Every year, millions of Americans rely on auto transport services, whether they’re moving across the country, buying a vehicle online, or sending a car to a family member. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting between open vs. enclosed auto transport, two methods that differ in cost, protection, and availability.
While both options are reliable, each has its own advantages depending on your vehicle type, budget, and the level of protection you’re after. Open car shipping is the most common and cost-effective method. It’s often the go-to for everyday vehicles due to its affordability, availability, and faster turnaround times.
On the flip side, enclosed car shipping offers maximum protection, making it ideal for high-value, classic, or exotic vehicles where extra care is a must. Below, we break down each option so you can confidently choose what best fits your vehicle and your budget.
Key Takeaways:
- Enclosed and open car shipping are the two primary trailer types used in auto shipping.
- Open car shipping is the most common and cost-effective option, chosen by the majority of customers because of its speed and availability.
- Enclosed transport offers maximum protection and is ideal for luxury, classic, and specialty vehicles that require extra care.
- Your choice depends on your vehicle’s value, your budget, and how much protection you want during transit.
In This Guide:
- Auto Transport Options: Open Vs. Enclosed Car Transport
- Open Car Shipping: Pros and Cons
- Enclosed Car Shipping: Pros and Cons
- How to Decide Between Open and Enclosed Car Shipping
- What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company
- Why You Should Choose Sherpa Auto Transport
- Open Vs. Enclosed Car Shipping FAQs
Auto Transport Options: Open Vs. Enclosed Car Transport
When shipping a vehicle, understanding the differences between open vs. enclosed auto transport helps you choose the right level of protection.
What Is Open Car Shipping?
Open car shipping uses an open-air trailer (typically the two-level carriers commonly seen on highways) to transport vehicles. Cars are secured but exposed to rain, dust, and road conditions. Since these carriers can haul more vehicles at once, they offer lower prices and faster scheduling.
What Is Enclosed Car Shipping?
Enclosed car shipping uses a fully covered trailer to shield the vehicle from weather, debris, and outside exposure. This is the premium option for customers transporting luxury, exotic, antique, or collector cars that require maximum protection and careful handling.
Types of Enclosed Trailers
There are two types of enclosed trailers: softside and hardside.
- Soft-Sided Enclosed Trailers: Use durable canvas-like material that shields vehicles while allowing easier loading.
- Hard-Sided Enclosed Trailers: Provide full rigid protection with insulated walls, ideal for high-value vehicles or show cars.
Enclosed carriers can accommodate fewer vehicles, making this option more expensive and less readily available than open transport. In addition, fewer carriers with enclosed trailers and fewer spots in each enclosed trailer can extend your transit time or make it harder to schedule.
Choosing between open and. enclosed auto transport ultimately depends on your vehicle type, budget, and how much protection you desire during transport. Whether you’re shipping a daily driver or a rare collector’s car, understanding these basics will help you select the best option.
Open Car Shipping: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Budget-friendly compared to enclosed car shipping.
- Wider Availability: More carriers offer open trailers, making scheduling easier.
- Efficient Transport: Can haul multiple vehicles at once, helping reduce wait times.
Cons
- Exposure to Elements: Vehicles are exposed to weather, dust, and possible minor debris.
- Limited Protection: May not be ideal for high-end or collector vehicles.
Enclosed Car Shipping: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Maximum Protection: Shields your vehicle from road debris, weather, and dust.
- Ideal for High-Value Vehicles: Offers peace of mind when transporting rare, luxury, or classic cars.
Cons
- Higher Cost: Typically at least 50% more than open transport.
- Limited Availability: Fewer enclosed carriers mean scheduling may take longer.
How to Decide Between Open and Enclosed Car Shipping
Selecting the right method between open and enclosed auto transport comes down to weighing value, protection, and cost.
Choose open transport if:
- You’re shipping a standard daily driver.
- You want the fastest and most affordable option.
- Minor exposure to elements doesn’t concern you.
Choose enclosed transport if:
- Your car is a high-value vehicle, classic, exotic, restored, or especially valuable.
- You want maximum protection and controlled handling.
- You’re comfortable with a higher price for added security.
If you are unsure, consider your vehicle’s condition, cost to repair potential cosmetic damage, and your comfort level. When in doubt, ask your shipping specialist for guidance.
What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company
Not all car shipping companies are created equal—and when you’re trusting someone with your vehicle, you want to get it right the first time. Whether you’re going with open or enclosed car shipping, here are the key things to look for before booking:
Upfront, Honest Pricing
No one likes surprise fees. A trustworthy auto transport company should provide a clear, fixed quote from the start. If a carrier can’t give you a solid number upfront, it’s a red flag, move on.
Proven Track Record
Experience matters. Choose a company that has successfully shipped all kinds of vehicles, from daily drivers to classic collectibles across the country. For example, Sherpa Auto Transport handles cars, SUVs, motorcycles, vans, and pickups in all 50 states.
Real Customer Reviews
What do past customers have to say? Look for companies that consistently earn praise for affordability, timeliness, and top-notch service. A strong reputation is usually a good indicator of a smooth experience.
Strong Safety Standards
Your vehicle’s safety should be the company’s top priority. Look for a provider that carefully vets its carriers and maintains strict safety standards throughout the transport process.
Why You Should Choose Sherpa Auto Transport
Sherpa Auto Transport delivers dependable service backed by an A+ BBB rating, thousands of 5-star customer reviews, and strict carrier standards. With Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise, the price you’re quoted is the price you pay, no surprises. Sherpa always connects you with top-rated carriers for both open and enclosed transport, ensuring your vehicle is handled safely and professionally from pickup to delivery.
Open Vs. Enclosed Car Shipping FAQs
Can road debris damage cars on an open auto trailer?
Yes, minor exposure to road dust or small debris is possible on an open trailer. While significant damage is rare, enclosed transport eliminates this risk entirely.
Can cars get dirty if transported on open auto transport?
Yes. Because open carriers are exposed to the environment, vehicles can arrive dusty or dirty. This is normal and usually resolves with a standard car wash.
How long does it take to ship a car depending on transit type?
Transit times depend on distance and carrier availability. Open transport is typically faster due to higher availability of trucks. Enclosed transport may take longer to schedule because fewer trailers operate nationwide.
