Choose open car shipping if you want an affordable, efficient option for everyday vehicles. Go with enclosed transport if you’re moving a luxury, classic, or high-value car that needs extra protection from weather and road debris. We’ll break down how both options compare in cost, safety, and convenience so you can make the best choice for your move.
Key Takeaways
- Open shipping is the budget-friendly default. It’s often significantly cheaper and widely available, suitable for most everyday cars.
- Enclosed shipping offers top-tier protection. Enclosed trailers shield cars from weather, road debris, and offer added security, making it ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
- The cost difference is significant. Enclosed shipping usually runs 30–60% more than open shipping, depending on distance, vehicle size, and availability.
- Consider your vehicle and shipping needs. For a standard sedan on a budget, open shipping works fine. For expensive, exotic, or irreplaceable cars, enclosed may be worth the premium.
We’re Here To Help
Jump to the open vs. enclosed transport info you’re looking for:
Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping
Open and enclosed car shipping both get your vehicle safely from point A to point B, but they differ in cost, protection, and convenience. Here’s how each works, and when one might make more sense than the other.
Open vs. Enclosed: Side-By-Side Comparison
| Open Transport | Enclosed Transport | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Everyday sedans, SUVs, and standard vehicles where price and availability matter most | Luxury, exotic, classic, collectible, or low-clearance vehicles that need extra protection |
| Typical price range | Baseline | Usually ~30%–60% more than open transport |
| Carrier availability/scheduling speed | High availability, faster pickup windows | Lower availability, may require more lead time |
| Protection level | Moderate: exposed to weather & road debris | High: shielded from weather, debris, & most road hazards |
| Typical load count | 5–10 cars per trailer | 1–4 cars per trailer |
| Typical Insurance Ranges* | $50,000–$150,000 cargo coverage | $100,000–$250,000+ cargo coverage |
*Insurance varies by carrier, route, and vehicle type.
Open Car Shipping
Open car shipping is the standard and most common way to move vehicles. According to Navi Auto Transport, nearly 90% of all auto transport shipments are use open carriers. These trailers are typically two-tiered and capable of hauling between 7 to 10 vehicles at a time, making them ideal for efficient, cost-effective transport over long distances.Cars are loaded onto open-air trailers that typically carry seven to 10 vehicles at once. Because multiple cars share space, the cost per vehicle stays low, making this option the most budget-friendly.
Open transport is widely available and easy to schedule. While cars are exposed to weather, dust, and road debris, serious damage is rather rare. This is the go-to option for everyday vehicles, short moves, and budget-conscious shippers.
Pros
- Lower cost than enclosed shipping
- Faster scheduling, with more carrier availability
- Suitable for standard vehicles
- Ideal for customers on a tight timeline or budget
- Easier to coordinate multi-vehicle shipments
Cons
- Exposed to weather, dust, and road debris
- Less privacy and visibility control
- Severe weather can delay delivery
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping places your vehicle inside a covered trailer that provides complete protection from the elements. These trailers typically carry two to six vehicles and often include hydraulic lifts and soft straps for delicate or low-clearance cars. Because fewer cars fit per load, prices are higher, but so is peace of mind.
This option is best for luxury, exotic, or classic cars where protection matters more than cost. If you’re moving cross-country, relocating a collector vehicle, or shipping in harsh weather, enclosed transport provides maximum security and minimal exposure risk.
Pros
- Full protection from weather and road debris
- Higher security and privacy
- Some enclosed carriers offer climate-controlled options
- Reduced risk of scratches or cosmetic damage
- Hydraulic lift gates and soft-strap tie-downs for added protection
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than open transport
- Longer scheduling times due to smaller trucks
- Not cost-effective for shorter moves where exposure risk is minimal
Types of Enclosed Car Shipping
Not all enclosed transport is the same. Trailer type, loading method, and vehicle capacity can all affect protection level, pricing, and scheduling speed. Here’s how the most common enclosed options compare.
Hard-Sided Enclosed Trailers
Best for: Luxury, exotic, and high-value vehicles
Hard-sided trailers use rigid aluminum or composite walls to fully shield vehicles from weather, debris, and outside visibility. These offer the highest level of protection and security.
- Maximum protection from road debris and weather
- Greater privacy and theft deterrence
- Often used for show cars and collector vehicles
When it matters: Ideal for six-figure vehicles, rare classics, or long-distance winter shipments
Soft-Sided Enclosed Trailers
Best for: Added protection at a slightly lower cost
Soft-sided trailers use heavy-duty vinyl or canvas walls stretched over a frame. They protect against weather and most debris while typically costing slightly less than hard-sided trailers.
