CAR SHIPPING GUIDE
Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping: Which Should You Choose?
The two main ways to ship a car compared side by side: cost, protection, availability and which vehicles each option suits best.
The short answer
Choose open transport for everyday cars, SUVs and pickups when you want the best price and fastest pickup. Choose enclosed transport for exotic, luxury, classic, collector or low-clearance cars, or whenever full protection from weather and road debris matters more than price.
Side-by-side comparison
| Open transport | Enclosed transport | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price | Lower | Usually 40–60% more |
| Protection | Exposed to weather and road dust | Fully covered trailer |
| Carrier availability | Very high, faster pickups | Fewer trucks, may need more lead time |
| Loading | Standard ramps | Often liftgate or low-angle ramps |
| Cars per truck | Usually 7–10 | Usually 1–7 |
| Best for | Daily drivers, SUVs, pickups, used and new cars | Exotic, luxury, classic, collector, show and low-clearance cars |
Open car transport
Open carriers are the familiar two-level trucks that deliver new cars to dealerships. They make up most of the trucks on the road, so pickups are easier to schedule and prices are lower. Your car is exposed to the weather, just as it would be if you drove it, but it is not putting on miles. For most vehicles, open transport is the sensible choice. Learn more about open car transport.
Enclosed car transport
Enclosed trailers have solid walls and a roof, so the car is protected from rain, snow, salt, sun and stones kicked up by other vehicles. Many enclosed carriers use hydraulic liftgates for low cars and soft straps instead of chains. Fewer enclosed trucks are on the road, so plan a little more lead time. Learn more about enclosed auto transport.
Price examples
On the busy Florida to New York route, open transport for a standard sedan typically runs $850–$1,300 and enclosed transport $1,300–$1,900. Coast to coast from California to Florida, open transport typically runs $1,300–$1,900 and enclosed $1,900–$2,800. Your exact price is confirmed in a written quote. See our car shipping cost guide.
When enclosed is worth it
- Your car is worth well over $75,000 or is rare or hard to replace.
- It is a classic with original paint or chrome. See classic car shipping.
- It sits very low or has aero parts. See exotic car transport.
- It is going to a show, auction or new owner and must arrive spotless.
- It is traveling through snow and salted roads in winter.
FAQ
Is open car shipping safe?
Yes. Millions of cars, including brand-new vehicles, are shipped on open carriers every year. Minor dust and dirt are the most common issues.
Does enclosed transport take longer?
Transit time is similar, but pickup may take a little longer to schedule because fewer enclosed trucks are available.
Not sure which to choose?
Tell us about your car and route and we will recommend the right option. Request your free quote, call (646) 295-6730 or message us on WhatsApp.