If you are planning a long-distance move for yourself, your family, or your company, you may be considering using an auto transportation service to make the process easier. Shipping your vehicle can save you time and stress, but there is an important decision you will need to make: should you go with open or enclosed auto transport? Each option has its own benefits, and understanding the differences can help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
The Basics: What is the Difference?
The primary difference between open and enclosed auto transport lies in how the vehicle is protected during transport. Both options are designed to safeguard your vehicle, but they do so in different ways.
Open air transport involves a trailer with open sides, allowing vehicles to be transported without a cover. The vehicle is secured with bars and other measures, but it is exposed to the elements throughout the journey. It is the most common and cost-effective option for transporting vehicles over long distances. Although your vehicle may be exposed to weather, road debris, and dust, open air transport is still considered safe for most cars.
On the other hand, enclosed auto transport uses a fully enclosed trailer, essentially a “box” on wheels, to protect the vehicle from the outside elements. This option is typically reserved for higher-end or luxury cars, as it offers an additional layer of security and protection from the weather, dirt, and other hazards.
Which Option Is Right for You?
The choice between open and enclosed auto transport often comes down to factors like budget, vehicle type, and personal preferences.
Price
If cost is a major concern, open air transport is usually the better choice. Because it allows multiple vehicles to be shipped at once, the cost per vehicle is generally lower. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, tends to be more expensive due to the extra protection and the fact that it can only accommodate one car at a time.
Vehicle Type
If you are transporting a high-end, vintage, or luxury vehicle that needs to remain in pristine condition, enclosed transport is the way to go. It provides an added level of protection against environmental factors like rain, snow, and road debris, which can be especially important for valuable cars. On the other hand, for standard vehicles, open air transport is usually sufficient and can be just as safe.
Number of Vehicles
If you need to ship several vehicles at once, open air transport is the better option. Open trailers are designed to carry multiple cars simultaneously, which means you can save money by shipping your vehicles together. Enclosed transport does allow for multiple vehicles to be transported, but it is often far more limited than open auto transport.
Time and Distance
The type of transport you choose may also depend on the distance your car needs to travel. For shorter distances, open air transport is often just as reliable and secure. For longer trips or moves across the country, you may prefer the extra peace of mind that comes with enclosed transport.
