Enclosed vs. Open Car Carrier: Which is Best for Your Vehicle?

Choosing the Right Carrier for Your Vehicle

When you book car transport, you generally have two choices: Open Carrier or Enclosed Carrier. The best choice depends on your budget, the value of your car, and your tolerance for the elements.

1. Open Carriers: The Popular Choice

Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective. They carry multiple cars on two decks. While they are safe, your car is exposed to weather, road dust, and small debris. It's the standard choice for most daily-drive sedans and SUVs.

2. Enclosed Carriers: The Premium Choice

Enclosed carriers protect your car from all external elements. They are essentially 'shipping containers on wheels'. This is the ideal choice for luxury cars, vintage models, or brand-new vehicles where the owner wants zero risk of paint chips from road debris.

3. Cost Comparison

Enclosed transport typically costs 30-50% more than open transport due to the specialized equipment and lower capacity of the trucks.