment for complete peace of mind.
No matter which option you choose, the most important decision is picking a reliable company.
At ShipCar.com, we offer both open and enclosed transport services to fit your needs. Get your free, instant quote today, and our team is ready to help you decide on the perfect option for your vehicle.
