When booking car shipping, one of the first decisions customers face is choosing between open transport and enclosed transport. Both options are reliable, but they serve different needs, budgets, and vehicle types. Understanding the differences helps ensure you get the best value and the right level of protection for your car.
Open car transport is the most common and affordable option. Around 90% of transported vehicles in the U.S. move on open carriers. These trailers can hold 7–10 vehicles, making them cost-efficient and widely available. If you’re shipping a standard sedan, SUV, or daily-use vehicle, open transport offers excellent reliability at the lowest price. Your vehicle will be exposed to weather, but damage is extremely rare, and carriers are fully insured.
Enclosed car transport, on the other hand, provides a higher level of protection. These carriers are covered on all sides, shielding vehicles from rain, snow, road debris, and harsh weather. Enclosed transport is ideal for exotic cars, classics, luxury vehicles, or newly purchased high-value cars you want extra peace of mind for. Because enclosed carriers haul fewer vehicles and offer premium service, prices are typically 30–60% higher than open transport.
Customers ustomers increasingly choose enclosed transport for electric vehicles (EVs), luxury SUVs, and sports cars due to rising values and limited dealership inventory. Meanwhile, open transport remains the best option for everyday vehicles and bulk dealership moves.
So, which option should you choose? If you want the most affordable and efficient service, open transport is the smart choice. If you value maximum protection and reduced exposure to outdoor conditions, enclosed transport is worth the premium. At FreightRep LLC, we provide both options and help customers choose the best fit based on vehicle type, budget, route, and timing.