Open auto transport and enclosed auto transport are two common methods for transporting vehicles, each with its own set of advantages and considerations.

Here are some key comparisons between the two:

Vehicle Exposure:

• Open Transport:
  Vehicles are transported on open trailers, exposing them to external elements such as weather, road debris, and dust.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Vehicles are transported in enclosed trailers, providing protection from external elements, including weather conditions and road debris.

Cost Difference:

• Open Transport:
  Generally more cost-effective as open carriers transport more vehicles at once, spreading the cost among multiple customers.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Typically more expensive due to the added protection and limited capacity for fewer vehicles.

Vehicle Protection:

• Open Transport:
  While generally safe, there is a higher risk of exposure to the elements and potential minor damage from road debris.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Offers superior protection, reducing the risk of weather-related damage, road debris, and other external factors.

Security and Privacy:

• Open Transport:
  Vehicles are visible during transportation, and there is limited privacy.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Provides a higher level of security and privacy as vehicles are enclosed and not visible to the public.

Types of Vehicles Transported:

• Open Transport:
  Ideal for standard vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and trucks.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Preferred for high-value, luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles that require extra protection.

Availability and Speed:

• Open Transport:
  More widely available and often faster due to the higher number of open carriers.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Availability may be limited, and transit times can be longer due to fewer enclosed carriers.

Weather Considerations:

• Open Transport:
  Vehicles are exposed to weather conditions, which can be a concern in extreme climates.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Provides a secure environment, protecting vehicles from adverse weather conditions.

Overall Condition of Vehicles:

• Open Transport:
  Suitable for most vehicles in good condition.
• Enclosed Transport:
  Ideal for preserving the pristine condition of high-end or collectible vehicles.

When choosing between open and enclosed auto transport, it's essential to consider your vehicle's value, the level of protection required, and your budget constraints. Each option has its advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.

Learn More about each service:

• Open Auto Transport
• Enclosed Auto Transport

When requesting a quote to transport your vehicle, you sure need to decide what kind of trailer you prefer for the shipment.

There are two main types of trailers:

Open multi-car hauler

The most common type of trailer is an open multi-car hauler, which takes up to 9 cars on a single trailer. When transporting a vehicle on an open trailer, you should consider that the car is exposed to weather conditions such as sun, rain, winds, etc.

Enclosed multi-car hauler

Enclosed trailers are the safer option and, of course, are more expensive than open trailers. Expensive cars with low ground clearance are strongly advised to be shipped with an enclosed trailer with a lift gate or low ramps.

No matter which option you choose, the chosen carrier will have cargo insurance on file, which covers the external damages during the transportation process with a small amount of deductible (it varies from carrier to carrier).

Best Regards

Tempus Logix Vehicle Transport

www.tempuslogix.com

The vehicles moved with open auto transport carriers are not protected from weather elements like rain, sun, hail and snow, and from dust, insects and even birds. This is one of the biggest disadvantages of this type of carrier. If you are opting for this type of car carrier transport, you should be aware that your vehicle will be exposed to all those elements.

However, auto transport companies take great care and deliver the cars to their final destination in good condition. They use well trained truckers who understand the value of their cargo. The cars are also neatly strapped and packed in the carrier in order to reduce mobility and vibrations caused by the road while the cars are in transit. An advantage though it is that in most cases the open auto transport is faster than the enclosed. Open car shipping services are in higher demand which leads to more truckers driving open car transporters.

So, although those types of vehicle haulers often carry more cars than one cars and you would think this makes them slower, the scheduling is easier which often makes them faster. Open auto transport is more affordable and still very secure mode of transporting a vehicle from and to any point in the US.

An enclosed auto transport carrier is a great car shipping option you can use especially if you will transport a classic or custom vehicle. It is opposite to the open car carrier shipping service. In an enclosed car carrier, the vehicles are housed in an covered truck. Enclosed carriers often can only carry a few vehicles at the same. In most cases up to five automobiles.

So, it could be faster, but in fact the truth is that there are fewer enclosed transporters on the road which makes them harder to schedule. Besides this in most cases enclosed auto transport is more costly than open car carrier transport. The biggest advantage though is that the cars are protected from weather elements such as rain, hail, sun and the likes. So, enclosed car carrier offer a better protection for your vehicle while it’s been transported.

