When it comes to shipping your car, it all boils down to two main things: How much protection does your vehicle need? and What’s your budget?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key differences between open and enclosed transport so you can make the best choice — both for your car and your wallet.
Key Takeaways
- Open transport is the most popular and budget-friendly option. It’s great for everyday cars, but just keep in mind that your vehicle will be exposed to the elements and road debris along the way.
- Enclosed transport offers full protection from weather, dust, and potential damage. It’s the go-to choice for luxury, classic, or high-value cars, though it comes at a higher price.
- Think about how much your car is worth, how much protection it really needs, and what your insurance covers. This will help you make the right choice for your situation.
Understanding Open Car Shipping
How it works:
With open transport, your vehicle travels on a trailer without sides or a roof — it’s out in the open and exposed to the weather and road conditions.
Why people choose it:
- It’s the most common car shipping methods and for good reason.
- It’s budget-friendly, thanks to lower operating costs.
- Transporters can move several cars at once, so you save more.
- It’s quicker to schedule and more widely available than enclosed transport.
What to consider:
- Your car will face the elements — rain, sun, snow, and even a bit of road dust.
- There’s a slightly higher risk of minor cosmetic wear.
- Not the best option for luxury, vintage, or collector cars that need extra care.
Best for:
- Everyday vehicles.
- Anyone looking for the most affordable option.
- Those who want faster delivery.
Open car transport is a great balance between cost and convenience. If your vehicle doesn’t need VIP treatment, this option gets the job done efficiently — and economically.
Understanding Enclosed Car Shipping
- How it works:
Vehicles are transported inside enclosed trailers, fully shielded from the outside world. - Why it’s preferred:
- Maximum protection from weather (rain, snow, sun) and road debris.
- Ideal for high-value, classic, collector, or exotic vehicles.
- Often includes climate control to preserve vehicle condition.
- Handled by experienced drivers with specialized care.
- The trade-offs:
- Higher cost compared to open shipping.
- Fewer available carriers, which may affect scheduling.
- Not always necessary for standard vehicles.
- Best for:
- Luxury, classic, or antique cars.
- Owners who prioritize condition and security.
- Long-distance or cross-country hauls where environmental exposure is a concern.
Enclosed car shipping delivers premium peace of mind—because some cars deserve the red carpet treatment, even on the road.
Cost Comparison: Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping
When it comes to price, open car transport is usually the more budget-friendly choice. Why? Because these trailers can haul more vehicles at once, which spreads out the cost and keeps rates lower.
Open carriers also tend to use less fuel and are easier to schedule, making them the go-to option for most people looking for value and convenience.
Enclosed car shipping does come at a higher price, but you’re paying for that extra level of protection. It’s perfect for high-end, classic, or luxury cars that need a bit more care during transport. On average, you can expect to pay about 50% more for the added peace of mind that comes with enclosed transport.
So, how do the actual numbers stack up? Let’s break down the average cost based on distance and see how open and enclosed shipping compare side by side.
Average Car Shipping Cost Per Distance
| Trip Distance | Estimated Cost Range | Cost Per Mile | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Trips (Under 500 miles) | $500 – $1,800 | $1.00 – $1.96 per mile | Higher cost per mile due to shorter distance and minimum handling fees. |
| Medium Trips (500–1,500 miles) | $760 – $1,472 | ~$0.50 – $1.00 per mile | Common for interstate moves; more balanced cost per mile. |
| Long Trips (Over 1,500 miles) | $1,100 – $3,100 | ~$0.40 – $0.75 per mile | Lower cost per mile, but higher total due to distance. |
Open vs. Enclosed Transport Costs (1,504 miles)
| Transport Type | Cost Range | Average Cost | Average Cost Per Mile | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open Transport | $1,110 – $1,885 | ~$1,472 | ~$0.98 per mile | Most economical; ideal for standard vehicles. |
| Enclosed Transport | $1,414 – $2,085 | ~$1,800 | ~$1.20 per mile | Higher cost for added protection; best for luxury or classic cars. |
Protection Levels: Open vs Enclosed Transport
- Enclosed Car Shipping:
- Provides enhanced security and protection from environmental factors.
