When booking auto transport, one of the biggest choices you’ll face is open vs. enclosed trailer shipping. Open transport is more common and affordable, but enclosed transport offers extra protection — at a higher price. So the question is: is enclosed transport worth the extra cost?
At Abbott Shippers, we’ve helped customers ship everything from daily drivers to rare exotics. Here’s what you need to know to decide if enclosed transport is right for you.
What Is Enclosed Transport?
Enclosed transport means your vehicle is shipped inside a fully covered trailer. Unlike open carriers, which expose vehicles to the elements, enclosed trailers provide complete protection from weather, debris, and road hazards.
✔️ Shielded from rain, snow, and sun
✔️ Extra security for high-value vehicles
✔️ Often equipped with hydraulic lift gates for low-clearance cars
How Much Does Enclosed Transport Cost?
On average, enclosed transport costs 25–50% more than open transport.
- Open Transport: $0.50 – $1.00 per mile
- Enclosed Transport: $1.25 – $2.00 per mile
👉 Example: A 1,000-mile shipment might cost $700–$900 open vs. $1,400–$1,800 enclosed.
When Is Enclosed Transport Worth It?
Enclosed transport is the smart choice when:
✔️ Shipping a classic car, luxury car, or exotic vehicle
✔️ Moving a vehicle to an auction, car show, or collector buyer
✔️ Protecting a high-value or sentimental vehicle
✔️ Shipping during harsh weather seasons (snow, storms, or extreme heat)
👉 If your vehicle’s value (market or sentimental) outweighs the added cost, enclosed transport is worth every penny.
When Open Transport May Be Enough
Open transport works well for:
✔️ Standard cars, trucks, and SUVs
✔️ Used or commuter vehicles
✔️ Budget-conscious customers
✔️ Flexible shipping timelines
👉 Most vehicles on the road today are shipped via open transport without issue.
✅ Final Thoughts
Enclosed transport costs more, but for high-value or special vehicles, the added peace of mind is priceless. If you’re shipping a daily driver, open transport is often the best value. But if you’re moving a rare, luxury, or collector car, enclosed transport is absolutely worth the extra cost.
At Abbott Shippers, we connect you with licensed, insured carriers offering both open and enclosed transport — so you always get the right option for your needs.
📞 Ready to ship your vehicle? Get your free quote today and let Abbott Shippers guide you to the best transport solution.