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Whether for work, a seasonal change, or just making a big life move, transporting your car is a difficult task and usually just adds to the complicated experience of relocating. The idea of driving hundreds of miles to your new destination, rising fuel costs, and the thought of putting unnecessary mileage and wear and tear on your vehicle add to the overall stress of the move.

Transportation is not only an amenity but a necessity in a globalized world, making it essential to choose the right method for getting your car to your new destination for a safe, affordable, and seamless experience.

At Preowned Auto Logistics (PAL), we understand and embrace the complexities of moving your car. We will help simplify the vehicle transportation process in all forms. Our experience with both open and enclosed auto transport methods uniquely qualifies us to help you find the right solution based on your individual needs.

Table of Contents

What is Open Car Transport?

Open car transport is by far the most common and recognizable method of vehicle shipping. When you choose open transport, your vehicle will be loaded onto a multiple-vehicle carrier, which is usually a long open trailer carrying anywhere from 2-10 vehicles at a time. The trailers are the ones you see on the highways all of the time and are commonly double-deckers.

How it works, and when to use it?

Professionals drive your vehicle onto the trailer and strap it down to prevent any movement during transport. Open carriers work hard and continuously travel the major routes across the country. The open transport method is used for the vast majority of standard cars, SUVs, and trucks, whether they are being relocated for a residential move, purchased from an out-of-state dealership, or transported from one family member to another. The efficiency and sheer number of vehicles an open carrier can carry make it a good and versatile method for everyday needs of vehicle transport.

Pros of using open transport:

Cost-effective: Open transport is the most common method of car transport and, therefore, is much less expensive than enclosed shipping. Carriers can load many vehicles or multiple vehicles, which share the fuel and labor costs among multiple shipments. Therefore, costs are lower for each individual customer.
Easier to Find: Because of the high number of open carriers on the road, it is usually easier and faster to find available transport, even on less popular lanes.

Prompt scheduling: Because of the availability and often frequent lanes, open transport can lead to rapid scheduling and pickup and delivery times, allowing you to reduce wait times.

Cons of using open transport

Exposed to elements: Open carrier transport leaves your vehicle exposed to weather elements like rain, snow, dust, sunlight, and tar and grime on the road. Although not likely to incur significant damage, your vehicle may need a thorough cleaning upon arrival.
Less safe: There is no doubt that vehicles are safely secured while on the carrier, but they are exposed to debris on the road, and some cars’ fluids (although rare) can cause minor nicks to the paint while on the road. Plus, your vehicle is visible to others, so it is subject to prying eyes.

What Is Enclosed Car Transport?

Enclosed car transport is safer than open trailers because your vehicle will be completely protected inside a covered trailer. There are two types of enclosed trailers: soft-sided (which use a very durable version of canvas) and hard-sided (like you would see with a freight trailer), and they create a complete enclosure from the outside world. They carry a few vehicles at a time, usually 1-3 cars and sometimes just one.

When to use enclosed car transport

Enclosed transport is ideal for transporting vehicles where maximum protection is important. These vehicles include:

Luxury and exotic cars: Very high-value cars, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Porsches, high-end Mercedes, and BMWs.
Antique and classic vehicles: Priceless vintage vehicles that need maximum care to ensure preservation in original condition.
Custom builds and show cars: Modified vehicles, prototypes, or cars going to exhibitions that need to arrive fresh and intact.
Low ground clearance vehicles: Sports or modified vehicles that are very low to the ground and may need additional ramps or liftgates that an enclosed trailer can provide to prevent scraping.

Pros of the enclosed shipping

Safety: Enclosed transport means your vehicle is completely protected from the elements (Including weather, dirt, debris, etc.) and the unwanted eyes of onlookers.
Security: It is easier to secure a vehicle when it is enclosed. Others cannot see it, and it is less accessible for theft or vandalism.

Specialized equipment: Many enclosed carriers come with hydraulic liftgates, custom ramps, and other specialized equipment to help load and unload vehicles safely (especially for anything that cannot be driven).
Peace of mind: If it is a high-value vehicle or a vehicle that has sentimental value, this is a great option for the utmost peace of mind that your vehicle is safe.

Cons of enclosed transport

Increased cost: Enclosed transport can be more expensive, often 30-50% more, and in some cases double the cost of open transport because the equipment is specialized, the total load per trailer is less, and the demand is usually for a more tailored service.
Limited availability: An open transport carrier can find a truck more readily because there are more available trucks on the road, and in fewer instances, this limited availability results in scheduling delays due to the less-traveled roads.
Longer transit times: Aside from the driving speed being similar, the specialized transport’s lack of availability often leads to transit delays as they have to combine fewer, more specific routes.

Key Differences between Open and Enclosed Transport

Knowing the basic differences between these two main car shipping methods is important for making an informed choice that fits your particular interests.

