When it comes to shipping a car across the country or even internationally, safety and protection are the top priorities for car owners. Enclosed car shipping services offer the highest level of security for your vehicle during transit. Unlike open transport, where cars are exposed to the elements, enclosed shipping ensures that your vehicle is shielded from weather, road debris, and potential damage. If you’re considering enclosed car shipping services for your next move, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Enclosed Car Shipping?
Enclosed car shipping is a method of transporting vehicles inside a fully enclosed trailer, protecting the vehicle from external elements such as rain, snow, dirt, and road debris. This service is ideal for luxury cars, classic cars, exotic vehicles, sports cars, and any other high-value or specialty car that requires additional protection.
Why Choose Enclosed Car Shipping?
- Ultimate Protection for Your Vehicle The primary benefit of enclosed car shipping is the protection it offers. Your vehicle is placed in an enclosed container, which means it will be shielded from all kinds of environmental hazards, including weather conditions like hailstorms, rain, and extreme heat. Additionally, an enclosed trailer provides a buffer against flying debris from the road, which can damage the paintwork or even the body of your car.
- Security Enclosed car transport services generally offer better security for high-value vehicles. These trailers are locked and often monitored by GPS, providing peace of mind that your car is secure throughout its journey. This is especially important for rare, expensive, or custom vehicles that may be a target for theft if left exposed in an open trailer.
- Ideal for High-Value Vehicles Enclosed car shipping is particularly popular for transporting luxury, exotic, and classic cars. These vehicles often have higher value and delicate finishes that require extra care during transit. Standard open car carriers might not provide the level of security and protection needed for these types of cars, which makes enclosed shipping the best choice.
- Weather Protection When transporting a vehicle on an open carrier, it is subjected to all kinds of weather conditions, which can cause damage. Hail, heavy rain, or even extreme sun exposure can affect a car’s exterior. An enclosed carrier offers protection from these conditions, ensuring your vehicle arrives in the same condition it left.
- Less Exposure to Road Hazards Open trailers leave vehicles vulnerable to road debris, rocks, and dirt that can fly up from the road, leading to scratches or dents. With enclosed car shipping, your vehicle is fully enclosed and protected from these potential hazards, making it a safer option for transporting your vehicle.
Types of Enclosed Car Shipping
There are two main types of enclosed car shipping services:
- Hard-Sided Enclosed Shipping This is the most secure form of enclosed car transport. The trailer has solid walls and a roof, providing full protection from the outside environment. These carriers are usually equipped with features such as hydraulic lifts to load and unload vehicles, minimizing the risk of damage.
- Soft-Sided Enclosed Shipping Soft-sided enclosed transport uses canvas or other flexible materials to enclose the car. While this option still provides protection from weather and debris, it is not as secure as hard-sided trailers. However, it is often more affordable and can be a good choice for transporting standard vehicles or cars that don’t require the maximum level of protection.
Enclosed vs. Open Car Shipping: Which Is Better?
Both open and enclosed car shipping services have their advantages, but the best option depends on your vehicle’s needs and your priorities.
- Cost: Enclosed car shipping is generally more expensive than open transport due to the extra level of protection and the specialized equipment used.
- Protection: Enclosed transport offers the highest level of protection from the elements and road hazards.
- Convenience: Both types of shipping services are door-to-door, but enclosed trailers often offer a more premium experience with more careful handling.
- Suitability for Luxury and Classic Cars: For rare, classic, or luxury vehicles, enclosed car shipping is the preferred choice as it minimizes risks.
If you’re shipping a vehicle that’s irreplaceable, highly valuable, or has a custom paint job or modifications, enclosed car shipping is worth the extra cost to ensure maximum safety.
How Does Enclosed Car Shipping Work?
- Request a Quote: Reach out to a reputable car shipping company that offers enclosed transport. Provide details such as the car’s make and model, pick-up and delivery locations, and desired shipping dates. The company will offer a quote based on your specific needs.
- Booking and Scheduling: Once you’ve agreed on the terms and the quote, you can schedule a pick-up time for your vehicle. Many car shipping companies will offer door-to-door service, meaning they will pick up your car from your location and deliver it to the specified destination.
- Inspection: Before loading the vehicle onto the enclosed trailer, the car will be inspected for existing damage. Both you and the transport company will document any pre-existing issues to avoid disputes upon delivery.
- Transport: The vehicle is then carefully loaded into the enclosed trailer and securely fastened in place. Depending on the distance, the transport may take a few days to a week. The driver will keep you updated on the status of your vehicle’s journey.
- Delivery: Upon arrival at the destination, the car is unloaded from the trailer. The delivery is often made directly to your home or a nearby location, and you will be asked to inspect the car to ensure it has arrived safely.
How Much Does Enclosed Car Shipping Cost?
The cost of enclosed car shipping varies depending on several factors, including the distance of travel, the type of vehicle, the time of year, and the specific company you choose. On average, enclosed car shipping can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 or more for domestic transport. International shipments may cost significantly more due to additional logistics and customs procedures.
While the cost may seem high compared to open shipping, the additional protection and peace of mind are often worth the investment, especially for high-value or irreplaceable vehicles.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Enclosed Car Shipping
- Distance: The farther your vehicle needs to travel, the higher the cost. Long-distance and international shipments typically cost more than short-haul shipments.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles may cost more to ship because they take up more space or require special handling.
- Seasonality: The time of year can affect pricing. Peak shipping seasons, such as during the summer or holidays, may result in higher prices.
- Type of Trailer: Hard-sided enclosed trailers may cost more than soft-sided carriers due to the added protection they provide.
- Additional Services: Some companies may charge extra for door-to-door service or expedited shipping.
Tips for Choosing the Right Enclosed Car Shipping Company
- Do Your Research: Look for a reputable car shipping company with good customer reviews and a history of safe transport. Verify that the company is licensed and insured.
- Compare Quotes: Request quotes from multiple shipping companies to find the best balance of cost and service. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may not offer the level of service you need.
- Ask About Insurance: Ensure that the company provides adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit. This is especially important for high-value or classic cars.
- Check for Experience with Luxury Vehicles: If you’re shipping a luxury, exotic, or classic car, choose a company with experience in handling these types of vehicles to ensure they understand the specific care needed.
Conclusion
Enclosed car shipping offers the highest level of protection and security for transporting your vehicle. Whether you’re shipping a classic car, luxury vehicle, or any other high-value automobile, choosing enclosed transport ensures that your car arrives at its destination in the same condition it left. While it may cost more than open car shipping, the peace of mind and extra care involved are invaluable when it comes to protecting your prized possession. Make sure to do your research, compare quotes, and select a reputable company to ensure a smooth and safe vehicle shipping experience.
Leave a Reply