Open Auto Transport vs. Enclosed Auto Transport: Which Should You Choose?

When shipping a vehicle, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is whether to choose open auto transport or enclosed auto transport.

Both options have their own advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

This article will compare open and enclosed auto transport, helping you determine which option is the best fit for your vehicle.

What Is Open Auto Transport?

Open auto transport is the most common method of vehicle shipping

It involves transporting cars on an open-air trailer, where they are exposed to weather conditions and road debris.

Open transport is typically used for standard vehicles and is the more affordable option.

What Is Enclosed Auto Transport?

Enclosed auto transport, on the other hand, involves shipping vehicles in a fully enclosed trailer, protecting them from the elements.

This method is often used for high-value cars, such as luxury, exotic, or classic vehicles, as it provides added protection during transit.

Advantages of Open Auto Transport

Open transport car shipping offers several advantages, making it the go-to option for most vehicle shipments:

Cost-Effective

The primary advantage of open auto transport is its lower cost.

Since open carriers can transport multiple vehicles at once, the cost is spread out, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Widely Available

Open auto transport is the most common method of vehicle shipping, so it’s widely available and easier to book than enclosed transport.

This makes it a convenient choice for those looking for fast and affordable service.

Efficient

Open trailers can carry more vehicles than enclosed trailers, making the process more efficient.

This can result in quicker shipping times and more frequent availability of transport services.

Advantages of Enclosed Auto Transport

While enclosed auto transport is more expensive, it offers several benefits that make it worth considering for certain vehicles:

Protection from the Elements

One of the main advantages of enclosed transport is the added protection it provides.

Since the vehicle is shipped inside a fully enclosed trailer, it’s shielded from weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and sun, as well as road debris.

Ideal for High-Value Vehicles

If you’re shipping a luxury, exotic, or classic car, enclosed transport is often the better option.

The added protection ensures that your vehicle arrives in pristine condition, without the risk of damage from the elements or debris.

More Security

Enclosed transport offers more security for high-value cars, as the vehicle is completely covered and less visible to potential thieves or vandals.

This makes it a safer option for valuable or rare vehicles.

Disadvantages of Open Auto Transport

While open auto transport is the more affordable option, it does come with some disadvantages:

Exposure to Weather and Debris

Since vehicles are transported on an open trailer, they are exposed to the elements during transit.

This means your car may be subjected to rain, snow, or sun, as well as dust, dirt, and road debris.

While damage from these factors is rare, it’s something to consider, especially if you’re shipping a high-value vehicle.

Disadvantages of Enclosed Auto Transport

The main drawback of enclosed auto transport is its higher cost:

More Expensive

Enclosed auto transport is significantly more expensive than open transport, often costing up to 50% more.

This is because enclosed trailers can carry fewer vehicles, and the added protection requires more specialized handling.

Limited Availability

Enclosed auto transport is less common than open transport, so it may be harder to find and book.

If you’re shipping during a busy season or need expedited service, availability may be more limited for enclosed trailers.

Which Option Should You Choose?

The decision between open and enclosed auto transport comes down to the value of your vehicle and your budget.

If you’re shipping a standard car and want to keep costs low, open auto transport is likely the best option.

However, if you’re shipping a high-value, luxury, or classic car, the added protection of enclosed transport is worth the extra expense.

Conclusion

Both open and enclosed auto transport offer unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs.

Open auto transport is the most affordable and widely available option, making it ideal for most standard vehicles.

Enclosed auto transport provides added protection and security, making it the better choice for high-value vehicles.

By considering the value of your car, your budget, and your preferences for protection, you can choose the transport method that’s right for you.