When people start looking into car shipping, one of the first decisions they face is choosing between open and enclosed transport. Each option works, but they are different in terms of price, availability, and protection. Picking the right one depends on your type of vehicle, your budget, and how much security you want during the trip.
Door-to-door vs terminal car shipping
Along with trailer type, customers also choose between door-to-door vs terminal car shipping. Door-to-door is the most convenient, since the driver comes to your home or as close as possible. In some cases, wide trailers cannot reach smaller streets, so the driver may ask to meet in a nearby open area. Terminal shipping means dropping off and picking up your car at a storage yard or hub. This option can be cheaper but requires extra effort. For many people, the balance comes down to how much they value convenience compared to cost.
Open auto transport
Open auto transport is by far the most common option. It uses two-level trailers that can haul several cars at once. Because these carriers are always on the road, finding one is usually quick. The cost is lower compared to enclosed shipping, making it a popular choice for sedans, SUVs, and trucks used daily.
One thing to know is that your car is exposed during the trip. It may arrive dusty or with traces of weather from the road. This does not usually mean damage, but the exposure is part of the tradeoff. Many customers accept this because the lower price makes sense for everyday cars. For haulers, open auto transport is the backbone of the business.
Since open carriers are so common, they offer faster pickup windows. Customers working on short schedules often choose this service because it is easier to arrange. The efficiency and availability make open auto transport the default option for most moves.
Enclosed auto transport
Enclosed auto transport offers a higher level of protection. Cars are loaded into covered trailers that block out rain, snow, and road debris. This is the option chosen for classic cars, luxury vehicles, or anything requiring special care. Enclosed trailers carry fewer cars, and drivers tend to be more specialized in handling valuable vehicles.
Because of the limited space and higher costs of running enclosed trailers, the price is higher. Customers often pay several hundred dollars more compared to open transport. For many, this premium is worth it when the goal is to keep a prized vehicle in perfect condition. Enclosed auto transport is about peace of mind as much as protection.
Since there are fewer enclosed trailers on the road, scheduling can take more time. Booking early is often necessary. Even so, many owners prefer this service when protection matters more than cost or speed of scheduling. The assurance of a fully protected trip makes enclosed auto transport the right fit for these cases.
FAQ
What are the pros and cons of open vs enclosed transport?
Open carriers are less expensive, widely available, and faster to schedule. The tradeoff is exposure to weather and road dust. Enclosed carriers provide full protection, more personalized handling, and extra security. The drawback is higher cost and sometimes longer wait times for scheduling. In short, open is best for most cars when budget is the main concern, while enclosed is suited for vehicles where condition and protection matter most.
For details on pricing, you can visit this page about car shipping costs. If you want to know what steps to take before scheduling your shipment, see this guide on how to ship a car. Both resources can help you prepare for whichever transport type you decide is best.
In the end, the choice between open and enclosed transport depends on your car and your priorities. Open carriers serve as the main option for most moves, while enclosed carriers provide the security needed for rare or valuable vehicles. Either way, both options are reliable when arranged with an experienced hauler.