When it comes to transporting a vehicle, choosing the right type of car shipping trailer can make a huge difference. There are two common options for this: open auto transport and enclosed auto transport. Each kind comes with its own considerations, advantages, and drawbacks.
Therefore, to choose one that fits your needs, you must consider different factors. In this guide, we will do a thorough comparison between enclosed and open-car shipping so you can make an informed decision. Let’s begin!
What is Enclosed Car Shipping?
Enclosed auto transport refers to a car shipping method in which the vehicle is delivered within a fully enclosed trailer. It is typically useful for high-valued, luxury, classic, and antique vehicles that require top-notch security during transit.
Is Enclosed Car Transport Worth It?
For the most valuable and precious of vehicles, you can find companies that use one- to two-car enclosed vehicle transport trailers. Fewer vehicles during enclosed transport car shipping lead to a much more personalized service experience for you and your beloved vehicle.
If you’re the kind of car owner that spares no expense and you have a special car that’s worth the added attention, then the open vs. enclosed car shipping debate is no debate at all.
The Pros and Cons of Enclosed Auto Transport
Are you the proud owner of a Pagani Zonda Cinque Roadster, a fully restored 1964 Aston Martin db5, or a 1939 Ford Deluxe? Then, the thought of exposing your beauty to the elements in an open carrier probably makes your skin crawl.
And with good reason! One-of-a-kind cars demand unique carrying options. That’s where enclosed auto transport comes into play.
Pros
Enclosed auto transport represents the ideal solution for moving custom and classic vehicles. Unlike an open carrier, your prized ride will never see the sun, much less the elements, with this option.
Vehicles get housed in a covered truck. As a result, fewer automobiles get transported at any given time. Most have a carrying capacity of about five units, so you don’t have to worry about your car getting lost in the mix, either.
The best shipping companies provide thorough training to their drivers. In other words, you can rest assured your driver is well aware of the value they’re hauling. They also have the experience of getting it there safely.
Cons
Some people assume that they’ll get their vehicle more rapidly when they opt for an enclosed auto hauler. While you might get lucky, it’s more likely that shipping will take a bit longer.
Why? Because there are fewer enclosed car shipping transporters on America’s roadways. In turn, this makes them trickier to schedule.
You’ll also need to get ready for a bigger bill when it comes to going this route. After all, they transport fewer vehicles at a time, and so costs for fuel, the driver, travel, etc., get distributed among a much smaller circle of car owners.
Takeaway
That said, if your car’s like a child to you, then you won’t mind these extra expenses. Instead, you’ll rest assured your ride never gets exposed to weather, sun, grime, or debris.
Yes, it’s a posh form of car transport, but when you’ve got a highly expensive or even priceless vehicle to move, I wouldn’t recommend any other option.
The peace of mind you’ll enjoy, coupled with the safe arrival of your favorite hot rod, will make it well worth the added expense.
What is Open Car Shipping?
Open car shipping is another auto transport method in which the cars are transported on a large trailer. The trailer does not have any sides or a roof, exposing them to external elements throughout the journey. It is a preferable option for standard vehicles.
Are Open Car Carriers Safe?
Compared to enclosed car transport, your car faces a higher level of risk during open car hauling. During open car transport, your vehicle will get exposed to the elements. The open trailers provide very little protection from weather and road debris.
For many car owners, this proves an acceptable trade-off because it is the most common and affordable way to ship a car. And in all honesty, it’s rare for significant damage to be incurred during open-car shipping. If you’re looking to save money and ship a car with no fuss, it’s definitely in your best interest to choose open hauling over enclosed vehicle transport.
The Pros and Cons of Open Auto Transport
Is open auto transport right for your impending vehicle move? The answer to this question depends on many different factors. These factors include how much you want to spend, the value of the car getting moved, and how quickly you need it transported.
Pros
Make no mistake, open auto transport is, by far, the most common method for getting a car from one location to another. It’s an effective, practical, and relatively safe way to transport commuters and daily drivers.
In other words, vehicles that already get exposed to the elements and the wear and tear of the road regularly.
- Cons
What do I mean? When your vehicle gets loaded on a trailer, you must remember that it’ll have no protection against:
- Sun
- Rain
- Hail
- Snow
- Dust
- Insects
- Birds
- Road grime
- Gravel and rock
These are all things that you've grown accustomed to every day you drive your automobile. If you don't have a problem with more of the same, then save yourself serious money by going the open carrier route.
Takeaway
Because of the popularity of this form of car hauling, you’ll also enjoy the best insurance coverage, the most affordable prices, and the pick of the litter when it comes to scheduling pickup and dropoff dates.
Reputable, well-established auto transportation companies that put their customers first will still take great care while moving your car. Their drivers are thoroughly trained to understand the value of the cargo they’re hauling.