- Ideal for high-value vehicles, classic cars, and exotic cars.
- Available in softside and hardside trailers.
- Often equipped with climate control features for sensitive vehicles.
- Open Car Shipping:
- Exposes vehicles to weather conditions and road debris.
- Higher risk of minor damage due to environmental exposure.
- More cost-effective, but offers less protection compared to enclosed shipping.
Vehicle Types Suitable for Each Method
- Enclosed Shipping:
- Preferred for rare or high-value vehicles.
- Ideal for car collectors and restored classic cars to maintain top condition.
- Common choice for exotic cars due to their high value and delicate nature.
- Can handle low clearance vehicles (as low as 1′′), ensuring protection for even the most delicate cars.
- Open Shipping:
- Best for standard cars, such as sedans and SUVs.
- More economical, making it a popular choice for everyday vehicles.
- Commonly used for larger vehicles that don’t require extra protection.
- Suitable for vehicles not particularly susceptible to damage.
Availability and Flexibility
- Open Car Shipping:
- More widely accessible and easier to arrange.
- Higher carrier availability offers more flexibility in scheduling.
- Practical choice during peak seasons with high demand.
- Open carriers can accommodate more vehicles, allowing for better availability.
- Enclosed Car Shipping:
- Accommodates fewer vehicles (typically 3 to 5 cars).
- Limited capacity means advance booking is often necessary.
- Best to book early if shipping a high-value vehicle for added protection.
Speed and Efficiency of Delivery
| Factor | Open Car Transport | Enclosed Car Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Speed and Efficiency | Fastest method for shipping a vehicle. | Slower compared to open transport. |
| Carrier Availability | Higher availability, accommodates 8-10 vehicles. | Lower availability, limited carriers. |
| Delivery Time | Up to 17 days. | Up to 25 days due to limited carriers. |
| Protection Against Delays | Less protection from weather-related delays. | Better protection from weather-related delays. |
| Best for | Quick shipments and general vehicles. | High-value vehicles that require extra protection. |
Insurance Coverage
Insurance plays an important role in the car shipping process with open and enclosed transport having different insurance coverage standards. [source]
- Open Car Shipping:
- Cargo insurance ranges between from $100,000 to $150,000.
- This is perfect for standard every day vehicles, but may not cover high-value cars completely.
- Enclosed Car Shipping:
- Cargo insurance usually ranges between $250,000 to $3,000,000.
- This is specifically for high-value, classic, or exotic vehicles that requiring extra protection and more care.
- Why the Variation in Coverage?
- Open Car Shipping:
- Vehicles are exposed to more risks (e.g., weather, road debris).
- Lower insurance coverage due to higher potential risks.
- Enclosed Car Shipping:
- Provides complete protection from external elements.
- Lower risk during transport justifies higher insurance coverage.
- Open Car Shipping:
Customer Experiences
- Classic Car Owners:
- A lot of classic car owners prefer enclosed car shipping as it provides protection for their special vehicles during transport.
- For example, one of our ShipYourCarNow customers shared how their prized 1966 Cadillac DeVille arrived in pristine condition thanks to the added protection of enclosed transport.
- What the customer said:
- “The agent who arranged my transport was not only professional, but also courteous, timely, and very informative. The company made sure to update me every step of the way, ensuring I was never left in the dark. The driver was extremely professional as well, even turning down a tip for such excellent service.” – James Brown. [source]
- Standard Sedan Shipping:
- A customer of ShipYourCarNow needed to ship their standard sedan across the country and opted for open car transport due to its affordability and convenience.
- They had a few concerns about their care being exposed to weather and road debris, but the vehicle arrived without any issues.
- This experience showcases why open car shipping is a popular and reliable choice for many standard vehicles.
