Car shipping guide
Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping
Open transport usually costs less and suits most everyday vehicles. Enclosed transport adds protection from weather and road debris and can be worth considering for classics, exotics, and cars with valuable finishes. Your vehicle’s condition, loading needs, budget, and pickup window all matter.
What is open car shipping?
Open car shipping moves your vehicle on an unenclosed trailer, often alongside other vehicles. Your car is exposed to weather, dust, road spray, and debris during the trip.
Choose open transport when:
- You’re shipping a daily driver, family car, SUV, or standard pickup
- Keeping the shipping cost down is a priority
- You’re comfortable with outdoor exposure and a car that may arrive dirty
Open transport generally offers a broader choice of carriers. Availability still depends on your route, dates, and vehicle.
What is enclosed car shipping?
Enclosed car shipping moves your vehicle inside a covered trailer. The enclosure provides an additional barrier against weather and road debris during transit.
Consider enclosed transport when:
- You’re moving a collector car, restored classic, exotic, or show car
- Protecting a custom or valuable finish is a priority
- Reducing outdoor exposure matters enough to justify a higher quote
Enclosed trailers and loading equipment vary. Ask which trailer and loading method the proposed carrier will use. Enclosed transport reduces exposure; it does not guarantee a damage-free shipment.
How do price and availability compare?
Open transport usually costs less. Enclosed transport typically costs more, and fewer enclosed carriers may be available for your route and pickup window.
The actual difference depends on distance, season, vehicle size and condition, timing, and current carrier availability. Compare quotes for the same vehicle, route, and dates rather than relying on a fixed price difference. Learn more about what affects car shipping cost.
If timing is tight, tell us your earliest pickup date and any firm deadline. Ask what pickup and delivery windows are available before choosing a carrier.
Low clearance, non-running, or exotic? Ask first.
Trailer type is only part of the decision. Share these details before accepting a transport arrangement:
- Low clearance: Give the ground clearance and describe lowered suspension, splitters, or other modifications. Ask whether the carrier’s ramps or liftgate can accommodate the vehicle.
- Non-running vehicles: Explain whether the car starts, rolls, steers, and brakes. Mention locked wheels, missing keys, or leaks. Ask what loading equipment is needed and whether it changes the quote.
- Classics and exotics: Identify unusual dimensions, handling instructions, modifications, and the vehicle’s value. Ask about the carrier’s experience with similar vehicles and any coverage limitations.
Suitability depends on the specific carrier and equipment. Confirm those details before booking.
What should you check with either option?
Ask for the carrier’s identity and insurance details. Review applicable policy limits, exclusions, deductibles, and the claim process. An enclosed trailer alone does not establish what insurance covers.
At pickup and delivery, inspect the vehicle with the driver and take clear photos. Keep copies of the inspection reports and record any new damage on the delivery report. Notify the carrier and your BladeHaul agent promptly if you notice a problem.
Compare your options with BladeHaul
BladeHaul Auto Transport LLC is a Texas LLC and an FMCSA-authorized property broker, MC-85480782 (USDOT 6803480). We arrange shipments with independent motor carriers. The carrier you approve provides the truck and performs the physical transportation.
We confirm the carrier, total price, and booking details in writing before any payment. A free quote doesn't book anything. You review and sign a transport agreement first. Learn how booking and payment work.
Prefer email? Send your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle year/make/model, condition, and preferred dates to info@bladehaul.com. Ask us to compare open and enclosed options for your shipment, or contact BladeHaul with your questions.