Planning to ship your car across the country? The choice between open and enclosed auto transport can significantly impact both your budget and your vehicle’s safety during transit. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about both shipping methods, helping you make the best decision for your specific vehicle, budget, and peace of mind.

What’s the difference between open and enclosed car shipping?

Understanding the fundamental differences between open and enclosed auto transport is crucial for making an informed decision about your vehicle shipping needs. Both methods are legitimate, safe, and widely used throughout the industry, but they serve different purposes and cater to different priorities.

The choice between these two shipping methods ultimately comes down to several key factors that we’ll explore in detail:

Protection level: How much weather and road debris protection your vehicle needs during transit.

Vehicle value: Whether your car is a standard daily driver or a high-value investment requiring premium care.

Budget considerations: The cost difference between methods and what fits your financial situation.

Availability and timing: How quickly you need your vehicle shipped and carrier availability in your area.

Personal comfort level: Your tolerance for risk and preference for peace of mind during the shipping process.

Specific vehicle requirements: Whether your car has special needs like low ground clearance or custom modifications.

Open car transport: The industry standard

Open car transport represents the backbone of the auto shipping industry, handling approximately 90% of all vehicle shipments across the United States. This method has proven its reliability through decades of successful deliveries.

How open transport works

Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer, typically a two-level car carrier that can accommodate 7-10 vehicles simultaneously. These trailers are the same type you see on highways every day, transporting new cars from manufacturing plants to dealerships.

The loading process is carefully managed, with vehicles secured using specialized wheel straps and chains designed specifically for auto transport. Professional drivers conduct thorough inspections before loading and after delivery, documenting your vehicle’s condition at each stage.

Advantages of open car shipping

Cost effectiveness: Open transport offers the most economical shipping solution because carriers can transport multiple vehicles simultaneously, sharing costs across several customers. This efficiency translates directly into savings for consumers.

Wide availability: With thousands of open carriers operating across the country, scheduling is typically faster and more flexible. Popular routes have multiple carriers running regularly, while even remote areas have reasonable service availability.

Proven track record: Millions of vehicles ship safely via open transport annually, including new cars from major manufacturers. The method’s widespread use demonstrates its reliability and safety when executed by professional carriers.

Faster pickup and delivery: The abundance of open carriers means shorter wait times for pickup and more direct routing options. This efficiency often results in faster overall delivery times compared to enclosed transport.

Easy inspection access: Drivers can quickly inspect vehicles during mandatory rest stops, checking for any issues that might arise during transit. This accessibility allows for prompt attention to any concerns.

Limitations of open transport

Weather exposure: Your vehicle will be exposed to rain, snow, hail, and extreme temperatures during transport. While this rarely causes damage to modern vehicles, it’s a consideration for owners of sensitive or vintage cars.

Road debris: Dust, dirt, and small rocks kicked up by traffic can affect your vehicle’s exterior. Most of this is cosmetic and easily cleaned, but pristine show cars might suffer minor paint chips.

Limited security: Open trailers offer no protection from prying eyes or potential vandalism during stops. While theft is extremely rare, high-value vehicles might benefit from the additional security of enclosed transport.

Not suitable for all vehicles: Extremely low cars, heavily modified vehicles, or those with custom body work might not fit safely on standard open trailers.

Enclosed car transport: Premium protection

Enclosed auto transport provides the highest level of protection available in the vehicle shipping industry. This premium service caters to owners who prioritize maximum security and protection for their valuable automobiles.

How enclosed transport works

Your vehicle travels inside a fully enclosed trailer that protects it from all external elements. These trailers typically carry fewer vehicles—usually 2-6 cars depending on the trailer design—allowing for more individualized attention and care.

Many enclosed trailers feature hydraulic lift gates, making them ideal for low-clearance vehicles like sports cars and custom builds. Climate-controlled options are available for the most sensitive vehicles, maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels throughout transport.

Advantages of enclosed car shipping

Complete weather protection: Your vehicle remains completely dry and protected from rain, snow, hail, and extreme temperatures. This protection is invaluable for vehicles with sensitive paint, leather interiors, or electronic components.

Maximum security: Enclosed trailers hide your vehicle from view, reducing theft risk and preventing unwanted attention during stops. Many trailers feature additional security measures like locks and alarm systems.

Reduced road debris exposure: Complete protection from dust, dirt, rocks, and other road debris keeps your vehicle pristine during transport. This is particularly important for show cars, classics, or vehicles heading to important events.

