Open vs. Enclosed Auto Transport

Open and enclosed transport both move vehicles safely when handled by qualified carriers. The right choice depends on the value of the vehicle, the desired protection level, timing, and budget.

Open transport

Open car haulers are the most common option on the road. They typically offer better availability and more competitive pricing because more carriers operate this equipment.

• Best for daily drivers and standard vehicles.
• Usually faster to dispatch in busy markets.
• More cost-efficient for most customers.

Enclosed transport

Enclosed transport places the vehicle inside a covered trailer. It is commonly used for collector cars, luxury vehicles, race vehicles, and high-value shipments where extra protection is worth the added cost.

• Best for high-value, rare, or weather-sensitive vehicles.
• Adds protection from road debris and exposure.
• May require more lead time because fewer enclosed carriers are available.