Introduction
When it comes to shipping a car, one of the most important choices you’ll make is whether to use open carrier transport or enclosed carrier transport. Both options are safe and reliable, but the right choice depends on your vehicle, budget, and preferences.
At Auto Transport Wave, we help customers nationwide choose the best solution for their needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between open and enclosed shipping, explain pricing, and help you decide which option is right for you.
What is Open Carrier Transport?
Open carrier transport is the most common and affordable method of car shipping.
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Vehicles are loaded onto a two-level trailer that typically carries 7–10 cars.
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Cars are exposed to the weather, road debris, and dust, but they are secured safely.
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This is the industry standard for dealerships and everyday customers.
Best for:
✅ Standard sedans, SUVs, trucks, daily-use cars
✅ Customers looking for the most budget-friendly option
✅ Long-distance relocations
Advantages:
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Lower cost (usually 30–50% less than enclosed)
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Faster availability (more open carriers on the road)
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Reliable option for most vehicles
Disadvantages:
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Exposure to weather conditions
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Not ideal for luxury, exotic, or collector cars
What is Enclosed Carrier Transport?
Enclosed car shipping means your vehicle is transported in a fully covered trailer.
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Protection from rain, snow, dust, and debris.
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Usually carries fewer vehicles (2–6 cars).
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Drivers are often specialized in handling luxury and rare cars.
Best for:
✅ Exotic cars (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, etc.)
✅ Classic or vintage vehicles
✅ Luxury sedans and SUVs
✅ Cars with custom paint jobs or low ground clearance
Advantages:
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Maximum protection and security
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Enclosed trailers often have hydraulic lift gates for safe loading
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Peace of mind for high-value cars
Disadvantages:
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Higher cost (30–60% more expensive than open transport)
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Limited availability compared to open carriers
Cost Comparison: Open vs. Enclosed
While prices vary based on distance, vehicle type, and route, here’s a general breakdown:
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Open Carrier: $600 – $1,200 for cross-country routes
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Enclosed Carrier: $1,000 – $2,000+ for cross-country routes
💡 Pro Tip: If your car’s value exceeds $50,000, enclosed transport is usually the smarter choice.
Safety & Insurance Considerations
Both open and enclosed carriers are insured and regulated by the FMCSA.
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Open transport is very safe, but there’s a small risk of cosmetic damage from weather or debris.
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Enclosed transport provides added peace of mind, especially for collectors.
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At Auto Transport Wave, insurance is always included in your shipping price.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick decision guide:
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Choose Open Transport if…
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You’re shipping an everyday car
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You want the most affordable option
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You need fast pickup and delivery
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Choose Enclosed Transport if…
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Your car is rare, luxury, exotic, or classic
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You’re concerned about weather exposure
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You want the highest level of protection
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FAQs
Q: Is open transport safe?
A: Yes. Open carriers are the industry standard and safely move thousands of cars every day.
Q: How much more expensive is enclosed transport?
A: Typically 30–60% more than open carrier, depending on distance.
Q: Will my car be insured during transport?
A: Absolutely. Every Auto Transport Wave shipment includes carrier insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Choosing between open and enclosed car transport comes down to your vehicle type, budget, and comfort level. For most cars, open transport is affordable and reliable. But for high-value, classic, or luxury cars, enclosed shipping offers unmatched peace of mind.
👉 At Auto Transport Wave, we provide both open and enclosed transport nationwide. Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you make the best choice for your car.