When it comes to shipping a vehicle, particularly one of high value or sentimental importance, you may be considering the option of enclosed car transport.
This service promises an extra layer of protection for your car while it travels long distances. However, like any service, it comes with its pros and cons.
In this article, we will dive into 7 reasons why you might want to avoid enclosed car transport, and 7 reasons why you might end up burning your money with it.
Summary
Table of Contents
7 Reasons Not to Use Enclosed Car Transport
1. Higher Costs
One of the main drawbacks of enclosed car transport is the significantly higher cost compared to open car transport.
Generally, enclosed transport can be anywhere from 30% to 100% more expensive than the open option.
The reason for this price difference is simple: the added protection, specialized services, and smaller number of available trucks make it a premium option.
For most regular cars, this extra protection may not be necessary, meaning you’re paying for something that doesn’t provide significant added value.
If your vehicle isn’t of high value or doesn’t require extra protection, spending extra on this service could be seen as an unnecessary expense.
2. Longer Waiting Times
Due to the high demand for enclosed car transport, particularly for luxury cars, classic cars, or high-value vehicles, wait times for booking and shipping can often be longer.
Many enclosed transporters operate with a smaller fleet of trucks compared to open transporters, meaning that they might not have immediate availability for your vehicle.
You may end up waiting weeks for a suitable truck to be available, leading to potential delays in your plans.
This can be especially inconvenient for time-sensitive shipments, such as moving to a new location or purchasing a car that needs immediate transportation.
3. Not Necessary for Regular Cars
For standard or less valuable vehicles, enclosed car transport might be excessive.
Most cars on the road today are designed to handle some exposure to the elements and road debris.
Therefore, if your vehicle is not a luxury model or a classic car, opting for the additional protection of enclosed transport could be an unnecessary over-spend.
Open car transport provides a much more affordable solution while still keeping your vehicle safe for the journey.
Most car manufacturers design their vehicles to withstand the rigors of open transport, making it a perfectly adequate and cost-effective choice for the average driver.
4. Limited Availability
Not all car shipping companies offer enclosed transport, and in some areas, it can be particularly challenging to find a provider who offers this option.
Even for those who do, enclosed transporters are often booked in advance and may not be readily available in every region or during certain times of the year.
During peak shipping seasons, such as the end of the year or in the summer, the demand for enclosed car transport rises, making it harder to secure a quote and potentially causing further delays.
If you are in a hurry or need a fast turnaround, the limited availability could become a frustrating obstacle in securing the transport you need.
5. Smaller Transport Capacity
Enclosed transporters generally have a smaller capacity compared to open transporters.
Open car transport trailers can carry anywhere from 6 to 10 vehicles in one trip, depending on their size, while enclosed car transport trailers usually carry only 2 to 4 vehicles.
This lower capacity often means that enclosed transporters prioritize high-value cars and can only accept a limited number of bookings.
As a result, you may be forced to wait longer to secure space on a truck or be limited in the number of vehicles you can ship at once.
For those looking to transport multiple vehicles, the reduced capacity could significantly hinder their shipping schedule and increase costs as they may need to schedule multiple shipments.
6. More Time Consuming
The process of shipping a vehicle through an enclosed transport carrier can take longer than open transport.
Enclosed carriers typically travel longer routes, as they often serve a smaller pool of customers, and the truck may need to take indirect routes to deliver all the cars it is transporting.
Enclosed transport carriers also tend to prioritize more valuable cars over standard ones, meaning your vehicle might have to wait for a free spot or be delayed due to the prioritization of higher-value shipments.
This results in longer delivery times, which can be frustrating if you need your car quickly.
While open transport may not offer the same level of protection, it generally ensures faster delivery due to its larger capacity and broader availability.
7. Not Ideal for Large or Oversized Vehicles
If you are looking to ship a large vehicle, such as an SUV, pickup truck, or cargo van, you might face challenges when choosing enclosed car transport.
Many enclosed transporters are not equipped to handle oversized vehicles, as they are designed for standard-sized cars.
Enclosed car transporters typically have limited space in the truck’s compartments, and larger vehicles may not fit comfortably or safely.
If your car or truck exceeds the dimensions of a standard enclosed transport truck, finding an appropriate shipping solution can become more complicated.
In such cases, open transport might be the better choice as it offers greater flexibility in terms of size and the types of vehicles that can be shipped.
7 Reasons to Burn Your Money on Enclosed Car Transport
1. Maximum Protection Against Elements
One of the most significant advantages of enclosed car transport is its ability to offer unparalleled protection for your vehicle.
Whether it’s harsh weather conditions, road debris, or flying rocks, your car is shielded from the elements inside an enclosed trailer. This level of protection is invaluable, especially when transporting luxury cars or classic vehicles.
For high-value or collector cars, protecting the exterior and interior from potential damage is crucial. Enclosed transport ensures your car arrives in pristine condition, free from scratches, dents, or dirt buildup from the journey.
2. Enhanced Security
When your vehicle is being shipped in an open carrier, it’s visible to everyone along the route, which increases the risk of theft or vandalism.
With enclosed car transport, your vehicle is hidden from view, greatly reducing the chances of criminal activity.
This added layer of security is essential, particularly when transporting high-end cars or rare collectibles that are attractive targets for thieves.
The enclosed transport trailer acts as a fortress, protecting your investment from prying eyes and providing peace of mind that your car is safe during transit.
