When it comes to shipping a vehicle, two main options are available: open auto transport and enclosed car shipping.
While both methods serve the same purpose of transporting cars, they differ in terms of protection, cost, and use cases.
This article will explore how open auto transport differs from enclosed car shipping, helping you decide which option is best for your vehicle.
Level of Protection
The most significant difference between open auto transport and enclosed car shipping is the level of protection they offer.
Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport involves shipping vehicles on an open-air trailer, where they are exposed to the elements during the journey.
While the cars are securely fastened to the trailer, they are vulnerable to weather conditions such as rain, snow, wind, and sun, as well as road debris like dirt, dust, and small rocks.
Despite this exposure, open transport is generally considered safe for most standard vehicles, and significant damage is rare.
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping, on the other hand, offers superior protection by transporting vehicles inside a fully enclosed trailer.
This method shields cars from the elements and road debris, making it the preferred option for high-value, luxury, exotic, or classic cars that require extra care.
Enclosed transport ensures that your vehicle arrives in pristine condition, free from weather-related wear or damage from road debris.
Cost
Another key difference between open auto transport and enclosed car shipping is the cost involved.
Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport is the more affordable option because the trailers can carry more vehicles at once—up to 10 cars in some cases.
This allows the cost to be spread out among multiple customers, making it a budget-friendly choice for most standard vehicles.
If you're looking for the most cost-effective way to ship your car, open auto transport is likely the best option.
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping is more expensive because the trailers carry fewer vehicles, typically two to six cars, which increases the cost per vehicle.
Additionally, the extra protection and specialized handling required for high-value cars drive up the price.
While enclosed transport is more costly, it's worth the investment for owners of luxury or classic cars who want to ensure their vehicle arrives in perfect condition.
Availability
When it comes to availability, open auto transport is much more widely offered than enclosed car shipping.
Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport is the standard method for vehicle shipping, which means it's offered by most auto transport companies.
This makes it easier to find a transport company that provides open auto transport, and you'll likely have more flexibility in scheduling your shipment.
If you're shipping your car during a busy season or need to schedule a last-minute shipment, open transport is more likely to be available.
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping, on the other hand, is less widely available because it's a specialized service that caters to high-value vehicles.
Fewer transport companies offer enclosed shipping, and you may need to book your shipment well in advance to secure a spot on an enclosed trailer.
If you're planning to ship a luxury or classic car, it's important to account for the limited availability of enclosed transport when scheduling your shipment.
Use Cases
Open auto transport and enclosed car shipping are used for different types of vehicles and situations:
Open Auto Transport
Open car transport service is suitable for most standard vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, trucks, and vans.
If your car is used for everyday driving and doesn't have special modifications or high-end finishes, open transport is a safe and affordable option.
This method is ideal for individuals moving to a new location, dealerships transporting multiple cars, and manufacturers shipping new vehicles to dealerships.
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping is recommended for high-value, luxury, exotic, or classic cars that require extra protection.
If your vehicle has a custom paint job, unique modifications, or is of significant monetary or sentimental value, enclosed transport provides the security and care needed to protect it during transit.
Enclosed shipping is also used for cars that are rare or difficult to replace, as the added protection reduces the risk of damage that could impact the car's value.
Security
Another key difference between the two methods is the level of security they offer:
Open Auto Transport
Since open auto transport trailers are exposed, the vehicles are visible to the public during transit, which may increase the risk of theft or vandalism, particularly during overnight stops.
However, reputable transport companies take precautions to ensure the safety of the vehicles, and theft or vandalism is rare.
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping offers superior security because the vehicle is fully enclosed and hidden from view during transit.
This makes it less likely to attract attention from potential thieves or vandals, providing peace of mind for owners of high-value vehicles.
Conclusion
The primary differences between open auto transport and enclosed car shipping come down to the level of protection, cost, and use cases.
Open auto transport is the more affordable and widely available option, making it suitable for most standard vehicles.
Enclosed car shipping, while more expensive, offers superior protection and security, making it the best choice for luxury, exotic, or classic cars that require extra care during transit.
By understanding these differences, you can choose the transport method that best fits your vehicle's needs and your budget.
