When booking vehicle transport, one of the most important decisions is choosing between open and enclosed car shipping.
Both methods can transport a vehicle safely, but they differ in cost, protection, availability and the types of vehicles they are best suited for.
Understanding these differences can help you choose the right shipping option without paying for protection you may not need.
What Is Open Car Shipping?
Open car shipping uses a multi-level trailer that usually carries several vehicles at the same time.
It is the most common method used by auto transport companies, dealerships and vehicle auctions.
Because open carriers are widely available, this option is generally easier to schedule and more affordable than enclosed transport.
Open shipping is suitable for:
- Standard cars
- Family vehicles
- Used vehicles
- SUVs and pickup trucks
- Dealership inventory
- Daily-use vehicles
The main limitation is that the vehicle remains exposed to weather, road dust and small debris during transport.
However, open transport is still widely considered a reliable option for most standard vehicles.
What Is Enclosed Car Shipping?
Enclosed car shipping transports vehicles inside a covered trailer.
The enclosed structure provides additional protection from rain, dust, road debris and public visibility.
Some enclosed carriers also provide hydraulic lift gates, soft tie-down systems and specialised loading equipment for vehicles with low ground clearance.
Enclosed shipping is commonly selected for:
- Classic cars
- Luxury vehicles
- Exotic cars
- Collector vehicles
- Custom or modified cars
- High-value vehicles
- Vehicles with delicate paintwork
Because enclosed trailers carry fewer vehicles and are less widely available, this service normally costs more.
Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping Cost
Open transport is generally the more affordable option because carriers can move more vehicles during one trip.
Enclosed transport may cost significantly more due to:
- Limited trailer space
- Specialised equipment
- Additional vehicle protection
- Fewer available carriers
- Greater handling requirements
The final price will also depend on the transport distance, vehicle size, route, season and pickup location.
For an ordinary daily-use car, open transport usually provides the best value. For a rare or expensive vehicle, the additional cost of enclosed shipping may be worthwhile.
Which Option Provides Better Protection?
Enclosed transport provides the highest level of protection because the vehicle is completely covered during the trip.
Open transport still includes standard loading procedures, secure tie-downs and carrier insurance, but the vehicle is exposed to outdoor conditions.
Customers choosing open shipping can reduce concerns by washing and photographing the car before pickup. This creates a clear record of the vehicle’s condition before transport.
Which Shipping Method Is Faster?
Open car shipping may be easier to arrange because more open carriers operate throughout the country.
Enclosed shipping can sometimes require a longer pickup window, particularly on less popular routes.
Actual transit time is usually based more on distance, weather, road conditions and the carrier’s schedule than on the trailer type.
How Do You Choose the Right Option?
Choose open transport when:
- You are shipping a standard vehicle
- Keeping costs low is important
- You need greater carrier availability
- The vehicle is regularly driven outdoors
Choose enclosed transport when:
- The vehicle is rare or highly valuable
- It has custom paint or modifications
- It has low ground clearance
- You want maximum protection and privacy
- The cost of possible cosmetic damage would be significant
Final Thoughts
There is no single best option for every vehicle.
Open car shipping is affordable, widely available and suitable for most everyday vehicles. Enclosed car shipping provides greater protection and is better suited to luxury, classic, customised and high-value cars.
Before booking, compare transport companies, review their insurance details and confirm exactly what is included in the quoted price.
Transport Rankings helps customers compare auto transport companies, evaluate reviews and choose a provider suited to their vehicle and budget.