Specialized handling: Enclosed carriers often specialize in high-value vehicles and provide extra care during loading, securing, and unloading. Drivers typically have additional training in handling luxury and exotic cars.

Climate control options: Some enclosed trailers offer climate-controlled environments, protecting vehicles with sensitive materials or electronics from temperature extremes.

Lower clearance accommodation: Many enclosed trailers feature hydraulic lift gates and adjustable ramps, making them ideal for lowered vehicles, sports cars, and custom builds that can’t navigate standard trailer ramps.

Limitations of enclosed transport

Higher cost: Enclosed transport typically costs 40-60% more than open transport due to lower vehicle capacity per trailer and specialized equipment requirements.

Limited availability: Fewer enclosed carriers operate nationwide, potentially leading to longer wait times for pickup and delivery, especially in rural areas or less popular routes.

Slower delivery times: The limited number of enclosed carriers and their more specialized routes can result in longer overall transit times compared to open transport.

Inspection challenges: Enclosed trailers make it more difficult to perform quick visual inspections during transit, though this is rarely a practical concern.

Cost comparison: Open vs enclosed car shipping

Understanding the financial implications of each shipping method helps you make a budget-conscious decision while getting the protection level you need.

Open transport pricing factors

Open car shipping costs typically range from $0.60 to $1.70 per mile, with several factors influencing the final price:

Distance: Longer routes generally offer better per-mile rates due to operational efficiencies.

Seasonality: Summer months and snowbird seasons (fall/spring) see higher demand and pricing.

Route popularity: Major corridors between large cities typically offer competitive rates due to high carrier availability.

Vehicle size: Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs may incur additional fees due to weight and space requirements.

Pickup/delivery locations: Door-to-door service to accessible locations costs less than remote or difficult-to-reach areas.

Enclosed transport pricing factors

Enclosed shipping costs typically range from $1.20 to $2.50 per mile, with premium services commanding even higher rates:

Specialized equipment: Hydraulic lift gates, climate control, and air-ride suspension increase costs.

Lower capacity: Fewer vehicles per trailer mean higher per-unit costs.

Insurance requirements: Higher-value cargo often requires additional insurance coverage.

Driver expertise: Specialized training and experience in handling luxury vehicles command premium rates.

Security features: Advanced security systems and monitoring equipment add to operational costs.

Sample cost comparison

For a typical 1,000-mile shipment:

Open transport: $800-1,200 for standard vehicles Enclosed transport: $1,400-2,200 for the same route

Regional variations: West Coast and Northeast corridors typically see higher prices due to demand and operating costs.

Seasonal adjustments: Winter shipping to/from northern states and summer demand can increase prices by 20-30%.

Which vehicles need enclosed transport?

Certain types of vehicles benefit significantly from the additional protection offered by enclosed transport, making the premium cost worthwhile.

Luxury and exotic vehicles

High-end vehicles from manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and McLaren represent substantial investments that warrant maximum protection. These vehicles often feature sensitive paint finishes, expensive interior materials, and advanced electronics that benefit from controlled transport environments.

Classic and vintage automobiles

Restored classics, rare vintage cars, and collector vehicles have irreplaceable value that goes beyond monetary worth. The time, effort, and craftsmanship invested in these vehicles make enclosed transport a wise investment in preservation.

Show cars and concours vehicles

Vehicles destined for car shows, concours events, or competitions require pristine condition upon arrival. Even minor dust or water spots can affect judging results, making enclosed transport essential for serious competitors.

New luxury vehicle purchases

Brand-new high-end vehicles, especially those purchased from distant dealers, deserve the same protection they received during initial delivery from the manufacturer.

Custom and modified vehicles

Heavily modified vehicles with custom paint, body work, or expensive aftermarket parts benefit from enclosed transport to protect these investments during shipping.

Low-clearance vehicles

Sports cars, lowered vehicles, and custom builds with minimal ground clearance often require the specialized loading equipment found on enclosed trailers.

When open transport is perfectly adequate

Many vehicle owners can save significantly by choosing open transport without compromising safety or reliability.

Daily drivers and standard vehicles

Regular passenger cars, standard trucks, and SUVs used for daily transportation are designed to withstand weather and road conditions. Open transport poses no additional risk to these vehicles beyond normal driving exposure.

Newer vehicles with warranties

Modern vehicles with comprehensive warranties can typically handle open transport without concern. Any unlikely damage would be covered by the carrier’s insurance.