It depends on your comfort level. Are you ok with the vehicle exposed to the element while in transport 

or would you feel better knowing your vehicle is secured inside an enclosed truck. Higher end car owners 

usually go with enclosed while your typical daily driver goes with open. The choice is yours.

You can shose both but open trailer will not be covered while your car is on the trailer and enclosed one means you car will be covered from all sides and there will not be any risk for your vehicle to be scratched slduring the shipment, however there are still have full coverage of insurance for both opan and enclosed trailer for your shipment which is bumper to bumper.

Open car transport means that your vehicle will be outdoors and exposed to the elements during transit. This is the most common and economical way to ship your vehicle. Enclosed auto transport adds a layer of safety and ensures your vehicle is protected on all 4 sides. It normally costs about 30%-40% more than open car transport. We recommend you take advantage of our enclosed auto transport services if you are shipping a classic, luxury, vintage, sport or antique vehicle. If your vehicle has less than 4-inch ground clearance we also recommend you use enclosed auto transport for its safety.

Open Auto Transport

Transporting your vehicle in a open trailer is the most common and economic way to ship your car. There are many different types of open trailers available to haul your vehicle. The cross country auto haulers can transport 7-10 vehicles at a time. The short distance haulers usually transport 2-5 vehicles.

Enclosed Auto Transport

This method of transport is usually for luxury, exotic or classic vehicles. Enclosed auto transport protects your vehicle against rain, dirt, dust, grime and other natural elements of the road. Your vehicle will be enclosed inside a trailer that has hard sided or soft sided walls. Some of the trailers include a lift gate and can lift vehicles up on to the 2nd level of the trailer. Another type of trailer includes race ramps which are long ramps designed to load low profile vehicles without damaging the undercarriage. The smaller enclosed trailers are called hot shot car haulers, they are mainly used for expedited orders.

open transport when car get load on top of truck trailer, vs enclosed when car get loaded inside box trailer

Open means that your vehicle will be outdoors and exposed, meanwhile enclosed is not

Open carriers are the most common type of car carriers. The majority of cars shipped in the US are carried by open trailers. Open trailers mean that vehicles will be exposed to outside factors.

Enclosed carriers offer more protection when shipping a vehicle. Being enclosed, these trailers keep your car away from the outside elements. You won’t have to worry about bad weather or random debris damaging your vehicle. Most enclosed carriers usually only haul 3-4 cars at a time. This means your vehicle will have no cars above it, keeping it from falling parts or leakage.

Note: Enclosed carrier are the safest way to transport a vehicle but in comparison to open carrier enclosed is very expensive  

Open car transport and enclosed car transport are two types of vehicle transport services offered by car shipping companies. The main difference between the two is the level of protection provided to the vehicle during transit.

Open car transport involves shipping a car on an open trailer, where the vehicle is exposed to the elements and potential road debris. This method is often used for standard vehicles and is a more affordable option.

Enclosed car transport involves shipping a car in a fully enclosed trailer, which provides more protection from the elements and potential damage during transit. This method is often used for luxury, high-end, or classic cars, and is a more expensive option.

The choice between open car transport and enclosed car transport depends on the value of the vehicle, the distance of the transport, and the level of protection required. It is important to choose a reputable car shipping company and to read and understand the terms and conditions of the service before making a decision. If you have a valuable or classic car, or if you are transporting a vehicle over a long distance, enclosed transport may be the better option to ensure maximum protection. However, if you have a standard car and are looking for a more affordable shipping option, open transport may be a suitable choice. Ultimately, it is important to choose a reputable car shipping company and to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

In auto transport, the terms "open carrier" and "enclosed carrier" refer to the types of trailers used to transport vehicles. The main difference lies in the level of protection and security they offer during transportation.

1. Open Carrier: An open carrier, also known as an open trailer or flatbed trailer, is a type of trailer that does not have walls or a roof, leaving the vehicles exposed to the elements. It is the most common and cost-effective method of auto transport. Multiple vehicles are typically loaded onto the trailer and secured with straps or chains. While open carriers are widely used and considered safe, they do not provide protection against weather conditions, road debris, or potential damage from external elements.

