Every car shipment begins with one decision: open or enclosed. The choice affects the price more than anything except distance. For most people the answer is simple, and for a few it deserves some thought. Here is how to decide.
What each one is
An open carrier is the long, two-level truck you see on the interstate carrying seven to ten vehicles. The cars are strapped down by the wheels and exposed to the air. It is the way nearly all new cars reach dealerships.
An enclosed carrier has walls and a roof. It holds fewer vehicles, often between one and seven, and it shields them from weather, road debris, and attention. Many have a hydraulic lift gate that raises a car level to the deck.
The comparison at a glance
| Open | Enclosed | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | The lowest available | About 60 to 80 percent more |
| Protection | Exposed to weather and road dust | Fully covered |
| Scheduling | Easy, with many carriers | Fewer carriers, more lead time |
| Loading | Standard ramps | Often a lift gate |
| Best for | Everyday vehicles | High-value and delicate vehicles |
How big is the price difference?
Plan on enclosed transport costing 60 to 80 percent more than open on the same route. If an open shipment would be $600, the enclosed price is likely to be between $960 and $1,080. On a $1,400 cross-country move, expect roughly $2,240 to $2,520.
The reason is capacity. An enclosed trailer carries fewer cars, so each one pays a larger share of the trip. The equipment also costs more to buy and to run.
How much risk is there on an open carrier?
Less than people fear. A car on an open trailer faces the same conditions it would if you drove it, without the wear on the engine and tires. It will arrive dusty, and after rain it may have water spots. Damage from a stone or debris can happen, though it is uncommon, and it is covered by the carrier's cargo insurance when it does.
If you would drive the car on the same highway without worrying, open transport is appropriate.
When enclosed is worth it
- Classic and collector cars with original or freshly restored paint.
- Exotic and supercars with low bodywork and expensive carbon fiber.
- Luxury vehicles you want delivered in showroom condition.
- Cars with very low ground clearance, which need a lift gate.
- Show and auction vehicles that must arrive clean and on time.
- Winter cross-country trips, when road salt and storms are part of the route.
A middle option: the top rack
If your vehicle falls somewhere in between, ask for a top-rack position on an open carrier. On the upper deck, the car is above the spray from the road and cannot be dripped on by another vehicle. It costs only a little more than a standard spot. Availability depends on the truck, so request it when you book.
Does the choice affect timing?
Time in transit is about the same. The difference is in finding a truck. Open carriers are everywhere, and a pickup can often be arranged within a few days. Enclosed carriers are fewer, so it is wise to book one to two weeks earlier, especially in summer.
A simple way to decide
Ask yourself two questions. First, would a small chip or scratch be a minor annoyance or a real loss? Second, is the extra cost small compared with what the vehicle is worth? If the answers are "a real loss" and "yes," ship enclosed. Otherwise, open transport will serve you well and leave money in your pocket.
If you are still unsure, call us. We will tell you which we would choose for your vehicle, even when that is the less expensive one.