Equipment Guide
Choosing Between Open and Enclosed Transport
Open and enclosed transport both move a vehicle from one point to another on a multi-level or single trailer, but the equipment, exposure, and typical use cases differ. Neither option is universally right; the better fit depends on the vehicle, the season, and your own priorities. This guide compares the two side by side so you can decide with your carrier which makes sense for your shipment.
How the equipment differs
Open transport uses a multi-level trailer that carries several vehicles at once, exposed to the outside air, similar to the trucks that deliver new cars to dealerships. Enclosed transport uses a covered trailer, fully sheltering the vehicles inside from weather and road debris, and generally carries fewer vehicles per load. Because enclosed equipment is more specialized and less common on any given route, availability can be more limited and lead times can differ from open transport. Confirm current specifics with your carrier for your exact route and timing.
Exposure to weather and road debris
On an open carrier, the vehicle is exposed to rain, road spray, dust, and debris kicked up by traffic during the trip. This exposure is normal for the vast majority of vehicles shipped this way and is the same method used to deliver most new vehicles nationwide. Enclosed transport shields the vehicle from these elements entirely, which is why it's more often chosen for vehicles where owners want to minimize any exposure regardless of the vehicle's value.
Typical vehicle types for each
Open transport handles the overwhelming majority of shipments, including everyday sedans, SUVs, and trucks, because it's efficient and widely available. Enclosed transport is more commonly chosen for vehicles the owner wants to keep out of the elements during transit, such as classic cars, exotic or high-performance vehicles, or vehicles being delivered in show-ready condition. That said, the choice ultimately comes down to what matters to you as the owner, not a fixed rule about vehicle type.
Loading and ride height considerations
Enclosed trailers are sometimes better suited to very low ground-clearance vehicles because of how they're loaded, using ramps or lift gates depending on the specific trailer. If your vehicle has a modified suspension or unusually low clearance, mention this when getting quotes so the carrier can confirm the right equipment and loading method for your specific car.
Availability and scheduling differences
Because there are more open carriers operating on most routes, open transport generally offers more scheduling flexibility and a larger pool of available trucks on a given lane. Enclosed transport, with fewer trucks in the network overall, can mean more limited availability on certain routes or dates. If your dates are firm, ask about current availability for your chosen equipment type on your specific route before finalizing plans.
What each option means for pricing
Enclosed transport generally costs more than open transport because it involves more specialized equipment and typically fewer vehicles per load, spreading costs across a smaller group. Open transport, being the standard and most widely used method, is generally the more economical choice. Neither number can be stated precisely without a reviewed quote for your specific vehicle, route, and timing, so treat this as a directional comparison rather than a fixed rule.
Making the decision for your situation
Ask yourself what matters most: is this an everyday vehicle where efficient, reliable transport is the priority, or a vehicle where you want to minimize weather exposure regardless of cost? Consider also your timeline flexibility, since enclosed transport may take longer to schedule on some routes due to lower truck availability. Discuss your specific vehicle and priorities with your carrier so they can recommend the equipment that actually fits your situation, rather than assuming based on vehicle type alone.
When you are ready, request a written quote or contact us with questions about your specific vehicle and route.
Velocity Auto Transport Group LLC is an auto transport brokerage. We arrange vehicle transportation through qualified motor carriers and coordinate your shipment from quote to delivery — the carrier assigned to your vehicle operates the truck.
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