Introduction
Is enclosed car shipping for you? Learn about open vs. enclosed, costs, and expert tips for protecting your classic or luxury vehicle.
When your vehicle is more than just transportation-a classic, a luxury model, or a cherished project-sending it on an open trailer can feel risky. Weather, road debris, and unexpected hazards threaten the care you’ve invested.
Enclosed car shipping solves this by offering superior protection and peace of mind. At Autos Mover, we know the value of safeguarding what matters, which is why this guide delivers expert insights to help you understand its benefits and navigate the process with confidence.
What is an Enclosed Car Hauler?
An enclosed car hauler (or enclosed car carrier) is a specialized trailer that transports vehicles in a fully covered space-essentially a secure garage on wheels. Unlike open carriers that leave cars exposed to weather and road debris, enclosed haulers provide complete protection throughout the journey.
Vehicles are carefully secured using soft-strap tie-downs to avoid scratches or pressure damage during transit. There are two main types of enclosed haulers:
- Hard-Side Haulers: Solid-walled trailers offering the highest level of security and protection. Ideal for luxury, exotic, or priceless classic cars.
- Soft-Side Haulers: Trailers with a durable vinyl or canvas covering. While they shield against weather, they provide less security compared to hard-side haulers.
This method is the gold standard for transporting classic cars, custom builds, luxury models, and electric vehicles (EVs)-which require enhanced care and handling.
Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping: The Critical Choice
The choice comes down to price vs. protection. Open shipping is cheaper but exposes your car to weather and road debris. Enclosed shipping costs more but offers maximum safety-ideal for high-value vehicles.
| Feature | Open Car Shipping | Enclosed Car Shipping |
| Protection | Exposed to weather, road debris, and dust. | Fully protected from all external elements. |
| Cost | Typically 30-60% less expensive than enclosed. | Premium cost, reflecting the enhanced protection. |
| Availability | Widely available, with more carriers and frequent routes. | Less common, requiring more lead time to book. |
| Typical Vehicles | Standard sedans, SUVs, and everyday vehicles. | Classic, luxury, exotic, and high-value cars. |
| Security | Vehicles are visible and accessible. | Vehicle is secured and out of sight, reducing risk of theft or vandalism. |
| Insurance | Standard coverage (e.g., $250k-$300k). | Higher coverage (e.g., up to $3M), reflecting vehicle value. |
The True Cost of Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed car shipping typically ranges from $800 to $3,000+, depending on several key factors:
Route & Distance
This is the most significant factor. Shipping a car on a high-traffic route, like a move from a major hub like Fort Lauderdale to New York (car shipping fl to ny), will be more efficient and therefore less expensive than a less common route to a rural area.
The longer the distance, the more the cost, but the per-mile rate often decreases for longer hauls.
For example, a specialized, long-distance move like how much to ship a car to hawaii will involve both land and sea transport, driving the cost up significantly compared to a cross-country trip.
Vehicle Size & Weight
Larger, heavier vehicles (SUVs, trucks, EVs) take more space and add extra weight, raising the shipping price compared to smaller sports cars.
Season & Demand
Peak moving times-summer, holidays, and seasonal collector moves-push rates higher. Winter routes also affect enclosed transport due to weather challenges.
How Technology and EVs are Reshaping the Market
The enclosed car transport market is experiencing a significant shift, with a global value of over $724 million in 2023. This growth is being fueled by two major trends that are shaping the future of the industry.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) are a Game-Changer
More electric vehicles are shipped in enclosed carriers for safety and handling reasons:
- Battery Safety: Due to the potential fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries, many EVs are classified as hazardous materials by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- Weight & Low Clearance: EVs are notably heavier than their gas counterparts, requiring fewer cars per hauler. Additionally, many high-end EVs have a very low ground clearance, necessitating specialized hydraulic lift gates for safe loading and unloading.
The Rise of Digital Transparency
Technology is making the entire enclosed car shipping process more efficient and trustworthy. Today’s best enclosed car transport companies use:
- Real-time GPS Tracking: You can track your vehicle’s exact location from pickup to delivery via an online portal.
- Digital Documentation: The Bill of Lading (BOL) and other paperwork are now digitized, providing a clear, unalterable record of your vehicle’s condition.
This integration of technology provides an extra layer of peace of mind, allowing you to monitor your valuable investment every step of the way.
Choosing Your Partner: The Broker vs. Direct Carrier Debate
This is a critical distinction that most people overlook. The auto transport industry is primarily made up of two types of companies:
- Auto Transport Brokers: These companies act as a middleman, connecting customers with a network of vetted carriers. They don’t own the trucks themselves.
- Direct Carriers (or “Ship a Car Direct” companies): These are the actual trucking companies that own their fleet of enclosed haulers.
A trusted broker like Autos Mover connects you with a wide carrier network, giving you faster scheduling, greater flexibility, and competitive rates for enclosed transport.
Finding the Best Enclosed Auto Transport Company
Entrusting your luxury car transport to a company, requires careful research. At Autos Mover, we believe in full transparency so you can make a confident choice.
- Read Reviews: Look beyond the glowing reviews on their own website. Check third-party sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google. Consistent positive ship a car direct reviews are a good sign.
- Ask About Technology: Inquire about their use of real-time tracking and digital documentation. These are hallmarks of a modern, reliable, and transparent company.
Why Choose Autos Mover Enclosed Car Shipping
- Premium Protection – Keep your luxury, classic, or high-value vehicle safe from weather, debris, and road hazards inside a fully enclosed carrier.
- Specialized Handling – From soft-strap tie-downs to hydraulic lift gates, we use the right equipment for vehicles with low clearance, EVs, and collector cars.
- Expert Team – Our certified professionals understand the care high-value vehicles require, ensuring secure loading, transport, and delivery.
- Peace of Mind – Enjoy upfront pricing, full insurance coverage, and real-time GPS tracking your car’s safety is always our top priority.
With years of proven experience, Autos Mover is the trusted choice for enclosed car shipping nationwide.
FAQs about Enclosed Car Shipping
What is the meaning of enclosed vehicle?
An enclosed vehicle, in the context of transport, simply means the vehicle is being transported inside a fully covered trailer, protected from the outside elements. It is the opposite of an open-air carrier.
Is it safe to leave personal items inside my car?
No. Carriers are not insured for personal belongings inside your vehicle. It is a major risk and a common point of dispute. Remove all valuables, electronics, and any items that are not factory-installed.
Can I ship a car to another state using enclosed transport?
Yes, enclosed car shipping is a popular option for state-to-state and cross-country moves, especially for high-value or classic cars. Many companies specialize in long-haul routes, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely at its new destination.
Does the condition of my vehicle impact the cost?
Yes, it does. If your vehicle is not operational or has a low ground clearance, it requires special equipment like a hydraulic lift gate for loading and unloading, which can increase the cost. Be sure to inform the company upfront if your car is non-running.
A Quick Recap
Choosing enclosed car shipping means paying for peace of mind. Though costlier, it’s a smart investment to protect your valuable vehicle. With the right company and proper preparation, your car will arrive in flawless condition.
For a quote tailored to your specific needs, you can trust the experts at Autos Mover to guide you through the process.
