When booking services from auto transport companies, you are likely to come across two popular shipping options – open and enclosed auto transport.
Both open and enclosed auto transport methods are widely preferred by most auto transport companies across the globe. Based on your shipping requirements and budget, you can opt for the method suitable to your car shipment needs.
Open and enclosed auto transport services are created considering several shipping factors and are used for short as well as long shipping distances. Regardless of the choice, shipping companies ensure the utmost safety and security of your vehicle
But, which one to choose?
Well, it simply depends on your shipping needs and requirements. If this is your first hiring shipping service or you don’t know much about either of the shipping methods, we are here to help.
This article contains everything that helps expand your knowledge about different shipping methods and ways to determine the best available shipping option for you.
What is open auto transport?
The open auto transport shipping service option is available for customers looking for cheap and affordable shipping solutions. In this shipping method, cars and other vehicles are shipped on open trailers ( with no sides) most safely and securely. However, the trailer does not protect your vehicle from outdoor weather conditions and different road elements.
Types of open car trailers
1. Single-level hotshot trailer
The single-level multi-car trailer is widely used for short-distance and expedited transportation purposes. The vehicle is attached to a dually truck with a tow trailer along with a goose-neck trailer to haul one vehicle.
2. Single-level multi-car trailer
In a single-level multi-car trailer, you can transport more than one vehicle at a time. Shipping companies use a large-size goose-neck trailer to haul more than one car.
3. Multi-level multi-car trailer
A multi-level multi-car trailer is most commonly used for long-distance transportation. It is one of the most cost-effective, reliable, and feasible ways to transport more than one vehicle at a time.
Pros and Cons of open auto transport
1. Pros
- Affordable compared to enclosed auto transport.
- Readily available.
- Can transport multiple vehicles at affordable prices.
- Faster delivery times.
2. Cons
- Vehicles are exposed to extreme weather conditions and road elements such as dust, dirt, and more.
- Higher chances of theft.
What is enclosed auto transport?
The enclosed auto transport methods are more suitable for transporting luxurious and limited edition vehicles. In this method, your vehicle is transported in a closed container protected from weather conditions, unwanted road incidents, road elements, and theft. However, compared to open auto transport, enclosed shipping services are more expensive and not readily available.
Types of enclosed car trailers
1. Single-level single-vehicle trailer
A single-level single-vehicle transport trailer is best suited for transporting one vehicle at a time. Most shipping companies use single-level single-vehicle trailers to complete expedited enclosed auto transport deliveries.
2. Single-level multi-car trailer
If you are looking for trailers that can transport more than one vehicle at a time, a single-level multi-car trailer is the best option available. This trailer can deliver more than one car (up to three), but less than multi-level trailers
3. Multi-level multi-car trailer
A multi-level multi-car trailer can ship more than three cars (depending on the size of the vehicles) at a time. Compared to other shipping trailer options, multi-level trailers are slightly more expensive.
Pros and cons of enclosed auto transport
1. Pros
- Significant amount of safety and security to vehicles from weather conditions and other related road elements.
- Complete protection from theft and potential damages during transit.
- Luxurious car shipping experience.
2. Cons
- Expensive than most shipping options.
- Not readily available.
- Transports fewer cars than open auto transport methods.
Which one to choose?
Which shipping method to choose depends on your shipping preferences and how much you can afford. Both open and enclosed transport methods have their own pros and cons. Customers that don’t want to pay expensive shipping charges can opt for open auto transport services. On the other hand, if money is not your primary concern and you don’t want to compromise the safety of your vehicle, enclosed auto transportation is the best option to choose from.
Hire services from a shipping company with more than five years of experience in the industry, that has good customer reviews. Similarly, they should be licensed and recognized by the government authorities.