2. Enclosed Carrier: An enclosed carrier, also known as an enclosed trailer or covered trailer, is a type of trailer that has walls and a roof, fully enclosing the vehicles being transported. This provides greater protection and security for the vehicles during transit. Enclosed carriers are often used for transporting high-value, classic, exotic, or luxury cars. They shield the vehicles from weather conditions, dust, road debris, and potential damage caused by external factors. Enclosed carriers offer a higher level of protection and are generally more expensive compared to open carriers.

Choosing between an open carrier and an enclosed carrier depends on various factors, including the value and condition of the vehicle, personal preferences, and budget. If you have a standard vehicle and are looking for a cost-effective transportation option, an open carrier might be a suitable choice. However, if you have a valuable or delicate vehicle that requires additional protection, an enclosed carrier is recommended to safeguard it during transit.

open trailer is commonly used for auto transports, it's cheaper than enclosed but if it rains,snows,etc your vehicle will catch the debris from the weather. Enclosed trailer our mainly used for luxury vehicles such as vipers,corvettes,BMW G wagons, just to name a few that dont wanna be exposed to any debris at all by being inside a covered trailer

Enclosed transport is when a vehicle shipping company uses a custom built, hard sided and fully enclosed equipment to transport vehicles. This special type of equipment protects your vehicle from every hazard on the road. Dirt, dust, rocks or any other hazard of the road will have no way of damaging your vehicle when it is on one of our high class enclosed trailers. If you are moving a rare or a high value vehicle the best option for you is to choose our enclosed vehicle shipping service. Enclosed vehicle shipping is the safest method to transport your vehicle to any destination in the United States.

Open Car Shipping our most popular vehicle transportation service. It means that your vehicle will be picked up as close to your home as legally possible and it will be delivered exactly where you need it delivered. Open vehicle transportation service is our most popular service because it is the most convenient and saves our clients the cost of having to get a taxi or make arrangements with someone to drive them to a location where they can pick up their vehicle. Our open service usually picks up your vehicle from your desired pick up location and delivers it exactly where you want it to be delivered! This type of vehicle transportation is the number one choice and also the highest rated amongst our customers. Open vehicle transportation is really convenient for people who need their car transported, safely, quickly and at a unbeatable price.

An open carrier is a type of auto transport trailer that is open to the elements, with vehicles loaded onto multiple levels or racks. This method is cost-effective but offers less protection from weather conditions and road debris. In contrast, an enclosed carrier is a trailer with walls and a roof, providing increased protection for vehicles during transportation.

Understanding the difference between an open and an enclosed carrier is essential when deciding on the best transport method for your vehicle. Here's a detailed explanation:

Open Carrier:

Visibility: Open carriers are the most common type of car transporters. They are characterized by their open-sided trailers, allowing your vehicle to be visible to the outside.

Cost: Open carriers are generally more cost-effective compared to enclosed carriers. Since they can carry multiple vehicles at once, the cost per vehicle is lower.

Exposure: While your vehicle is securely loaded and strapped down on the carrier, it is exposed to external elements during transport. This exposure includes weather conditions, road debris, and dust.

Suitable for Most Vehicles: Open carriers are suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and trucks, as long as they are in good working condition.

Common Choice: Most dealerships and manufacturers use open carriers for new vehicle deliveries, and they are a popular choice for everyday vehicle transport.

Enclosed Carrier:

Protection: Enclosed carriers are fully enclosed trailers with solid sides and a roof. They provide the highest level of protection for your vehicle during transport.

Security: Vehicles transported in enclosed carriers are shielded from the elements, road debris, and potential theft or vandalism. They are securely enclosed and typically handled with extra care.

Specialized Transport: Enclosed carriers are often used for high-end, luxury, classic, vintage, or exotic vehicles. These vehicles may have unique requirements due to their value or delicate nature.

Higher Cost: Due to the added protection and specialized handling, enclosed carriers are more expensive than open carriers. However, they provide peace of mind and protection for valuable or cherished vehicles.

