Open vs enclosed car transport: which one do you need?
Open carriers move most cars in the US and cost less. Enclosed trailers protect high-value cars from weather and road debris. Here is how to choose.
When you ask for a car shipping quote, one of the first questions is whether you want open or enclosed transport. It changes the price and how your car travels.
Open transport
Open carriers are the two-level trailers you see on the highway carrying eight or more cars. They move the large majority of cars shipped in the US, including new cars from factories to dealers.
- Cheaper, because the truck carries more cars at once.
- Easier to schedule, because there are far more open carriers on the road.
- Your car is exposed to weather and road dust, the same as when you drive it. It may arrive dirty and need a wash.
Enclosed transport
Enclosed trailers have walls and a roof. They usually carry fewer cars, often with a lift gate instead of steep ramps.
- Protects against rain, hail, sun and road debris.
- Better for classic, exotic, luxury or low-clearance cars.
- Costs more, and there are fewer enclosed carriers, so pickup can take longer to arrange.
How much more does enclosed cost?
On our site, reviewers who reported their price paid about $926 on average for open transport (1,810 reviews) and about $1,285 for enclosed (100 reviews). Those reviews mostly date from 2015 to 2017, so today's prices are higher, but enclosed has consistently cost noticeably more than open.
Which should you pick?
- Everyday car, SUV or truck: open transport is the normal choice.
- Car worth well above average, a classic, or freshly restored paint: enclosed is worth considering.
- Very low ground clearance: enclosed with a lift gate avoids scraping on ramps.
Whatever you choose, inspect the car at pickup and delivery and note any damage on the bill of lading. See how to inspect your car at delivery.
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