Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping: What’s Best for Your Vehicle?

Transporting your car can be a complex process that requires careful planning. Choosing the right shipping method can make all the difference when moving across the country or transporting a collector’s car to a show.

With different types of vehicles and transport needs, understanding your options is key to avoiding unnecessary costs or complications. The two main options, open and enclosed car transport, serve different needs when it comes to cost, protection, and timing.

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each to help you confidently answer the question: “Should I ship my car open or enclosed?” By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which transport type, open or enclosed, fits your needs and how to book it with confidence.

What Is Open Car Shipping?

Open car transport is the most common and cost-effective method. Vehicles are loaded onto open-air trailers, often arranged on two levels, allowing for up to 8–10 cars to be shipped at once.

This method is frequently used for dealership deliveries, personal moves, and auto auctions. Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of open car shipping for you to take into account.

Pros:

• Lower cost compared to enclosed

• Faster scheduling due to wide availability

• Ideal for short- to mid-range distances and standard vehicles

Cons:

• Cars are exposed to weather, road debris, and dust

• Less suited for luxury or high-value vehicles

Open transport strikes a great balance between cost and convenience for most car owners. Still, those shipping rare or valuable cars should weigh protection more heavily in their decision.

What Is Enclosed Car Shipping?

Enclosed auto transport involves shipping vehicles inside a covered trailer, fully protecting them from the elements. These trailers typically carry 1 to 5 vehicles and are often used for shipping luxury, vintage, exotic, or collector cars.

Pros:

• Maximum protection from rain, snow, dirt, and road debris
• Limited handling means a lower risk of scratches or dings
• Often comes with higher insurance coverage. This may vary depending on the car transport company, so check it before hiring.

Cons:

• More expensive—often 30 - 60% higher than open transport
• Limited availability and slightly longer lead times

Enclosed auto transport provides peace of mind for owners who prioritize vehicle protection above all else. While the cost is higher, many find the extra expense worthwhile to safeguard their prized automobiles during transit.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Open vs Enclosed Car Transport

Reviewing this side-by-side breakdown makes it easier to weigh what matters most to you: cost, timing, or protection. Whether you’re looking for the most affordable option or the highest level of care, this table helps you move forward with confidence.

Cost Differences: Open vs Enclosed

Open car transport is generally the more affordable choice, with prices typically ranging from $500 to $800, depending on distance and vehicle type. Enclosed transport, in contrast, typically costs between $900 and $1,400 or more.

Why the difference? Enclosed trailers carry fewer vehicles, use specialized equipment, and offer higher insurance coverage. Seasonal demand, distance, and your car’s size and condition can also influence pricing.

Additionally, enclosed shipping requires more careful handling and often involves longer routes to meet specific delivery requirements. Weather conditions and time of year can cause price fluctuations, especially during peak moving seasons.

For those on a tight budget, open transport costs 30% - 60% less without sacrificing reliability. Ultimately, getting multiple quotes helps ensure you find the best deal tailored to your vehicle and schedule.

When Should You Choose Open Transport?

Open car transport is a smart option for daily drivers and used cars. This is also the most chosen type of transport for budget-conscious relocations that have short to medium distances.

It offers reliable service at a lower cost, making it ideal for most standard vehicle shipments. Because it’s so widely used, scheduling is usually quicker and more flexible.

If you’re looking to balance affordability with convenience, open transport is often the best match. It’s also great for sellers or dealerships needing fast turnaround. Plus, most carriers offer regular open service routes, which makes booking even easier.

When Is Enclosed Car Shipping the Better Option?

Enclosed transport is the better choice when your vehicle needs premium protection, whether due to its value, condition, or sentimental worth. It’s ideal for classic, exotic, or luxury cars, as well as high-end SUVs, EVs, or low-clearance vehicles that require special handling.

This method is especially useful for long-distance or cross-country moves and for routes that experience extreme weather. The added cost often pays off in peace of mind and better vehicle care.

This method is ideal for vehicles that need white-glove care or when transporting irreplaceable or fragile models, ensuring they arrive in pristine condition. It’s the go-to choice for car shows, auctions, and anyone who demands the highest level of care during transit.

How to Decide: Open or Enclosed?

Still unsure whether you should ship your car open or enclosed? Use these questions to compare open vs enclosed car shipping based on your own needs and expectations.

• What is your vehicle’s value, financial and emotional?
• Are you okay with some exposure to weather and road debris?
• How urgent is your delivery timeline?
• What does your budget allow?

Your answers will help you balance protection, price, and timing based on your unique situation. If you’re shipping a standard vehicle and looking to save money, open transport is likely your best bet.

But if your vehicle holds significant value, financially or emotionally, enclosed shipping may be worth the extra investment.

Need help to choose? Move Cars makes it easy to compare open vs enclosed car shipping quotes so you can make the best decision for your vehicle.

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How Move Cars Can Help

Move Cars connects you with top-rated, FMCSA-licensed car transport companies that offer both open and enclosed car shipping services. Whether you’re looking to ship a standard sedan or a high-end collector car, our platform simplifies the entire process.

Move Cars helps you to:

• Compare real-time prices side by side for open vs enclosed car shipping.

• Sort options based on carrier reviews, shipping timelines, insurance coverage, and transport type.

• Filter by preferences and instantly find a provider that fits your needs.

• Book confidently knowing you’re working with vetted, trusted car shipping professionals.

You don’t have to spend hours researching or guessing which method or company is right for you. Move Cars brings all the key information together in one place so you can get custom quotes in minutes and make your decision with confidence.

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FAQs: Open vs Enclosed Transport

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