Open vs Enclosed Car Transport: Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to shipping a car across the country or even just a few states away, one of the most common questions people ask is:

Should I choose open transport or enclosed transport?

Both methods are widely used in the auto transport industry, but they are designed for different types of customers and vehicles. In this guide, we'll break down the advantages, disadvantages, costs, and ideal scenarios for both options so you can confidently decide which transport service best fits your needs.

What Is Open Car Transport?

Open car transport is the most common and affordable way to ship vehicles. Cars are loaded onto an open-air trailer, usually carrying 7–10 vehicles at a time. If you've ever seen a large truck carrying cars on the highway, that's open transport in action.

✅ Advantages of Open Transport:

Lower cost – Open transport is typically 30–40% cheaper than enclosed shipping.

Faster availability – Since most carriers use open trailers, pickup and delivery schedules are more flexible.

Industry standard – Nearly 90% of shipped cars in the U.S. are moved with open transport.

❌ Disadvantages of Open Transport:

Exposure to elements – Cars are exposed to rain, snow, sun, dust, and road debris.

Less exclusivity – Vehicles are transported with several others, meaning less personal handling.

Potential for minor cosmetic issues – While rare, vehicles may arrive with dirt, bug stains, or small chips from road debris.

What Is Enclosed Car Transport?

Enclosed car transport offers maximum protection by placing vehicles inside a fully covered trailer. These trailers usually carry 2–6 cars and provide a premium service designed for luxury, exotic, or classic vehicles.

✅ Advantages of Enclosed Transport:

Full protection – Vehicles are shielded from weather, dirt, and debris.

Extra security – Fewer cars per trailer means less handling and reduced risk.

Higher insurance coverage – Many enclosed carriers offer larger insurance policies, ideal for high-value vehicles.

Specialized handling – Professional drivers with experience in exotic and rare cars often operate enclosed carriers.

❌ Disadvantages of Enclosed Transport:

Higher cost – Prices are generally 40–60% more than open transport.

Less availability – Fewer enclosed carriers operate in the U.S., which may extend wait times.

Not necessary for every car – If your vehicle is a daily driver or older model, enclosed shipping may not be worth the price.

Cost Comparison: Open vs Enclosed

On average, the difference in cost between open and enclosed transport can be significant. Here's a breakdown:

Open Transport: $800 – $1,200 (cross-country average)

Enclosed Transport: $1,400 – $2,000+ (cross-country average)

Example: Shipping a Toyota Camry from New York to California might cost around $1,000 with open transport, while the same shipment in an enclosed trailer could be closer to $1,700.

When to Choose Open Transport

Open transport is the best option if:

You want the most affordable way to ship your car.

Your vehicle is a standard daily driver or older model.

You need faster scheduling and flexible pickup options.

Minor exposure to weather and dust isn't a major concern.

When to Choose Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport makes sense if:

You are shipping a luxury, exotic, or classic car.

Your vehicle has a high resale or sentimental value.

You want maximum protection during transport.

You are shipping during harsh weather seasons (snow, heavy rain, or extreme heat).

Open vs Enclosed: Which Is Safer?

Both methods are safe — professional carriers must meet strict licensing, insurance, and safety standards. However, enclosed transport does offer greater peace of mind.

If your vehicle's paint, bodywork, or condition is extremely important, enclosed transport is the safer bet. For most other cars, open transport is more than sufficient.

FastCarShip Recommendation

At FastCarShip, we provide both open and enclosed transport options to give you complete flexibility. Our expert team will help you determine which service is the best fit for your situation.

Shipping a commuter car or family vehicle? → Go with open transport.

Shipping a luxury, collectible, or specialty car? → Choose enclosed transport.

Final Thoughts

The choice between open and enclosed car transport ultimately comes down to your budget, vehicle type, and personal preferences.

Open transport = affordable, fast, and reliable for most vehicles.

Enclosed transport = premium protection for high-value cars.

👉 Ready to ship your vehicle? Get a free instant quote today and let us make your car transport experience easy, safe, and stress-free.

Key Takeaways

Open transport is cheaper and more common but leaves vehicles exposed.

Enclosed transport is more expensive but offers maximum protection.

The right choice depends on your vehicle's value and your peace of mind.

FastCarShip offers both options, tailored to your needs.

Professional car shipping truck transporting vehicles on highway

Professional auto transport carriers ensure safe delivery nationwide with experienced drivers and modern equipment

Luxury cars being carefully loaded onto enclosed transport trailer

Enclosed transport provides maximum protection for luxury, classic, and high-value vehicles during shipping

Open vs Enclosed Car Transport: Which Should You Choose?

Open vs Enclosed Car Transport: Which Should You Choose?

What Is Open Car Transport?

✅ Advantages of Open Transport:

❌ Disadvantages of Open Transport:

What Is Enclosed Car Transport?

✅ Advantages of Enclosed Transport:

❌ Disadvantages of Enclosed Transport:

Cost Comparison: Open vs Enclosed

When to Choose Open Transport

When to Choose Enclosed Transport

Open vs Enclosed: Which Is Safer?

FastCarShip Recommendation

Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways

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