With enclosed auto transport & car shipping, you can protect your vehicle.

Transporting your vehicle, especially if it’s a high-end, classic, or collector’s item, involves more than just getting it from one place to another. It’s about ensuring it arrives in the same condition it left—scratch-free, dust-free, and weather-protected. That’s why enclosed auto transport has become the gold standard for car owners who value safety, security, and peace of mind.

Whether you’re relocating, attending a car show, or buying a vehicle from out of state, enclosed car shipping offers a layer of protection that open transport simply can’t match.

In this post, we’ll explain why enclosed transport is the best option for vehicle protection, how it works, what to expect in terms of cost, and how to choose the right shipping provider.

What Is Enclosed Auto Transport?

Enclosed auto transport is a method of vehicle shipping where your car is transported inside a fully covered trailer. Unlike open carriers, wahich expose vehicles to the elements, enclosed carriers offer full protection from weather, road debris, and other external hazards.

This method is especially suited for:

• Luxury vehicles

• Exotic sports cars

• Classic and antique cars

• Motorcycles and custom builds

• Cars with custom paint jobs or modifications

• High-value or sentimental vehicles

Why Choose Enclosed Car Shipping?

Choosing enclosed car shipping is like choosing first-class for your vehicle. Here's why:

1. Weather Protection

From blazing summer sun to snowstorms, open transport leaves vehicles vulnerable to all weather conditions. Enclosed carriers eliminate this risk, keeping your vehicle shielded from rain, hail, wind, snow, and UV damage.

2. Road Debris & Dirt Prevention

Vehicles transported on open carriers can accumulate dust, mud, or even suffer from chips caused by flying debris. Enclosed shipping prevents this entirely by keeping your car in a sealed environment.

3. Enhanced Security

High-value vehicles are often targets for theft or vandalism during transport. Enclosed carriers hide your car from view and reduce risk by limiting access to the vehicle during stops.

4. Specialized Handling

Most enclosed auto transport providers use lift gates, air-ride suspension, and soft straps to ensure your vehicle is handled gently throughout the shipping process. These features minimize vibrations and stress on the vehicle's body and suspension.

5. Higher Insurance Coverage

Because enclosed transport typically deals with high-value vehicles, insurance coverage is usually higher than that offered for open carriers. This gives you extra financial peace of mind.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Which One Is Right for You?

While open transport is more common and cost-effective, it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as enclosed shipping.

If your vehicle is a daily driver and you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, open transport may be fine. But if your car is rare, expensive, or irreplaceable, the added cost of enclosed car shipping is a small price to pay for full protection.

Who Needs Enclosed Auto Transport?

While enclosed auto transport can be used by anyone, it’s particularly ideal for:

Classic Car Collectors

Vintage cars are not only valuable—they're often fragile and irreplaceable. Enclosed transport ensures they stay safe and showroom-ready.

Dealerships & Auto Shows

Transporting high-end vehicles to buyers or events demands pristine delivery. Enclosed shipping ensures that vehicles arrive ready to impress.

Relocating Owners of Luxury Cars

Moving across states? Don’t risk your luxury car on a cross-country drive or open trailer. Enclosed shipping is safer and more convenient.

Owners of Custom or Modified Vehicles

Cars with unique paint jobs, lowered suspensions, or aftermarket parts benefit from the careful loading and handling that comes with enclosed carriers.

How Much Does Enclosed Car Shipping Cost?

The cost of enclosed car shipping varies based on several factors:

• Distance – Longer routes generally cost more, but you may get better per-mile rates.

• Vehicle Size/Weight – Larger vehicles take up more space and may cost more.

• Route Popularity – Remote locations may require custom routing and pricing.

• Seasonal Demand – Prices can fluctuate during peak moving seasons (spring and summer).

• Type of Enclosed Trailer – Hard-sided trailers usually cost more than soft-sided ones.

Example Pricing (Estimates):

• Enclosed transport from New York to Florida: $1,200 – $1,800

• Enclosed transport from California to Texas: $1,000 – $1,600

• Enclosed cross-country shipping (e.g., California to Florida): $1,800 – $2,500

Remember, while the price is higher than open shipping, you're paying for premium protection and peace of mind.

What to Expect During the Process

Here’s a step-by-step look at how the enclosed transport process typically works:

1. Request a Quote
   Contact a reputable carrier and provide details such as vehicle make/model, pick-up/drop-off locations, and desired shipping dates.

2. Schedule the Pick-Up
   Choose a date that works for you. Some carriers offer door-to-door service, while others may use nearby terminals.

3. Vehicle Inspection
   Before loading, the carrier will inspect the vehicle for existing damage and create a Bill of Lading for records.

4. Secure Transport
   The vehicle is carefully loaded using a lift gate (if available) and secured with soft straps to prevent damage.

5. In-Transit Updates
   Reputable companies offer tracking or status updates during the trip.

6. Delivery & Final Inspection
   Once the vehicle arrives, another inspection is performed to ensure no damage occurred during transit.

How to Choose the Right Enclosed Auto Transport Provider

Not all carriers are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• FMCSA Licensed & Insured – Only work with legally registered companies.

• Experience with Enclosed Transport – Make sure the company specializes in high-value vehicle shipping.

• Positive Reviews – Look for consistent customer satisfaction on platforms like Google, BBB, or Trustpilot.

• Transparent Pricing – Avoid companies with hidden fees or vague estimates.

• Responsive Customer Service – You should be able to contact the company for updates or questions throughout the process.

Final Thoughts

Choosing enclosed auto transport is about more than just moving your vehicle—it's about protecting your investment. Whether you're moving a classic Mustang, a Lamborghini, or a custom-built hot rod, you deserve the assurance that your car will arrive in perfect condition.

Enclosed car shipping offers weatherproofing, security, expert handling, and high insurance coverage that open transport can’t match. So the next time you need to move a car that truly matters to you, make the safe choice—choose enclosed.