The Different Types of Auto Transport Carriers: Open vs. Enclosed

When preparing to ship a vehicle, one of the first decisions you must make is choosing the type of carrier. Is “Open Transport” safe? Is “Enclosed Transport” worth the extra cost? The choice between these two methods affects price, timeline, insurance limits, and the level of protection your vehicle receives.

At SouthWest Auto Transport, we transport thousands of vehicles every year using both methods. The right choice depends entirely on the vehicle being moved and your personal budget. Complete the form on this page or call 1-800-590-6492 to get quotes for both options side by side.

Option 1: Open Auto Transport — The Industry Standard

Open auto transport accounts for roughly 90–95% of all commercial car movements in the United States. If you have seen a large truck on the interstate carrying a load of new cars to a dealership, you have seen an open carrier in action.

How It Works

These trailers are typically 75–80 feet long and feature two levels of metal ramps. A standard “stinger-steer” open carrier hauls 8–10 vehicles at once. Cars are driven onto the ramps and secured using chains or wheel straps. Because the trailer is open, the vehicles are exposed to the air.

The Advantages

• Cost-Effective: With up to 10 cars sharing the cost of fuel, insurance, and driver labor, open transport is the most affordable option by a wide margin.
• Faster Booking: With thousands of open carriers on the road at any given moment, it is easier to find a truck on your desired dates.
• Proven Safety: Dealerships ship brand-new factory-fresh cars via open transport. If manufacturers trust it for new inventory, it is perfectly safe for your daily driver.

The Trade-Offs

The primary drawback is exposure. Your vehicle will encounter the same elements as if you were driving it: rain, sun, dust, and road grime. While rare, there is a minor risk of road debris — such as a small rock chip from a passing vehicle on the lower deck.

Option 2: Enclosed Auto Transport — The Premium Choice

Enclosed auto transport is a specialized service designed for high-value vehicles. These trailers look like standard semi-truck box trailers from the outside but are equipped inside with advanced racking systems to hold cars securely.

Types of Enclosed Trailers

• Soft-Side Carriers: Rigid roofs and front/rear panels with heavy-duty vinyl tarp sides. Lighter and slightly more affordable than hard-side, with good weather and rock protection.
• Hard-Side Carriers: Solid steel or fiberglass walls — essentially a mobile garage. The preferred method for multi-million dollar collections and museum transfers.

The Advantages

• Total Weather Protection: Your car arrives as clean as it left. No rain, snow, road salt, or debris will touch the paint.
• Hydraulic Liftgates: Many enclosed trailers feature hydraulic liftgates that allow cars with extremely low ground clearance (Lamborghinis, race cars) to be loaded horizontally without scraping the front bumper.
• Higher Insurance Limits: Enclosed carriers typically carry $1,000,000 or more in cargo insurance, versus the $100,000–$250,000 standard for open carriers.

The Trade-Offs

Enclosed transport typically costs 30–50% more than open transport. Furthermore, with fewer enclosed trucks on the road, it may take an extra few days to secure a spot for your specific route — advance booking is strongly recommended.

Detailed Comparison Table

Feature	Open Transport	Enclosed Transport
Cost	Economy (lowest price)	Premium (30–50% higher)
Protection	Exposed to weather and road	Fully shielded
Availability	High (fast dispatch)	Low (book in advance)
Ground Clearance	Standard ramps	Hydraulic liftgates available
Insurance	Standard ($100k–$250k)	High value ($500k–$1M+)

Which Method Should You Choose?

Preparing Your Vehicle for Either Method

• Wash the Vehicle: Ensures an accurate inspection at pickup
• Remove Personal Items: Carriers are not licensed to haul household goods
• Check for Fluid Leaks: Leaks on an enclosed trailer's wood floor can result in cleaning fees charged to you
• Disable Alarms: Prevents battery drain during the trip

Why Choose SouthWest Auto Transport?

Whether you choose the economy of open transport or the white-glove service of enclosed, SouthWest Auto Transport has you covered. We have access to a massive vetted network in both categories. We check insurance certificates, safety ratings, and equipment capabilities to ensure your vehicle is in good hands every mile of the journey.

• Luxury & Classic Car Transport: The Ultimate Protection Guide
• Top-Load Placement: The Smart Middle Ground
• Understanding Auto Transport Insurance

Not sure which method is right for you? Call us now at 1-800-590-6492 24 hours a day or complete the form on this page. You can request quotes for both open and enclosed transport side-by-side and see the price difference for your specific route.