Budget-conscious shipments

When cost is a primary consideration and your vehicle doesn’t have special value or sensitivity, open transport provides excellent value while maintaining professional service standards.

Commercial fleet vehicles

Business fleets, rental cars, and other commercial vehicles typically use open transport due to cost efficiency and the practical nature of these vehicles.

Short to medium distance moves

For shorter shipments where weather exposure time is limited, open transport often makes the most economic sense.

Safety and insurance considerations

Both shipping methods provide professional service with comprehensive insurance coverage, but understanding the details helps you make an informed choice.

Insurance coverage standards

All legitimate auto transport companies must carry cargo insurance meeting Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements. Typical coverage ranges from $100,000 to $1,000,000 per incident, depending on the carrier and cargo value.

Open transport insurance: Standard coverage protects against damage from accidents, loading/unloading incidents, and carrier negligence. Weather-related damage is typically not covered unless caused by carrier negligence.

Enclosed transport insurance: Higher coverage limits often apply due to the increased value of vehicles typically shipped via enclosed transport. Some carriers offer additional coverage options for extremely valuable vehicles.

Documentation and inspection procedures

Proper documentation protects both you and the carrier throughout the shipping process:

Pre-shipping inspection: Thorough condition reports document existing damage, modifications, and special features before loading.

Photo documentation: Digital photos from multiple angles provide visual evidence of your vehicle’s condition.

Delivery inspection: Careful examination upon delivery ensures any transit damage is identified immediately.

Damage claims process: Understanding the claims procedure and timeline helps resolve any issues quickly.

How to choose the right transport method

Making the final decision between open and enclosed transport requires evaluating your specific situation against several key criteria.

Vehicle value assessment

Consider both monetary value and personal attachment when evaluating your vehicle:

Market value: Vehicles worth $50,000+ often justify enclosed transport costs through protection value.

Replacement cost: Consider what it would cost to repair or replace your vehicle if damaged during transport.

Sentimental value: Family heirlooms, first cars, or vehicles with special memories may warrant premium protection regardless of market value.

Risk tolerance evaluation

Honest self-assessment of your comfort level with various scenarios:

Weather concerns: How would you feel if your car arrived dusty or with water spots?

Minor damage acceptance: Could you handle small paint chips or scratches that might occur during open transport?

Insurance claim comfort: Are you comfortable with the potential hassle of filing insurance claims if damage occurs?

Budget reality check

Determine what you can realistically afford while meeting your protection needs:

Total shipping budget: What percentage of your total moving or vehicle purchase budget can you allocate to shipping?

Value proposition: Does the additional cost of enclosed transport provide proportional peace of mind value?

Alternative uses: Could the money saved by choosing open transport be better used elsewhere in your situation?

Timeline considerations

Your scheduling needs may influence the best choice:

Flexibility: Can you wait longer for enclosed transport if needed?

Seasonal timing: Are you shipping during peak season when enclosed availability is more limited?

Urgency: Do you need your vehicle immediately upon arrival at your destination?

Making the smart choice for your situation

The decision between open and enclosed car shipping isn’t always black and white. Many factors contribute to making the right choice for your specific circumstances.

Choose open transport when: You’re shipping a standard daily driver, budget is a primary concern, you need flexible scheduling, your vehicle is under $30,000 in value, and you’re comfortable with minimal weather exposure.

Choose enclosed transport when: Your vehicle is worth $50,000+, you’re shipping a classic or collector car, the vehicle has sentimental value, you’re transporting to a car show or special event, your car has custom modifications, or peace of mind is worth the premium cost.

Consider a hybrid approach: For multiple vehicle households, ship your most valuable car enclosed while using open transport for daily drivers to balance cost and protection.

At Easy Go Logistics, we offer both open and enclosed car shipping services nationwide. Our experienced team can help you evaluate your specific needs and recommend the best transport method for your situation and budget.

Get expert guidance for your car shipping needs

Choosing between open and enclosed car shipping doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team at Easy Go Logistics has years of experience helping customers make the right choice based on their vehicle type, budget, and protection needs.

Ready to get started? Call us at (888) 387-6204 for personalized guidance, or get your free quote online today. Whether you need nationwide vehicle shipping, luxury car transport, or classic car shipping, we’ll help you find the perfect solution.

Our three-step shipping process makes it easy to book your transport with confidence, backed by our network of over 15,000 verified carriers and comprehensive insurance coverage. Learn more about how auto transport works and discover why thousands of customers trust Easy Go Logistics with their most valuable vehicles.