Enclosed vs Open Transport

If you are planning on shipping your vehicle long distance, it’s important to understand the differences between enclosed transport and open transport. It is also important to consider the value of your vehicle when deciding which option to choose. In the article below, learn about the benefits and drawbacks of both transport methods.

Open Auto Transport

Open Transport is the most common and the general public has seen open transports dozens of times while driving down the highway. Open Transport is the most common, about 90% of vehicle transportation in the US are transported this way. The trailer does not have a roof or sides and typically has cars stacked on top of each other on metal ramps. Each car will be exposed to the weather and sun.

Benefits of Open Transport:

• Due to the popularity of open transport, it is the cheapest option
• The truck driver has good visibility, they can monitor the status of the vehicle
• Almost all vehicles fit on open transport due to lack of sides or roof
• A single truck can transport more vehicles than enclosed transport, making it more efficient

Disadvantages of Open Transport:

• Cars are exposed during the duration of the transport to the elements – sun, rain, wind, snow, dust, road debris, insects and even bird excrement which can cause serious damage to the vehicle
• Since these trucks carry more vehicles, they will have more stops before they pick up and deliver your vehicle
• Each transport company has different insurance, some may not cover vehicles over a certain value
• Your vehicle will arrive dirty
• Most open transport companies only carry a cargo insurance policy that ranges from $100,000 to $250,000

Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed Transport provides the safest and cleanest environment for vehicle transportation. Every enclosed transport provides complete protection from the environment. This is the best option for high value, luxury, exotic or antique cars.

Advantages of Enclosed Transport:

• Vehicles are protected from the elements – no rain, snow, wind or bugs can damage your vehicle
• The transport drivers use high tech hydraulic ramps to load vehicles which prevents scratching the front of lowered vehicles
• Fewer stops to deliver vehicles since only 6-7 vehicles are on each truck
• Enclosed transports typically have a greater insurance policy to cover more expensive vehicles
• Your vehicle will arrive practically as clean as when you loaded it 

Disadvantages of Enclosed Transport:

• There are much fewer enclosed transport companies in the USA, which means fewer trucks
• Enclosed transport is more expensive because the equipment is more expensive and they carry fewer vehicles

How Much Does Shipping a Vehicle Cost?

The cost of open or enclosed transport will vary depending on a few factors.

1. Size, Weight & Type of Vehicle: The size and weight of your vehicle can dramatically affect the price. Since transports do have weight limits, you could expect additional charges if your vehicle is very heavy or large. Some transport companies will allow you to fill your vehicle with personal items and some will allow your gas tank to be full as well. This varies per company so it is recommended to ask early in the process if this is important to you.
2. Distance: Transport companies charge you based on total mileage from the pickup address to the delivery address. Each mile usually translates into anywhere from a few cents to a dollar or more. You may be able to save money if you are willing to meet the transport at a truck stop or rest area along a major highway or conveniently off a highway, rather than making them drive through residential developments.
3.  Transport Method: As mentioned above, you can expect to pay more if you use an enclosed transportation company.
4.  Condition of the Vehicle: Does your vehicle run and drive? If your vehicle can’t be driven onto the transport truck, you can expect an additional cost since it will require additional manpower to move your vehicle.
5.  Time of the Year: Prices can vary depending on supply and demand. Generally, the summer months can be slightly more expensive since the demand is higher.
6.  Fuel Prices: Diesel prices can dramatically affect the price of vehicle transportation. If diesel prices are increasing, expect to pay more for transport.
7.  Advanced Notice: If you need last-minute vehicle transportation, be prepared to spend more. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible to lock in the best price.
8. Location: If your vehicle needs to be picked up or dropped off somewhere that is not frequently traveled, the cost will increase.

AutoBox Express vs Other Transport Companies

Most other transport companies do not own or operate a single transport truck. You provide your information, they reach out to the transport companies and sell your transport to them. These companies make millions of dollars and hope that the transport company takes good care of your vehicle.

When you hire AutoBox Express, you hire car enthusiasts and true professionals. You won’t find another transport company that operates with the same level of service and state-of-the-art equipment.

A few of the unique features on the AutoBox Trucks:

• Unique liftgates that lay flat on the ground so vehicles are never scraped when loaded or unloaded. If we can load and unload Ferrari F1 racecars, your vehicle won’t scrape. They are also extra wide so they can fit G-Wagons and Mercedes 4×4 squared.
• We only tie down vehicles using a low profile soft strapping method that goes around your tires instead of through the rims which adds a ton of pressure and can often scratch rims.
• Our transport drivers put protective plastic seat covers before entering your vehicle, steering wheel covers, and protective floor mats
• GPS remote tracking
• 7 Days/24 hours customer service
• All transport drivers are in able physical condition and have knowledge of all exotic vehicles
• Climate control vehicle storage if needed

Your vehicle is a big investment and its safety is very important to you. Please provide us a little information and we will be happy to send you a quote.