Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping
Compare both options and choose the right transport for your vehicle.
Most customers choose open transport for its lower cost and wide availability. Enclosed transport costs more but offers maximum protection—ideal for high-value or classic cars.
Both methods are safe and used every day by dealers, auctions, and private owners. The right choice depends on your vehicle type, budget, and how much protection you want from weather and road conditions. Below we break down the differences so you can decide with confidence.
Open car transport
Your vehicle travels on an open trailer alongside other cars—the same method used by dealerships and auctions nationwide. The trailer has no roof or sides, so vehicles are exposed to light road dust, weather, and highway conditions. For most everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs, this is perfectly acceptable and is the most cost-effective way to ship.
- Most affordable option
- Widely available carriers
- Ideal for standard vehicles
- Faster booking and pickup
Enclosed car transport
Your vehicle is loaded inside a fully enclosed trailer—essentially a large, covered box on wheels. Nothing from the outside (rain, wind, debris, road spray) reaches your car. This option is recommended for luxury, exotic, classic, or any vehicle with low ground clearance that needs extra care. Enclosed trailers have limited capacity, so they cost more and may have slightly longer lead times for pickup.
- Full protection from weather
- Shielded from road debris
- Best for luxury & classic cars
- Lower clearance vehicles
What open transport looks like
Open carriers are the familiar multi-level trailers you see on the highway with several vehicles stacked and secured. They are designed for safe, efficient transport of standard vehicles. Your car is strapped down and may be driven onto the trailer or loaded with a ramp. Minor dust or road film is normal and can be washed off at delivery. This method is used for the vast majority of auto shipments in the U.S.
When to choose enclosed
Enclosed transport is worth the extra cost when your vehicle is a collector car, exotic, or high-end luxury model where paint and finish matter. It’s also the right choice for cars with very low ground clearance that need a lift gate or special ramp—something open carriers typically don’t offer. If you’re shipping in harsh weather or over a long distance and want zero exposure, enclosed gives you that peace of mind.
Not sure which to choose?
Get a quote for both options. Our team can recommend the best fit for your vehicle and budget based on your make, model, and route.
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FAQs
Common questions about open and enclosed car shipping.
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