Open vs. Enclosed Auto Transport: Which Do You Need?

Roughly 90% of cars ship on open carriers — the same kind of trailer that delivers new cars to dealerships. Enclosed is the premium option. Here's how to choose without overpaying.

Open transport

Your car rides on an open, uncovered trailer alongside several others. It's exposed to weather and road spray, but it's the cheaper, faster, more available option — there are far more open carriers on the road, so your load gets claimed quicker. For the vast majority of everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs, open transport is the right call.

Enclosed transport

Your car travels inside a covered trailer, protected from weather, dust, and debris. It typically costs 40–60% more and can take a little longer to book because there are fewer enclosed carriers. What you're buying is protection and peace of mind, not speed.

When enclosed is worth it

• High-value vehicles — exotics, luxury, or anything where a rock chip is a real financial hit.
• Classics and collectibles — irreplaceable paint and finishes.
• Low-clearance cars — enclosed trailers often have lift gates instead of steep ramps.
• Long routes in rough weather — cross-country in winter, for example.

When open is the smart choice

For a standard daily driver, a lease return, a college move, or a snowbird's everyday sedan, open transport gets it there safely for hundreds less. Modern open carriers are how nearly every new car reaches the dealer — it's a proven, safe way to move a normal vehicle.