- Protection from rain, dust, and light debris
- Usually more affordable than hard-sided options
- Common for mid-range luxury vehicles
When it matters: A good middle-ground for newer luxury cars that need more protection than open shipping, but don’t require maximum shielding
Single-Car Enclosed Transport
Best for: High-end, time-sensitive deliveries
Single-car enclosed trailers carry just one vehicle at a time. This reduces handling, loading complexity, and scheduling delays caused by multi-stop routes.
- Minimal loading/unloading risk
- Direct, faster routing
- Premium pricing
When it matters: Ideal for auction purchases, exotic cars, or vehicles headed directly to shows or dealerships
Liftgate vs. Ramp Loading
Best for: Low-clearance or specialty vehicles
Standard trailers use angled ramps to load vehicles. Liftgate-equipped enclosed carriers use hydraulic platforms that keep the car level during loading and unloading.
- Ramp loading: Works for most vehicles
- Liftgate loading: Safer for lowered, modified, or exotic cars
When it matters: Essential for cars with low ground clearance, custom body kits, or fragile undercarriages
Open vs. Enclosed Shipping Costs
| Distance | Open shipping | Enclosed shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | $350–$800 | $600–$1,200 |
| 500–1,500 miles | $700–$1,400 | $1,100–$2,100 |
| 1,500+ miles | $1,000–$1,900 | $1,500–$3,000+ |
Ranges are estimates for a standard operable sedan. Final pricing varies by route popularity, season, vehicle size/weight, and how quickly you need pickup.
What Impacts Car Shipping Costs?
- Distance: Longer trips mean higher fuel and driver costs
- Vehicle size and type: Large or heavy vehicles (like SUVs or trucks) cost more to ship
- Transport type: Enclosed carriers cost more due to limited capacity and premium service
- Pickup and delivery location: Remote or hard-to-access areas add to total cost
- Season and demand: Rates rise during peak season (May-September)
- Vehicle condition: Non-running or modified cars may need special equipment or handling
Use our free car shipping calculator to help estimate the cost of your shipment.
Insurance Coverage Differences: Open vs. Enclosed Transport
Both open and enclosed carriers are required to carry cargo insurance, but coverage limits and claim processes can vary widely. In many cases, enclosed carriers offer higher coverage limits because they often transport higher-value vehicles.
Typical Cargo Insurance Coverage Ranges
While coverage varies by carrier, here are common industry ranges:
| Transport Type | Typical Cargo Coverage Range* | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Open transport | $100,000–$250,000 | Standard sedans, SUVs, trucks |
| Enclosed transport | $250,000–$1,000,000+ | Luxury, exotic, classic, collector vehicles |
*These are typical ranges and not guaranteed.
What “Cargo Insurance” Covers (and What It Doesn’t)
Cargo insurance is the policy carried by the motor carrier transporting your vehicle. It typically covers damage caused during transport, such as accidents, loading/unloading incidents, or carrier negligence.
However, cargo insurance may not cover:
- Pre-existing damage (scratches, dents, chips)
- Damage caused by personal belongings left inside the vehicle
- Mechanical issues unrelated to shipping
- Acts of nature or extreme weather (varies by policy)
Important: Most carriers will not insure personal items inside your car. Keep the vehicle empty except for factory-installed equipment.
Does Your Personal Auto Insurance Cover Shipping?
In some cases, yes, but it depends on your policy. Many comprehensive auto insurance plans cover damage while your car is being transported, but others exclude commercial shipping.
Before booking, call your insurance provider and ask:
- Does my policy cover damage during auto transport?
- Is there a deductible if I file a claim?
- Would the carrier’s insurance pay first?
Even if your policy applies, the carrier’s cargo insurance is usually the first line of coverage for transport-related damage.
How to Verify Insurance Before Pickup
Before your car is loaded, ask the carrier (or broker) for proof of insurance. A reputable company should provide documentation without hesitation.
What to request:
- Certificate of Insurance (COI) showing cargo coverage
- Coverage limit
- Deductible amount
- Policy effective dates to confirm it’s active
Pro tip: If you’re shipping a high-value vehicle, confirm that the coverage limit applies per vehicle, not just per trailer load.
How To Protect Yourself: Pickup and Delivery Checklist
If damage happens, documentation is everything. Most claim disputes come down to whether the damage was clearly recorded at pickup or delivery.
