Enclosed vs. Open Car Shipping
Many customers ask how enclosed car shipping compares to open car shipping. Both options safely transport vehicles, but they serve different needs.
Open car shipping is the most common and affordable option. Vehicles are transported on an open trailer, making it an excellent choice for everyday cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks. While it is reliable, your vehicle is exposed to weather, road debris, and dust during transit.
Enclosed car shipping provides a much higher level of protection. Your vehicle is transported inside a fully enclosed trailer, shielding it from rain, snow, sunlight, dirt, and road hazards. This option is recommended for luxury, classic, exotic, collector, and high-value vehicles where preserving the vehicle’s condition is a priority.
Although enclosed transport costs more than open transport, many owners consider the additional protection well worth the investment for valuable or irreplaceable vehicles.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Enclosed Shipping
Preparing your vehicle before pickup helps ensure a smooth transport process.
Before your scheduled pickup:
- Wash your vehicle so its condition can be accurately inspected.
- Take clear photos of the exterior and interior for your records.
- Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle.
- Leave no more than one-quarter tank of fuel.
- Disable any alarms that could activate during transport.
- Ensure the battery is charged and the tires are properly inflated.
When our driver arrives, a detailed inspection of your vehicle will be completed with you. Any existing scratches, dents, or other cosmetic issues will be documented on the inspection report before the vehicle is carefully loaded into the enclosed trailer. This process helps ensure complete transparency and peace of mind throughout your shipment.