- What the customer said:
- “I realized shipping the vehicle was much cheaper when factoring in the costs of gas, time away from work, rental cars, and hotels. I’m so glad I chose shipping over driving!” – Stephanie J. [source]
- Sentimental Vehicle Transport:
- One of our ShipYourCarNow customers shared how shipping their Harley-Davidson was not only affordable but also incredibly emotional for them. This bike has so much sentimental value as it was his father’s.
- Carrie Hood, the agent the customer worked with, went above and beyond, ensuring the process was smooth.
- The drivers provided excellent service, taking extra care with the Harley during transport.
- Customer Testimonial:
- “I never thought getting my Harley shipped would be this easy and affordable. Carrie made sure to let me know how much she understood the sentimental value of my bike. She truly took personal care in the process.” – Craig Raymond. [source]
These stories really show how important it is to choose the right kind of transport based on your vehicle, how much protection it needs, and what matters most to you.
Whether you’re shipping a high-value collector’s car, your everyday sedan, or even a motorcycle with sentimental value, the process can be smooth, affordable, and customized to fit your needs.
Our team is here to help every step of the way, making sure your vehicle gets where it needs to go, safely and in great shape.
Auto Transport: Several Factors For You To Consider
Before you hand over your keys, there are a few important things to think about when choosing how to ship your vehicle.
- First, consider your car’s value and what kind of insurance coverage makes sense.
- If you’re transporting a high-end, classic, or exotic vehicle, enclosed transport is usually the safest bet, offering added protection from weather and road debris.
- For everyday vehicles like sedans, SUVs, and minivans, open transport is a great, cost-effective option. It’s the most common choice and works well for standard cars.
- No matter what transport option you choose, having the right insurance coverage brings peace of mind, especially if your vehicle is worth a lot.
Understanding the difference between open and enclosed shipping helps you make a smart decision that fits your needs and your budget. And when you want things to go smoothly, it helps to talk to the pros.
Summary
Choosing the right way to ship your car really comes down to a few key things: how much your vehicle is worth, how much protection it needs, and what works for your budget.
If you’re shipping a standard car, an open carrier is a great choice. It’s affordable, easy to book, and widely available.
If you’ve got a high-end, classic, or exotic vehicle that needs a little more care, an enclosed carrier offers the added protection and peace of mind that’s worth the extra cost.
Whether you’re moving a few hours away or sending your car across the country, ShipYourCarNow makes the transport process simple.
Reach out to our experienced team today and let’s talk about the best way to ship a car from point A to point B — safely, smoothly, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between open and enclosed car shipping?
The main difference is that open auto transport leaves your vehicle more exposed to the elements, while enclosed closed transport wraps it up for better protection from weather and debris.
How much more expensive is enclosed car shipping compared to open car shipping?
Enclosed car shipping generally runs about 50% more than open car shipping because it provides extra protection for your vehicle. If you’re looking for peace of mind, the added cost might be worth it! Get an instant quote here.
Which vehicles are best suited for open car shipping?
Sedans, SUVs, and minivans are the best bets for open car shipping since they’re practical and easy on the wallet.
What kind of insurance coverage is provided for open car shipping?
Open car shipping usually comes with a minimum insurance coverage of $100,000, which is fine for most cars but might not be enough for high-value ones. If you have a luxury vehicle, consider discussing extra coverage options!
Why do classic car owners prefer enclosed car shipping?
Classic car owners go for enclosed car shipping because it keeps their precious rides safe from weather and debris. Car shipping experts will advise that this is the best way to protect your investment!
Senior automotive logistics professional with a passion for the industry and a 10+ year history of accomplishments. Proven track record of exemplary client management working with both RMCs, Van Lines and OEMs. Keen ability to react to an ever-changing marketplace while offering superior technology solutions, programs and services. Architect of award winning auto transport portal technology offering transparency and agility to clients, agents and transferees. Successful team builder and leader easily managing budgets with effective leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving capabilities.