Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport: Which One Do Car Transport Companies Recommend?

When shipping a vehicle, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing between open car transport and enclosed car transport. Both methods have their advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of vehicle you're transporting. Car transport companies typically recommend one option over the other based on factors such as vehicle value, shipping distance, and weather conditions. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between open and enclosed car transport, the benefits of each, and which one transport experts recommend for different situations.

Understanding Open Car Transport

What Is Open Car Transport?

Open car transport is the most common and cost-effective method of vehicle shipping. In this method, vehicles are loaded onto an open trailer, which can typically carry multiple cars at a time. These trailers are commonly seen on highways, transporting cars from one location to another, including dealership deliveries and cross-country relocations.

Benefits of Open Car Transport

One of the main reasons car transport companies recommend open transport is its affordability. Since multiple vehicles are transported together, the cost per car is lower, making this option more budget-friendly. Open car transport is widely available, meaning it’s easier to find a carrier that fits your preferred schedule. Additionally, open trailers are lighter, which allows for better fuel efficiency and faster transport times compared to enclosed carriers.

From a reliability standpoint, open transport is the industry standard, and thousands of vehicles are shipped this way every day without issue. This method is also preferred by dealerships and rental car companies because it provides an efficient way to move large numbers of vehicles at once.

Drawbacks of Open Car Transport

The main disadvantage of open transport is exposure to the elements. Because the vehicles are transported on an open-air trailer, they are susceptible to weather conditions like rain, snow, and dust, as well as road debris. While the risk of damage is minimal, there is still a possibility of minor cosmetic wear, such as dirt accumulation or small scratches from flying debris.

Car transport companies generally recommend open transport for everyday vehicles, such as sedans, SUVs, and trucks, as these vehicles are built to withstand regular road conditions and minor exposure to the elements.

Understanding Enclosed Car Transport

What Is Enclosed Car Transport?

Enclosed car transport involves shipping vehicles inside a fully covered, enclosed trailer. These trailers provide complete protection from outside elements, ensuring that the vehicle remains in pristine condition throughout the journey. Enclosed transport is often used for luxury cars, classic cars, exotic vehicles, and high-end sports cars that require additional care.

Benefits of Enclosed Car Transport

The biggest advantage of enclosed auto transport is the level of protection it offers. Since the vehicle is completely enclosed, it is safeguarded from weather conditions, dirt, road debris, and any other potential hazards. This makes it the best choice for high-value vehicles, where even minor scratches or dirt accumulation can be a concern.

Another benefit of enclosed transport is added security. Enclosed trailers are less visible to the public, which reduces the risk of theft or vandalism during transit. Additionally, many enclosed transport services offer specialized handling and additional safety measures, such as soft straps, hydraulic lift gates, and climate-controlled trailers for delicate vehicles.

For car collectors, exotic car owners, and classic car enthusiasts, enclosed transport is the preferred option to ensure their prized vehicles arrive in perfect condition.

Drawbacks of Enclosed Car Transport

The biggest downside of enclosed transport is the higher cost. Since these trailers carry fewer vehicles and provide specialized services, the price is significantly higher than open transport. On average, enclosed car shipping can cost 40-60% more than open transport, making it less practical for everyday vehicle owners.

Availability is another factor to consider. Since there are fewer enclosed carriers in operation compared to open carriers, scheduling an enclosed transport service may take longer, especially during peak seasons.

Which Transport Method Do Car Shipping Companies Recommend?

Car transport companies typically recommend open transport for most customers because it is affordable, efficient, and widely available. If you are shipping a standard vehicle and do not require extra protection, open transport is the best choice. It is a reliable and industry-standard option for shipping cars safely across long distances.

However, if you own a luxury car, classic car, exotic vehicle, or a car with custom modifications, enclosed transport is the better option. Car transport companies recommend this method when protection from external elements is a priority and when the vehicle being transported is of high value.

In certain cases, transport experts may recommend enclosed shipping even for regular cars, especially if they are being transported through extreme weather conditions or in regions where road debris is a significant concern. If you have any doubts about which option to choose, consulting with a reputable car transport company can help you determine the best service for your specific needs.

Conclusion

Choosing between open and enclosed car transport depends on your budget, vehicle type, and level of protection required. Open transport is the preferred choice for most people due to its affordability and efficiency, while enclosed transport is best for high-value vehicles that require additional safety.

 

If you’re looking for a reliable auto shipping company, Rapid Auto Shipping offers both open and enclosed transport services to fit your needs. Whether you’re shipping a family car or a rare luxury vehicle, we provide professional and secure vehicle transport at competitive rates. Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you choose the best transport option for your car!