Before pickup:
- Wash your car so scratches and dents are visible
- Take timestamped photos of all sides, wheels, roof, and undercarriage (if possible)
- Photograph the odometer and VIN plate
- Remove valuables, toll tags, and personal items
At pickup:
- Review the bill of lading inspection report carefully
- Make sure all existing damage is marked accurately
- Do not sign until everything is correct
At delivery:
- Inspect the vehicle immediately in good lighting
- Compare the car to your pre-shipping photos
- If you see damage, note it on the bill of lading before signing
- Take new photos and ask the driver to confirm the damage in writing
Never sign delivery paperwork that says “received in good condition” if you notice damage. Signing without notes can make claims much harder.
Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping: Which Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on your car’s value, your budget, and your risk tolerance. Open shipping suits most standard vehicles and budgets, while enclosed shipping is worth the premium for cars that need extra care.
Choose open car shipping if:
- You’re shipping a standard sedan, SUV, or family car
- You want the most affordable option
- You’re shipping a short or moderate distance
- You’re comfortable with some exposure to weather and road dust
- You need flexible scheduling and fast pickup
Choose enclosed car shipping if:
- You’re transporting a high-value or classic vehicle
- You want full protection from weather, dust, and salt
- You’re shipping long-distance or during winter
- You need special handling or added security
Our Recommendations
Below are our top recommendations for the best car shipping companies offering open and enclosed options.
Nexus Auto Transport
|
Sherpa Auto Transport
|
Navi Auto Transport
|
Nexus Auto Transport
Best for: Overall value
Why we recommend Nexus: Their nationwide network and straightforward pricing make them a dependable choice for both open and enclosed moves.
Sherpa Auto Transport
Best for: Transparent pricing
Why we recommend Sherpa: Their Price Lock Promise ensures your rate won’t change after booking.
Navi Auto Transport
Best for: Affordability
Why we recommend Navi: They offer excellent flexibility for both open and enclosed moves, making them a great fit for specialty or modified cars.
FAQ
Is open car shipping safe for long distances?
Yes, open car shipping is the most common method used by dealerships and individuals. While the car is exposed to the elements, serious damage is rather rare, and most carriers carry full insurance coverage.
It’s a reliable option for everyday cars where budget and convenience are more important than full coverage.
Does enclosed shipping completely prevent damage?
Enclosed trailers drastically reduce the risk of damage from debris, weather, and handling, but no transport method is 100% damage-proof. Still, enclosed carriers provide peace of mind for valuable vehicles.
Inspect your vehicle at pickup and delivery and document its condition for your insurance records.
Which is faster: open or enclosed shipping?
Open shipping is generally faster because more carriers are available, and routes are more frequent. Enclosed shipping can take a few extra days due to fewer trucks and higher demand for specialized service.
If timing is tight, open transport usually offers quicker pickup and delivery windows.
How much more expensive is enclosed shipping?
Enclosed shipping typically costs 30%–60% more than open transport, depending on distance, vehicle type, and demand. For example, a 500-mile trip might cost $650 open versus $1,000 enclosed.
Should I use enclosed shipping for my electric car?
For high-end EVs like Teslas or Rivians, enclosed shipping provides extra protection against weather and road debris that could impact paint or sensors. It’s a smart choice for long-distance moves or harsh climates.
For shorter distances and mild weather, open transport is fine as long as the carrier is reputable and insured.
Can I ship personal items in the car?
Usually, no. Most car shipping carriers do not allow personal items because household goods are not covered under cargo insurance and can create weight or safety issues during transport.
If a carrier does allow it, items are typically limited to under 100 pounds and must be stored below window level. Always confirm the carrier’s policy in writing before loading anything in your vehicle.
What’s the difference between a broker vs. a carrier?
A broker arranges your shipment by matching you with a licensed auto transport carrier. Brokers do not own the trucks, but they manage scheduling, pricing, and customer support.
A carrier is the company that owns the truck and physically transports your vehicle. Most customers book through brokers because they provide access to a larger network of carriers and more availability.
Does open shipping damage paint?
Open transport is generally safe and rarely causes serious damage, but your vehicle is exposed to weather, road debris, dust, and bugs during transit. This can lead to minor cosmetic issues like dirt buildup or small chips in rare cases.
If your vehicle has fresh paint, a high-end finish, or you’re shipping a collector car, enclosed transport is usually the safer choice for maximum protection.
