The Ultimate Guide to Enclosed Car Shipping Services
Enclosed Car Shipping is the premium method of transporting vehicles across cities, states, or even across the country. This specialized service uses enclosed trailers to provide superior protection for automobiles during transit. Whether you’re shipping a classic car, a luxury model, a vintage collectible, or a high-performance sports vehicle, enclosed car shipping offers peace of mind by safeguarding your investment from weather elements, road debris, and prying eyes.
Why Choose Enclosed Car Shipping?
When it comes to transporting a valuable or sensitive vehicle, the method of shipment matters just as much as the logistics. Unlike open transport which exposes vehicles to outdoor elements and potential damage enclosed shipping places the vehicle inside a fully enclosed trailer, offering a safe and secure environment throughout the journey. This option is particularly favored by car enthusiasts, dealerships, auction buyers, and individuals relocating rare or high-end automobiles.
Protection Against Weather and Hazards
One of the primary benefits of enclosed shipping is protection from the elements. Rain, snow, sleet, hail, and UV rays can all damage a vehicle’s paint, trim, and overall appearance. Additionally, open-road conditions such as flying debris, rocks, or accidental oil spills can lead to scratches, chips, or more severe damage. Enclosed trailers shield vehicles completely, ensuring they arrive in the same condition they were picked up.
This is especially important for vehicles with custom paint jobs, exposed engines, or low ground clearance. Even minor damage could cost thousands in repairs or devalue a collectible car.
Enhanced Security Features
With enclosed car shipping, your vehicle is not only protected from the environment but also from theft or vandalism. Many enclosed transport trailers are equipped with advanced security features like GPS tracking, security locks, and limited access. Since the cars are concealed within a trailer, there’s less risk of attracting unwanted attention on the road.
Additionally, professional shipping companies often limit the number of vehicles per trip when using enclosed trailers sometimes transporting as few as one or two cars at a time. This exclusivity further minimizes the risk of accidental damage and speeds up delivery times.
Ideal for High-Value Vehicles
Luxury, exotic, and classic cars often require special handling during transport. These types of vehicles may have unique specifications, delicate parts, or irreplaceable components that demand careful attention. Enclosed transport drivers are typically experienced in handling high-value cars and are trained in loading and unloading procedures that minimize risk. Hydraulic lift gates and soft tie-down straps are commonly used to prevent damage.
For owners of collectible vehicles, choosing enclosed transport is not just about convenience it’s about preserving history, craftsmanship, and value.
Types of Enclosed Trailers
There are generally two types of enclosed trailers: soft-sided and hard-sided.
- Soft-sided trailers offer a canvas-like covering and are typically more affordable. While they offer decent protection from the weather, they’re less secure than hard-sided trailers.
- Hard-sided trailers provide the maximum protection and are considered the top-tier choice. They are ideal for shipping extremely valuable or fragile vehicles, as they offer a rigid shell to prevent any external impact.
Costs of Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed shipping typically costs 30% to 60% more than open car shipping. However, the extra investment is often worth it for vehicle owners who prioritize protection. Factors influencing the final price include:
- Distance of shipment
- Type and size of the vehicle
- Route popularity and accessibility
- Time of year (seasonal demand)
- Insurance coverage required
Insurance and Peace of Mind
Reputable enclosed car shipping companies offer comprehensive insurance coverage for each vehicle in transit. Always check the company’s insurance policy and ensure it aligns with your vehicle’s value. Some owners may also choose to purchase additional coverage for rare or highly valuable cars.
Final Thoughts
If your vehicle is a significant investment, a rare model, or simply holds sentimental value, enclosed car shipping is the best transport solution available. While it may come at a higher cost compared to open carriers, the benefits far outweigh the expense especially when preserving the integrity and value of your car is a top priority.
