Open Versus Enclosed Trailer Transport – What to Know

Automobile transport companies are capable of shipping your vehicle to any city in the United States. How they transport your car, and the services they offer will vary between companies. While the vast majority of automobile transport companies will transport your vehicle via a tractor-trailer, but depending on the transport company you select, you may have the choice between either open-air or enclosed transport. This article will discuss the pros and cons of both methods.

Open Transport

When an automobile transport company states that they move your vehicle by way of open-air trucks, it employs the kind of carrier that you typically see moving vehicles. This kind of truck is usually between 75 and 80 feet long and tows a two-level trailer with cars on the top and bottom. This type does not have sides or a roof, so the vehicles are unprotected and susceptible to damage at all times.

Pros and Cons of Open Transport

• Pros- Cheapest transport method, greater visibility allows the driver to inspect the vehicles quickly while in transit, and because this trailer weighs less than an enclosed one, it is more fuel-efficient and a better option for the environment. Approximately 90% of all automobile transport companies utilize open transport trailers. It means that open-air transport trailers are typically faster and easier to schedule. This process is also more efficient. In this case, efficiency means that they can transport more vehicles with a single haul. Most open transport trailers can haul between 7 to 10 cars.
• Cons- Your vehicle is continuously exposed to the environment, which increases the potential of damage. This option is also less secure.

Enclosed Transport

An enclosed transport features a trailer that is fully enclosed that provides superior protection and security for your vehicle.

Pros and Cons of Enclosed Transport

• Pros- Transporting your vehicle in an enclosed trailer is typically the ideal shipping option for luxury or antique vehicles because of its level of protection and security. It is designed to protect against extreme weather conditions and damaging road debris.
• Cons- The downsides of an enclosed transport trailer are limited access by the driver to perform inspections of the vehicles during transport, reduced fuel efficiency, and they are dramatically more expensive than open transport trailers.

Insurance

All automobile transport companies are required to have adequate insurance to cover the vehicles that they are transporting. It is essential to inquire about the level of coverage that the company offers. If the coverage is insufficient, then you should attempt to increase it. Keep in mind that some companies may not have the level of insurance that you desire. It is also ideal to check with your automobile insurance company to see what your policy covers.

To choose the transport option that is best for you, think about the level of security that your vehicle requires. If you will be transporting a collector’s or antique car, it is probably best to be safe than sorry and opt for an enclosed transport to ship your vehicle. Conversely, if you will be transporting an older car, then an open-air transport trailer makes sense. No matter which method you choose, it is ideal to get multiple quotes (get free quotes here) to ensure you are getting a fair rate. The company you select should be licensed, bonded, and insured.