Limited Capacity: Enclosed carriers typically have limited capacity, carrying fewer vehicles at a time. This can result in longer lead times for booking.

Specialized Service: If your vehicle requires extra care or is of high value, an enclosed carrier is the preferred choice. It is also commonly used for transporting show cars to exhibitions or collectors' items.

With open transport, your car is usually transported on a long, two-level trailer. Open transport is suitable for any type of vehicle, especially for standard models or used cars. With the enclosed transport, your car is shipped via a car carrier with a fully enclosed trailer.

• Open Carrier:

Open carriers are trailers without walls or roofs, exposing vehicles to the elements.

They are cost-effective and commonly used for standard vehicle transport.

While vehicles are exposed to weather and road debris, open carriers are the more economical choice.

• Enclosed Carrier:

Enclosed carriers have walls and roofs, providing protection from weather and potential damage.

These carriers are typically used for high-value, classic, or luxury vehicles.

They offer better security and protection but come at a higher cost compared to open carriers.

Pros and Cons of Open and Enclosed Car Carriers

What’s the difference between open and enclosed auto transport?

Open Transport is what most people think of when they see the long transport Carriers on interstate highways, sometimes double-deckers with 7-10 cars. But Open Transport may also be done with smaller trucks, capable of carrying just 3-4 vehicles. This means that the vehicle is open to the elements, and a car may arrive at its destination dirtier than when it started out. Think of “open transport” as flying coach-class. It is the most economical way to go, and 75% of customers choose open transport

Enclosed car transport is more akin to flying 1st class or business-class: and in the cases of transporting a Bentley or Lamborghini, it’s a “white-glove-level” service. Not only is your vehicle protected on all sides, it’s typically shipped on a smaller transporter -- usually a 6-car lift-gate trailer, or occasionally a 1 or 2 car carrier. Enclosed auto shipping costs 40-60% more than an open carrier and is recommended for a vehicle >$70,000.

See our comparison options and benefits.

The vehicles moved with open auto transport carriers are not protected from weather elements like rain, sun, hail and snow, and from dust, insects and even birds. This is one of the biggest disadvantages of this type of carrier. If you are opting for this type of car carrier transport, you should be aware that your vehicle will be exposed to all those elements.

However, auto transport companies take great care and deliver the cars to their final destination in good condition. They use well trained truckers who understand the value of their cargo. The cars are also neatly strapped and packed in the carrier in order to reduce mobility and vibrations caused by the road while the cars are in transit. An advantage though it is that in most cases the open auto transport is faster than the enclosed. Open car shipping services are in higher demand which leads to more truckers driving open car transporters.

So, although those types of vehicle haulers often carry more cars than one cars and you would think this makes them slower, the scheduling is easier which often makes them faster. Open auto transport is more affordable and still very secure mode of transporting a vehicle from and to any point in the US.

An enclosed auto transport carrier is a great car shipping option you can use especially if you will transport a classic or custom vehicle. It is opposite to the open car carrier shipping service. In an enclosed car carrier, the vehicles are housed in an covered truck. Enclosed carriers often can only carry a few vehicles at the same. In most cases up to five automobiles.

So, it could be faster, but in fact the truth is that there are fewer enclosed transporters on the road which makes them harder to schedule. Besides this in most cases enclosed auto transport is more costly than open car carrier transport. The biggest advantage though is that the cars are protected from weather elements such as rain, hail, sun and the likes. So, enclosed car carrier offer a better protection for your vehicle while it’s been transported.

Thinking if open auto transport is right for your vehicle?

There are many reasons why Open transport might be the smarter option for you:

Faster Service with open transport.

More Options with open transport.It is very important for the client to be aware that open transport’s availability is a lot higher than enclosed carriers.

Open trailers are made to transport very versatile vehicles. If you have a modified SUV that is lifted or very big in general, it might take longer because enclosed trailers are very limited when it comes down to loading bigger vehicles.

Transporting your vehicle via open transport will help you save money, while shipping your vehicle in a safe and quick manner.

ENCLOSED TRANSPORT:

Enclosed transport comes with an extra degree in surety and safety.  If you want your vehicle to hit nothing else but the air inside the trailer, this is the option for you.

