Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport: Which One Do You Actually Need?
Open vs. enclosed car transport compared: protection, availability, cost and which vehicles need enclosed. Make the right choice and get a free quote.
One of the first questions you'll answer when shipping a car is whether you want open or enclosed transport. Both get your car where it needs to go. The right choice depends on your car, your budget and how much protection you want.
What is open car transport?
Open transport uses the multi-level carriers you see on the highway, the same trucks dealerships use to move new inventory. Your car rides in the open air, secured to the trailer.
Pros
- The most economical option
- The most widely available, so dispatch is usually faster
- Ideal for everyday cars, SUVs and trucks
Cons
- Exposed to weather and road dust, just as it would be if you drove it
Learn more about open auto transport.
What is enclosed car transport?
Enclosed transport moves your car inside a fully covered trailer. Many enclosed carriers use liftgates and soft-tie straps, which is ideal for low or delicate vehicles.
Pros
- Protection from weather, debris and road grime
- Liftgate loading for low-clearance cars
- Extra care for high-value vehicles
Cons
- Costs more, because fewer cars fit per trailer
- Fewer trucks available, so booking ahead matters more
Learn more about enclosed auto transport.
Side-by-side comparison
| Open transport | Enclosed transport | |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Exposed to the elements | Fully covered |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Availability | High, on most routes | Lower, so book ahead |
| Best for | Daily drivers, SUVs, trucks, dealer inventory | Classics, exotics, luxury, low-clearance cars |
| Loading | Ramps | Often liftgate |
When open transport is the smart choice
- Your car is a daily driver
- You want the best value
- You need the most flexible pickup dates
- You're a dealer moving standard inventory
When to choose enclosed
- Classic or collector cars, especially with original paint
- Exotic and luxury vehicles
- Low-clearance or modified cars
- Long winter routes where road salt is a concern
- Brand-new or freshly detailed cars that need to arrive spotless
Questions to ask before you book
- Are carriers checked with the FMCSA before they're assigned?
- Is the carrier's insurance verified before pickup?
- Will the condition be recorded on a Bill of Lading at pickup and delivery?
- Can I track the shipment?
- For enclosed: does the carrier use a liftgate?
With us, the answer to all five is yes. See how it works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Open transport is the industry standard and how most vehicles in the U.S. are moved, including new cars headed to dealerships.
For high-value, classic or low-clearance cars, usually yes. For a daily driver, open is typically the better value.
Contact us as soon as possible. We'll check enclosed availability for your dates.
Ready to ship your car?
Get a free quote, call now, or leave your number and we'll call you back.