When it comes to car shipping, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to choose open auto transport or enclosed auto transport. Both methods are safe, widely used, and offered by most professional auto transport companies. However, the right choice depends on your budget, the type of vehicle you own, and the level of protection you need.

For example, someone shipping a standard sedan across states may prefer open transport for its affordability. On the other hand, a collector moving a classic or luxury vehicle might want the extra protection of an enclosed trailer.

In this guide, we’ll break down what each option means, how they compare in terms of safety, cost, and convenience, and help you decide which method is best for your situation.

What Is Open Auto Transport?

Open auto transport is the most common method of car shipping in the United States. In this option, vehicles are transported on an open trailer that typically carries 7–10 cars at once.

Because it’s widely available and efficient, open transport is usually the most affordable choice for customers. In fact, the majority of cars shipped in the U.S. every year are moved this way.

Key features of open auto transport:

• Vehicles are exposed to weather, dust, and road debris.
• Carriers can load multiple vehicles at once, lowering costs.
• Pickup and delivery times are often faster because open carriers are more common on the road.
• It’s safe and reliable, but not ideal for luxury or high-value vehicles.

Open transport is a great option if you’re shipping a standard car, SUV, or truck and want to balance affordability with convenience.

What Is Enclosed Auto Transport?

Enclosed auto transport is a premium shipping option where vehicles are transported inside a covered trailer. Unlike open carriers, enclosed trailers shield cars from outside elements like weather, dust, and road debris. Because of this added protection, enclosed transport is especially popular among owners of:

• Classic and vintage cars
• Exotic and luxury vehicles
• High-value or collectible cars
• Motorcycles and specialty vehicles

Since enclosed carriers typically hold fewer vehicles (2–6 instead of 7–10), availability is more limited and the cost is higher. Customers can expect to pay 30–50% more for enclosed transport compared to open shipping.

Key features of enclosed auto transport:

• Maximum protection from weather and debris
• Ideal for expensive or delicate vehicles
• Fewer vehicles shipped per trip
• Limited availability, which may affect scheduling
• Higher price compared to open carriers

Enclosed transport provides peace of mind for anyone who wants the safest and most secure car shipping method.

Pros and Cons of Open Transport

Before deciding, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of open car shipping.

✅ Pros:

• Lower cost – Open auto transport is the most affordable option.
• Wide availability – More open carriers operate across the country, making scheduling easier.
• Faster pickup times – Because open carriers are so common, you’re more likely to get your car shipped quickly.
• Safe and reliable – Despite being exposed, open transport is trusted by dealerships and private customers every day.

❌ Cons:

• Exposure to elements – Vehicles are not covered, so they may encounter rain, snow, dust, or road debris.
• Less ideal for luxury or collectible cars – High-value vehicles are better protected with enclosed transport.

Open auto transport is the go-to choice for everyday vehicles because it’s affordable, accessible, and efficient. However, it may not be the right solution if you’re shipping a rare or expensive car.

Pros and Cons of Enclosed Transport

Like open transport, enclosed auto transport has its own advantages and trade-offs. It’s considered the premium option for vehicle shipping.

✅ Pros:

• Maximum protection – Vehicles are shielded from weather, dust, and road debris.
• Best for valuable cars – Perfect for luxury, exotic, or classic vehicles.
• Added security – Fewer vehicles on board mean more attention to each car.
• Peace of mind – Owners know their vehicle is shipped with the highest level of care.

❌ Cons:

• Higher cost – Typically 30–50% more expensive than open transport.
• Limited availability – Fewer enclosed carriers operate, so scheduling can take longer.
• Not necessary for all cars – Everyday vehicles usually don’t require enclosed shipping.

Enclosed auto transport is the right choice if your top priority is protection and security, especially for cars with high financial or sentimental value.

Cost Differences: Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping

Price is often the deciding factor when choosing between open and enclosed auto transport.

• Open transport: $600–$1,200 (average for cross-country shipping)
• Enclosed transport: $900–$2,000+ depending on distance and vehicle type

The exact price depends on distance, vehicle size, pickup location, and season. For example, shipping a standard sedan from New York to Florida might cost around $750 on an open carrier but closer to $1,200 with enclosed shipping.

If you’re looking for the most affordable option for a standard vehicle, open transport is usually the best fit. If your vehicle is rare, expensive, or irreplaceable, the extra cost of enclosed transport is well worth it.

Which Option Is Best for You?

So, how do you decide between open and enclosed auto transport? Here’s a simple guide:

• Choose Open Transport if:

  • You’re shipping a standard car, SUV, or truck.
  • You want the most affordable option.

  • You need faster pickup and delivery times.

     

• Choose Enclosed Transport if:

  • You own a classic, luxury, or exotic car.
  • You want maximum protection during transit.

  • You’re comfortable paying more for added security.

     

At the end of the day, both methods are safe and widely trusted in the auto transport industry. The right choice depends on your vehicle type, budget, and peace of mind.

👉 Ready to ship your car? Get your free instant quote from Xpress Auto Transportation today and choose the shipping method that’s best for you!