Feature	Open Car Transport	Enclosed Car Transport
Cost	Premium pricing: substantially higher rates.	The vehicle is visible and more accessible.
Vehicle Protection	Exposed to weather, dust, and road debris.	Fully shielded from all external elements; maximum protection.
Availability & Scheduling	Widely available; easier and quicker scheduling.	Limited availability; may require longer wait times.
Security	Vehicle visible and more accessible.	Vehicle fully secured and out of sight; enhanced security.
Ideal for	Standard cars, SUVs, trucks; common relocations.	Luxury, classic, exotic, custom, or high-value vehicles.

Transit Time

Often quicker to dispatch; routes are more frequent.

Can have slightly longer overall transit due to fewer direct routes.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing the best option between open and enclosed transport involves a lot of factors, including car type, your budget, and priorities. There is no “best,” only what is the best fit for you.

#1. Consider your vehicle

For standard sedans, SUVs, minivans, or trucks: If you have a regular vehicle (not a collectible) and you’re looking to save some money, open transport is the best and least expensive option. Plus, it is safe, reliable, and a great option for most vehicles. For vehicles with high monetary significance or sentimental value, or custom modifications, it is highly recommended that you choose enclosed transport.

#2. Consider your budget & timing

If cost is your primary consideration, and your vehicle is a standard car, your best option is definitely open transport. If the peace of mind of your more expensive or personal assets makes up for the additional investment for extra protection, enclosed transport is the answer!

#3. Check your shipping distance

With very short, local moves, the price for closed transport might not be worth it. Conversely, for successive cross-country moves of a vehicle through varied climates, each with its own road hazards, the additional protection for a high-value vehicle becomes essential.

#4. Assess your vehicle’s value (emotional and market)

This is not simply about the market value of your vehicle; now, consider the emotional value. Is it a family heirloom? Is it a fully restored classic? If you think any exposure is worrisome, it is worth considering that the peace of mind of enclosed transport is invaluable.

How Preowned Auto Logistics Supports Your Choice

At Preowned Auto Logistics, we don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach. We will give you the information and options needed to make the right choice for your vehicle. Here’s how:

Personalized consultation: Our experienced transport specialists are here to discuss your needs, evaluate the type and value of your vehicle, understand your budget, and help you decide between the advantages and disadvantages of open and enclosed transport. We offer impartial advice for your situation.
Nationwide open/enclosed carrier network: We have an extensive, pre-approved network of open and enclosed carriers throughout the country. This allows us to find reliable transport options for virtually any route and vehicle type and the best options for you at competitive prices.
Real-life customer experience: We can provide examples from the long and countless past shipments completed and how customers have made similar educated preferences to meet their own needs when moving similar vehicles in similar relocation situations.
Transparent pricing and insured service: PAL offers a custom quote that is always complete and all-inclusive, leaving no surprises and extra costs. Plus, every shipment is insured with our vetted carriers, from pickup to delivery. When we say we offer reliable service, we mean we offer safe, trackable, and timely transport.

Tips for a Successful Shipping Experience

No matter if you are transporting your vehicle with an open carrier or an enclosed carrier, there are a few vital things you can do that help a lot to contribute to a successful and seamless car relocation experience.

Book early: When you book early, you give yourself the best chance of obtaining your preferred dates, the best price, and the type of carrier option you want. Demand is higher in peak moving months (summer, holidays), and it may result in higher prices or longer delays.

Clearly communicate your needs: Be upfront about your specific needs. If an enclosed carrier is crucial (high-value vehicle, modifications), make sure you clearly state that from the very beginning. Special handling instructions should be communicated well in advance.

Preparing your vehicle correctly for either method:

Remove all personal items: Remove all of your belongings from the car, especially anything valuable (do not leave any part of household goods in the vehicle). The carriers usually are not licensed to transport those items, and they will only cover the car under their insurance.
Document their condition: Prior to pick up, take timed pictures or video of the vehicle from every angle (exterior and interior). You should video or take pictures of the tires as well as the odometer. Document and note all previous damage or things like scratches and dents on the Bill of Lading (BOL) at pickup. The Bill of Lading (BOL) is for any damage-related claims.
Fluid levels: You should have approximately 1/4 tank of fuel (but do not exceed 1/4 tank) in your vehicle for safe loading and unloading. Check the other fluid levels (oil, coolant, etc.).

Alarms: Advise the driver if you have an alarm or procedure for shutting down your alarm.
Keys: Provide the transporter with all of the necessary keys.

Ask questions about insurance and inspection at pick-up/delivery

Feel free to ask the driver or reach out to our support team regarding the insurance coverage. The transporter will allow you to check the BOL document at pick-up. Take your time to check that everything is complete and correct. At the time of delivery, inspect your vehicle fully before you sign the document and note any new damage immediately.