3. Ideal for High-Value Vehicles
Luxury cars, vintage models, and rare collectibles require a higher level of care during transport.
These vehicles are often irreplaceable, making them vulnerable to damage from weather, debris, or even minor accidents.
Enclosed car transport guarantees that your prized possessions are well-protected throughout the journey.
The extra care provided ensures that your investment remains secure, and the likelihood of damage is significantly reduced.
This is especially important when transporting cars that have both monetary and sentimental value.
4. Better for Long-Distance Travel
When shipping vehicles over long distances, especially across regions with unpredictable weather conditions or hazardous roads, enclosed car transport becomes the preferred choice.
Unlike open transport, which exposes your car to the elements, enclosed transport keeps it completely protected from extreme temperatures, heavy rain, snow, and road debris.
This is crucial if you’re transporting a vehicle through areas that experience frequent bad weather, as it ensures that your car won’t be damaged by external conditions along the way.
Long-distance travel often involves many potential risks, but enclosed transport minimizes those risks.
5. Insurance Coverage
Another major benefit of enclosed car transport is the insurance coverage that typically comes with it.
Many enclosed transport services offer more comprehensive insurance compared to open car transport, which often comes with more limited coverage.
This added protection gives you extra peace of mind, knowing that any potential damage to your vehicle during transport will be covered by a robust insurance policy.
Higher-value vehicles may require additional insurance, and enclosed transport typically offers that assurance to ensure your car is fully protected, from pick-up to delivery.
6. Protection for Custom and Modified Cars
If you own a modified car, whether it’s been upgraded for performance or customized for aesthetic appeal, enclosed car transport is the best option to protect those unique features.
Custom cars are often more susceptible to damage from external forces, especially in open carriers, where the vehicle is exposed to dust, dirt, and harsh elements.
The extra care and protection offered by enclosed transport are ideal for these types of vehicles. It ensures that custom parts, performance enhancements, and special features stay in top condition while in transit.
7. Climate Control
For vehicles that require temperature-sensitive care, such as those with leather interiors, sensitive electronics, or rare finishes, some enclosed transport carriers come equipped with climate control features.
This is especially important when shipping vehicles that cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold.
Climate control ensures that the interior of the vehicle stays at a stable temperature, preventing damage to the interior materials or electronics.
Whether you’re shipping a luxury vehicle or a classic car with delicate interior finishes, climate-controlled enclosed transport offers the optimal environment for your car’s journey.
Conclusion: Make the Right Choice for Your Vehicle
Now that you know the pros and cons of enclosed car transport, take the following steps to decide what’s best for your vehicle:
- Assess your car’s value—if it’s luxury or classic, opt for enclosed transport for added protection.
- Get multiple quotes from enclosed car transport companies to compare prices and services.
- Consider your budget and timeline—if you’re looking to save money and time, open transport may be the better choice for regular vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is enclosed auto transport?
Enclosed auto transport refers to shipping your vehicle inside a fully enclosed car transport trailer to protect it from external elements such as weather, road debris, and theft. This service is typically chosen for luxury cars, classic vehicles, and customized automobiles that require extra care during transit.
2. How does enclosed vehicle shipping differ from open transport?
Enclosed vehicle shipping uses a closed trailer to fully protect your car from environmental hazards, unlike open car shipping, where the vehicle is exposed to the elements. This added protection is especially crucial for high-value vehicles or modified cars that require a higher level of security and care.
3. What are the benefits of using enclosed auto transport companies?
Enclosed auto transport companies specialize in shipping high-value vehicles securely. By using an enclosed auto shipping service, your vehicle is shielded from weather, debris, and other risks, ensuring it arrives in the same condition as it was shipped. This service is ideal for luxury cars and rare vehicles that need protection.
4. Can I get an enclosed car transport quote?
Yes, most enclosed car transport companies offer enclosed auto transport quotes online or via phone. You can request a quote by providing details about the vehicle, destination, and preferred delivery times. Enclosed car shipping quotes will vary based on the vehicle’s value, distance, and transport needs.
5. Is renting an enclosed auto transport trailer possible?
Yes, some companies offer enclosed auto transport trailer rental services, allowing you to transport your own vehicle. Renting an enclosed auto trailer can be an option if you’re looking to move multiple cars or need to use a specialized trailer for customized vehicles.
6. What is the advantage of using a covered auto transport service?
A covered auto transport service, which uses an enclosed car shipping trailer, provides full protection against weather, debris, and theft. This service is particularly important for luxury cars and vintage models that need to be shielded from environmental hazards during long-distance travel.
7. How does enclosed car shipping protect my vehicle during transit?
Enclosed car shipping services offer extra protection by keeping your car inside a secure, closed trailer. This method ensures that your vehicle is shielded from road debris, harsh weather, and other potential risks. Additionally, many enclosed auto transport services offer climate control features to maintain an optimal environment during transit.
8. How do I find car haulers near me for enclosed transport?
You can search for car haulers near me who specialize in enclosed car transport services. Many companies offer enclosed auto shipping services that cater to specific regions, and you can easily get in touch for quotes and availability to ensure your luxury vehicle or classic car is properly transported.
Interested in learning more about car shipping?
Check out our other blog post on how to choose the right vehicle transport method for your car.
Need to ship your car? Get a free quote today for both enclosed and open car transport services and choose the best option for your needs!