What’s more, the cars will remain neatly strapped down to reduce the risk of mobility and vibrations in transit. Overall, open auto transport remains a highly reliable and effective option. One that will help you keep your vehicle shipping cost lower.
Enclosed vs. Open Auto Transport: 5 Major Differences
Let’s discuss the differences between enclosed and auto car shipping services based on various important factors:
1. Cost
- Enclosed transport: Shipping a vehicle in an enclosed trailer typically costs 25-50% more than open transit, particularly due to the higher levels of protection. Furthermore, such car haulers employ specialized features, such as hydraulic lifts and professional drivers, which also add to the overall costs.
- Open transport: Contrarily, open trailers are cost-effective, as they have a simpler design with fewer materials and lower maintenance costs. On average, you can expect to pay between $550-$1600, depending upon the distance, seasonal variations, and size and weight of the car.
2. Capacity
- Enclosed transport: The car-holding capacity of enclosed haulers is lesser than that of open ones. In general, it can accommodate only 1 to 3 vehicles, which is another reason behind its higher costs. Furthermore, this also leads to longer wait times for available slots, which makes it difficult to schedule a delivery.
- Open transport: In a two-tiered open trailer, around 7 to 10 vehicles can be carried on a single trip. Since many vehicles are transported altogether, the overall operational costs are spread across multiple customers, leading to affordable rates.
3. Popularity
- Enclosed transport: The popularity of enclosed car shipping is much lesser than open transport, mainly because it serves a niche market. Its higher cost and limited availability make it less common amongst the general public. As a result, it represents a smaller segment of the car transport market.
- Open transport: Open trailers are so popular that around 90% of vehicles are transported via them. Due to the high demand, many carriers offer this service, leading to its higher availability. Consequently, the market competition is also high, which contributes to its lower costs. Thus, it is a go-to choice for most car owners and dealerships.
4. Insurance Coverage
- Enclosed transport: Due to the higher value of vehicles that are transported in enclosed trailers, the insurance coverage is also priced at premium. Although, the chances of vehicle damage is lesser with them, it’s still a crucial requirement, considering the luxurious and expensive cars.
- Open transport: Open transport companies also provide insurance coverage, but they are not as high as that offered for enclosed car hauling. It is important to cover potential issues as the risk of minor cosmetic damage is slightly higher.
5. Types
- Enclosed transport: Here are some common types of enclosed trailers:
- Soft-sided haulers: They are made of durable tarpaulin material and are the most cost-effective option. Although these car haulers offer protection against rain and debris, they are not as secure as hard-sided trailers.
- Hard-sided haulers: For highest levels of security, opt for hard-sided trailers having solid walls, roofs, and floors. It is typically suitable for cars with delicate paint finishes, convertible tops, or any such feature that harsh weather may damage.
- Single-car enclosed haulers: These trailers are exclusive and carry one vehicle at a time. This personalized service eliminates any risk of damage from other vehicles being loaded or unloaded in close proximity.
- Multi-car open trailers: This is the most common type of car hauler, in which multiple vehicles are transported simultaneously. For example, collectors attending car auctions or families relocating across the country can use this method.
- Single-car open trailers: In this type, a single vehicle is shipped at a time in an open setting. While the car is still exposed to external elements, it gets more attention during loading and unloading.
- Flatbed trailers: Although less common, flatbed trailers are used for transporting oversized vehicles or those with unusual shapes that cannot fit on standard multi-car trailers. They offer flexibility in terms of vehicle types that can be transported.
Which Option Is Best For Your Needs?
To finally choose between enclosed and open car shipping, you need to consider a few crucial factors. Here is a table that will help you with this:
Factor |
Enclosed Auto Transport |
Open Auto Transport |
Type and Value of Vehicle |
Luxury, rare, and high-valued cars |
Everyday lower-value vehicles |
Budget |
More expensive |
Affordable |
Protection Required |
Higher |
Minimal |
Delivery Time |
Longer scheduling times and delayed delivery |
Faster availability and quicker delivery |
Frequency |
Preferred for occasional, premium transports |
Suitable for frequent, bulk, or dealership transits |
Simply put, if your car is high-valued and you have no budget constraints, go for enclosed transport. However, remember that with extra protection comes a few drawbacks too, such as long delivery times and lesser availability.
On the other hand, if you are shipping a standard vehicle, it is better to opt for open trailers, as you can save a substantial amount on them. Moreover, their shipping duration is quicker, too.
Nexus Auto Transport - Your Valuable Partner For Open and Enclosed Auto Transport
Whether you want to ship your vehicle in an open car hauler or an enclosed one, Nexus Auto Transport’s exceptional services can help! With 9+ years in business, we have transported more than 150,000 vehicles safely. Furthermore, our trailers are highly secured, and trained drivers handle all the operations.
We also offer door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping for your utmost ease. Visit our cost calculator now to get an accurately estimated quote and book the delivery online seamlessly.