Timing

Enclosed transport requires a little bit more time as enclosed carriers are more rare then open car carriers.  Shipping with an enclosed trailer is usually double the cost that of of an open transport.  Insurance coverages are higher with enclosed which is why we usually employ our enclosed fleet for high end vehicles such as Super Cars or very Vintage Vehicles which require extra care. 

Auto Transport Insurance

The insurance requirements which we have for our enclosed transporters are unmatched.  Enclosed transport ensures protection against weather, road debris and other road related things that can get on your vehicle when using open transport.  Enclosed transporters use advanced trailers which have either a soft/hard shield that encloses your vehicle completely.  Enclosed car trailers usually carry 3-6 vehicles for normal paced shipping.

Learn more about open transport. 

Learn more about Enclosed transport. 

The majorioty of vehicles are transported open, meaning on an open trailer. Vehicles that are transported in enclosed carriers are  typically worth 75k or more. Other factors may be if the vehicle is restored or family owned/sentimental. There are many more open carriers than enclosed and they can only carry up to 3 cars at a time and pay much more for their insurance. So considering all of that, transported cars going enclosed are almost double the price.

Open auto transport is exposed to the elements and transported in a 7-9 car carrier truck called a stinger. Enclosed is NOT exposed to the elements or weather and you usually only get shipped with 3 other vehicles

Open Carrier: This is the most standard method of shipping a vehicle. Thousands of people and corporations move vehciles throughout the country daily using this method of transportation. This type of carrier works for any make and model, unless the vehicle has been significantly modified. 

Shipping a vehicle via open carrier means  your vehicle will be exposed to weather elements such as sun, rain, snow, wind and to the road elements such as dust and road debris. Though not common, this means your vehicle may be exposed to chips on the paint or anything else the weather or road might cause.

About 90% of all auto carriers in the United States are open. This means open carrier transport is faster to schedule and more efficient. Efficiency is when more vehicles are transported on a single haul. Most open carriers can fit anywhere between 7-10 vehicles.

Enclosed Carrier: Enclosed, also known as covered are typically preferred for high-end sports vehicles, luxury vehicles, antique & classic vehicles. Enclosed Carriers protect from the weather and road elements. However this will come at a price. Enclosed Carrier shipping is typically between 60-100% more expensive than a standard open carrier shipment. Reasons being there are less enclosed carriers on the road, enclosed trailers are typically more expensive, they hold less vehicles and they provide more protection.

We offer both open and enclosed transport.   An enclosed transport offers complete protection from the elements while in transport.  An open carrier while cheaper doesnot protect your vehicle from dirt and grime that can be picked up while in transport.

As a rule of thumb, I usually tell my clients that enclosed transport will cost about 50% more than open transport.

ENCLOSED CARRIERS

Collectors, Luxury, and Special EDs, we have a 1st Class spot for them all in our exclusive Hard Enclosure carriers. White glove service, electric lift, and premium insurance for $1,000,000 in case of unforeseen situations.

OPEN CARRIERS

Open car carrier Shipping represents over 60% of our every day provided services. Sedans, Coupe, Convertible, Classic or Modded, you name it, we ship it. Insurance usually goes on these trucks for up to $500.000. With an inspection done on pick-up and delivery.

Open Carrier

This is vehicle transport that does not protect your vehicle from the elements. Your vehicle is exposed to the weather, but the Auto Transport companies can fit more vehicles on their truck and this lowers the cost of shipping. Damages from the elements are rare but can occur. Most people are willing to take a small risk to save a considerable amount of money.

Enclosed Carrier

This is a Car Transporter that protects your vehicle from the elements. Going enclosed can protect your vehicle from weather, rocks and theft. In most cases, enclosed transport will cost double of what it would cost to ship on an open carrier. These companies have more experience with high-end vehicles. Enclosed companies tend to give more personable service for each car they ship.

 Open car shipping is used much more frequently and is the type of auto transport that you see on the highway where carriers are hauling vehicles on two decks that are exposed. Enclosed car shipping is when your vehicle is shipped in a trailer which has walls and a roof, they look like a larger version of a regular eighteen-wheeler. This method is recommended for luxury, exotic or classic cars.

