Enclosed vs. Open Auto Shipping: What to Choose

The following is a detailed outline of both methods to enable you to choose one that suits your preferences.

When shipping a vehicle, you can choose an enclosed and open carrier. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into before deciding on a shipping method. The following is a detailed outline of both methods to enable you to choose one that suits your preferences.

Enclosed Auto Shipping Carrier

Enclosed auto shipping is when your vehicle is transported in a climate-controlled trailer and protected from weather elements. It’s the best way to ship your car, SUV, or truck because it includes a full vehicle wrap and straps to secure your vehicle. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about any damage that could occur when different services, such as Florida to New York auto transport.

The main challenge with enclosed carriers is the price involved. The auto shipping method offers more safety for the vehicle. Therefore, an individual pays more than other methods. The enclosed carrier can only carry a few cars at a time. Hence, it might not be your ideal option if you plan to ship more vehicles at a time.

Open Auto Shipping Carrier

Open auto shipping is when your car travels on an open carrier with other vehicles and is exposed to weather elements. Open auto shipping is usually the cheapest option but also the riskiest. You should expect your vehicle to have some damage from exposure to weather elements during transport.

Open auto shipping allows you to transport multiple cars at a time; hence, the reason it’s cheaper than closed auto shipping. Open auto shipping is usually for short distances, so you shouldn’t have to worry about your car being damaged too badly in transit.

The carrier will load your car with other vehicles and ship them to their destination. Open auto shipping is done by large companies that specialize in transporting motor vehicles, so you can expect a high-quality job.

If you plan on open auto shipping, ensure your vehicle is covered with a waterproof tarp or bubble wrap before it’s loaded onto the truck. Covering it will reduce the extent of damage by various weather elements.

What to Choose

With so many options available today, deciding which service is right for you can be difficult. Enclosed auto shipping carriers are designed specifically for transporting vehicles and offer several advantages over other types of shipping methods. This type of auto transportation is ideal for long-distance travel but can also be used for local deliveries.

Open auto shipping could be a good option if multiple vehicles need to be shipped. However, if your car is valuable or has sentimental value, avoid open auto shipping because it can result in damage during transport. However, auto shipping companies ensure quality services, minimizing damage as much as possible.

When choosing a shipping method, it’s important to make various considerations. They will help you choose a method that suits your budget and other preferences. What matters most is having your vehicle delivered to the required destination as planned.

Robert Cooke
Rob is a certified mechanic and long-time automotive enthusiast who has worked on everyday passenger vehicles, race and rally cars, and derby cars.