Do you need to ship your vehicle across the country?
Selecting the best shipping method is critical to protect your car and save you hundreds of dollars. The problem is…
Very few people understand the difference between open and enclosed auto transport services. That lack of knowledge can cost you money by overpaying for unnecessary protection — or worse, losing out on critical coverage for your valuable vehicle.
The good news is:
Learning about these two methods is actually easy. And once you know the differences between them, you’ll quickly see the right choice for your situation.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Open Auto Transport Explained
- Enclosed Auto Transport Breakdown
- Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport Cost Differences
- Which Is The Best Method For Your Vehicle?
Open Auto Transport Explained
Open auto transport is the most common shipping method in America.
Truthfully, over 90% of people will use this option when transporting their vehicles. The main reasons are its affordability, speed, and suitability for most standard vehicles.
Here’s how it works:
The open transport process is simple. The carrier will load your vehicle onto an open-air trailer — the kind you see driving on highways every day. These trailers often have 2 levels, and each level can hold multiple vehicles.
Benefits Of Open Transport
Why do most people choose open transport when shipping their vehicles?
Three primary advantages stand out. Open transport has become the go-to choice for most vehicle owners because of these compelling reasons.
Lower cost – Open transport services are 30-50% less expensive than enclosed transport on average. If you’re shipping a standard car, truck, or SUV, there’s no reason to overpay.
High availability – There are more open carriers than enclosed carriers operating in the United States. This results in higher availability and shorter pickup windows.
On average, tailored transport services provided by professional auto transport companies can match customers with open carriers within 1-3 business days.
Better scheduling – Open carriers travel popular, high-demand routes. This means they have better turnaround times and scheduling flexibility for their shipments.
When To Choose Open Transport
Open auto transport services make sense for everyday vehicles.
Standard sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks are great examples. These vehicles are designed to endure standard weather and normal road debris — exactly what they will experience during open transport.
If your vehicle is worth under $50,000 and doesn’t have special sentimental value, then open transport is the obvious choice.
Enclosed Auto Transport Breakdown
Enclosed auto transport is the premium shipping service.
Approximately only 10% of all auto transport services are enclosed carrier shipments. But for some vehicles, it’s 100% worth the additional cost.
Here’s how it works:
Enclosed transport means that your vehicle will travel in a fully enclosed trailer. Think of an oversized garage on wheels. The trailer will protect your car from weather, road debris, and potential theft during transport.
Enclosed trailers have 1-6 levels and typically carry fewer vehicles than open trailers. This offers more space and attention to each car.
Advantages Of Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport offers you a level of protection that open carriers simply can’t match.
Maximum protection from weather – Rain, snow, hail, UV light, and other environmental factors will never touch your vehicle during enclosed transport. This is especially critical for classic cars with original paint or luxury vehicles with custom paint jobs.
No road debris exposure – Dust, dirt, salt, and other road debris are a big concern during auto transport. Enclosed transport prevents all these elements from ever coming in contact with your vehicle.
This minimizes the risk of chips, scratches, and other cosmetic damage that can happen on open carriers.
Enhanced security – Enclosed trailers also offer more security and privacy than open trailers. Vehicles are invisible to the outside world, so there is less temptation for theft.
Enclosed Transport Cost Considerations
Shall we talk about money?
Enclosed auto transport costs significantly more than open transport. According to recent data, enclosed shipping now costs 45-65% more than open shipping — an increase from 30-40% just a few years ago.
But here’s the deal…
For the right vehicle, this premium is more than justified.
Open Vs Enclosed Auto Transport Cost Differences
Understanding the price difference between open and enclosed transport services helps you make the right choice.
Open transport typically costs $700-$1,200 to ship a standard sedan. Pricing is based on the distance, route popularity, and seasonal demand.
Enclosed transport of the same vehicle costs between $1,000 – $1,800. For luxury and classic cars? The price is even higher.
What Affects The Shipping Price
The final shipping cost is affected by several factors.
Distance – Longer distances cost more to ship, but the per-mile rate is usually lower on longer trips.
Season – Peak seasons such as summer and holidays are in high demand. This will push prices up across the industry.
Vehicle type – Larger vehicles cost more to transport due to higher fuel costs. Classic cars often require special handling which increases costs.
Route popularity – Shipping from major cities to other cities is usually cheaper than shipping to rural areas.
Which Is The Best Method For Your Vehicle?
Now you know the facts, here’s how to decide…
Start by answering a few simple questions about your situation and vehicle.
Vehicle Value Assessment
Ask yourself this first:
Is your vehicle worth over $50,000?
If so, luxury vehicles, exotic cars, and other high-end vehicles should always use enclosed transport. The small additional cost is a small price to pay when compared to repair bills for damage that could occur during open transport.
Classic or vintage cars? Choose enclosed transport every time. Classic cars often have parts and finishes that are irreplaceable and require the highest protection level.
Personal Priority Check
Second, what’s more important to you, cost or peace of mind?
If you’re shipping a regular car, truck, or SUV and you’re looking to save money, then open transport makes complete sense. The risk of damage is very low, and you’ll save a substantial amount of money by using open transport.
If your vehicle has special meaning or you just don’t want to take any risk with your car, then enclosed transport will give you the protection you’re after.
Timing Needs
Last, how soon do you need your vehicle delivered?
If you need it as soon as possible, then open transport will offer faster pickup times because of greater availability. If your vehicle does not require special protection, then open transport is the way to go.
Enclosed transport takes longer to book and arrange. Be sure to plan far in advance if you select this option.
Key Takeaways For Smart Shipping
The bottom line: Choosing between open and enclosed auto transport services doesn’t have to be complicated.
Open auto transport works very well for everyday cars and trucks. It’s affordable, fast, and more than safe for regular cars, pickups, and SUVs.
Enclosed transport is the best option for luxury, exotic, and classic vehicles. Or any vehicle that you want to protect 100% during transit.
Here’s your action plan:
- Determine your vehicle’s true value
- Take your budget constraints into account
- Evaluate your risk tolerance level
- Get quotes from multiple reputable carriers for both types of transport
- Choose the option that makes the most sense to you, factoring in cost and risk
The American auto transport industry is getting bigger and better every day. Professional carriers are safely and reliably transporting millions of vehicles each year using both shipping methods.
So take a deep breath, trust the professionals, and enjoy peace of mind no matter which type of auto transport service you choose.