An open carrier is something we are all familiar with as we've seen them on the highway. Chances are you've driven next to an enclosed quote carrier but didn't know it because they look very similar to a household goods van. An enclosed carrier has a car carrier rack inside so the vehicles can be loaded on the top and bottom racks and secured for safe transport. Typically the cost can be 1 1/2 times that of an open car carrier. 

Open transport is the most common method of shipping, used by dealerships to deliver new cars. Vehicles shipped on open carriers are safe and protected, but they are exposed to the elements, such as sun, rain, dust, etc. For extra protection, you can request that your car be top loaded.

Enclosed transport is ideal for high end, vintage, collector, or luxury cars. The vehicle is fully enclosed and protected from any road debris or damage due to weather conditions.

OPEN TRAILER can take up to 10 cars at the same time and is an the vehicles are visible  for everyone.

ENCLOSED can take betwee 2 to 3 cars, this trailler are good for motorcycle also.   

Open transport is the most common car shipping method. A car on this is exposed to outside elements such as rain, sun, dust, etc. It is a safe and secure way of transporting your vehicle. New cars are delivered to dealers by open trailer. With open car shipping you have the option to request top load for extra protection. Enclosed transport is often desired for owners of collector cars and used for classic, luxury, vintage, custom and sports cars. The vehicle is not exposed to weather elements and flying objects and prevents possible rock chips.

An open trailer is a unit that loads the vehicle where it is not protected from weather or debris, enclosed means it is inside of a trailer where it will not be open to debris and weather. Call us today at 888-307-0303 Visit us at https://www.freight4all.us/car-shipping

Open transport is your more economical and fastest available. Simply, there's more of n abundance of open carries vs enclosed. Whether you ship open  or enlcosed your vehicle will be assigned to a qualified carrier and will be insured. The only difference with enclosed is that your vehicle will be out out of the elements of weather. Another advantage of an enlcosed is that there will be no more than 3-4 vehicles at any given time..

In an open carroer you car will be exposed to the outside road elements. Enclosed shipping the car is place inside of  a trailer that protects the car form the outside elemenets and is enclosed inside the trailer. Some enclosed trailers hace hard sides and some have vynyl soft sides.

The main difference between an open and an enclosed carrier lies in the level of protection provided to your vehicle during transportation:

1. Open Carrier: Open carriers are typically large, flatbed trailers or car carriers that transport vehicles in an open-air environment. Vehicles are exposed to the elements during transit, including weather conditions such as rain, wind, and road debris. While open carriers offer cost-effective shipping solutions and can accommodate multiple vehicles at once, they provide less protection against potential damage from external factors.
2. Enclosed Carrier: Enclosed carriers are fully enclosed trailers or trucks with walls and a roof, providing a secure and protected environment for vehicles during transportation. Enclosed carriers shield vehicles from the elements, including inclement weather, dust, debris, and potential damage from road hazards. While enclosed carriers offer superior protection, they are typically more expensive than open carriers due to higher operating costs and limited vehicle capacity.

When deciding whether to ship your vehicle on an enclosed truck or an open trailer, consider the following factors:

1. Value of the Vehicle: If your vehicle is rare, vintage, high-end, or otherwise valuable, you may want to opt for an enclosed carrier to ensure maximum protection during transit.
2. Weather Conditions: If you're shipping your vehicle during inclement weather or through regions with harsh weather conditions, an enclosed carrier can provide added peace of mind by protecting your vehicle from rain, snow, hail, and other elements.
3. Condition of the Vehicle: If your vehicle is in pristine condition or has delicate paintwork, opting for an enclosed carrier can help minimize the risk of damage from road debris, scratches, or other hazards.
4. Budget: Enclosed carriers typically cost more than open carriers due to the added protection and limited vehicle capacity. If budget is a concern and your vehicle doesn't require maximum protection, an open carrier may be a more cost-effective option.

Ultimately, the decision to ship your vehicle on an enclosed truck or an open trailer depends on your priorities, budget, and the level of protection you desire for your vehicle during transportation. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.