If you own a luxury, exotic, or classic car, enclosed auto transport is the safest and most secure way to ship your vehicle. Unlike standard open carriers, enclosed car shipping offers full protection against weather, road debris, dust, and potential damage. This premium service is trusted by car collectors, dealerships, and high-end owners who prioritize safety over cost.
In this guide, we’ll explore when enclosed transport is necessary, how much it costs, the types of trailers available, and how to choose a reliable provider.
What Is Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed auto transport is a method of shipping vehicles inside a fully covered trailer, shielding them from all external elements. These trailers are designed for maximum protection and are commonly used for transporting valuable, fragile, or rare vehicles.
Unlike open carriers, which can expose cars to sun, rain, or road grime, enclosed carriers are sealed and secure. They typically carry fewer vehicles, ensuring special attention and safer handling.
Who Should Use Enclosed Auto Transport?
While enclosed transport is available for anyone, it’s most recommended for
Luxury cars like Rolls-Royce, Porsche, or Tesla
Classic and antique vehicles
Exotic sports cars like Ferrari or Lamborghini
Show cars and collector models
Custom or modified vehicles
Electric vehicles with delicate undercarriage components
If your car is worth more than $50,000 or has sentimental or irreplaceable value, enclosed auto transport is often the smartest option.
Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport
Choosing between open and enclosed depends on your budget, car type, and comfort with risk. Here’s a side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Protection from weather | No | Yes |
| Ideal for | Everyday cars | High-end, exotic, classic cars |
| Visibility to elements | Fully exposed | Fully covered |
| Price | Lower | Higher (30–60% more) |
| Capacity per trailer | 7–10 cars | 1–6 cars |
| Insurance coverage | Basic | Enhanced |
How Much Does Enclosed Auto Transport Cost?
The cost of enclosed auto transport is generally 30% to 60% higher than open transport. Several factors influence pricing, including
Distance
Vehicle size and weight
Route accessibility
Time of year (peak or off-season)
Type of enclosed trailer (soft-sided vs hard-sided)
Expedited vs standard shipping
Sample Pricing Estimates
| Route | Distance | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles to Phoenix | 375 miles | $450 – $650 | $750 – $1,000 |
| Miami to Dallas | 1,300 miles | $900 – $1,200 | $1,400 – $1,800 |
| Chicago to New York | 800 miles | $700 – $1,000 | $1,100 – $1,500 |
| San Francisco to Seattle | 800 miles | $750 – $950 | $1,200 – $1,600 |
Use the Montway Auto Calculator or Sherpa Auto Quote Tool for real-time estimates.
Types of Enclosed Transport Trailers
Not all enclosed carriers are the same. Depending on the provider and your needs, you may encounter the following
Soft-sided enclosed trailers
More affordable, but offer less protection from dust and moisture
Hard-sided enclosed trailers
Premium protection, sealed from all external conditions, preferred for show and collector cars
Single-car enclosed trailers
Dedicated transport with white-glove service, ideal for high-value or fragile vehicles
Hydraulic liftgate loading
Used instead of ramps to prevent damage to low-clearance sports cars
How to Prepare Your Car for Enclosed Transport
Even though your car will be protected during transit, preparation is key
Wash the car and photograph it from all angles
Remove personal belongings and valuables
Disable alarms and toll tags
Keep the gas tank at about 1/4 full
Check fluids, battery, and tires
Confirm delivery address and contact details
A clean and well-documented vehicle helps in the unlikely event of a claim.
Choosing the Best Enclosed Auto Transport Company
When choosing a provider for enclosed auto transport, look for experience, reputation, and proper credentials.
Check FMCSA licensing at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
Review customer ratings on BBB and TransportReviews
Request insurance details and read the fine print
Ask about carrier type and equipment used
Get a written quote with guaranteed pickup and delivery window
Recommended Companies
Reliable Carriers – Premium enclosed transport for classic and exotic cars
Intercity Lines – White-glove service for collectors and luxury vehicles
Montway Auto Transport – Nationwide coverage with enclosed trailer options
Sherpa Auto Transport – Known for consistent pricing and quality service
Common Scenarios Where Enclosed Transport Is Essential
Shipping a car to or from an auto show
Purchasing a rare vehicle online from another state
Relocating your luxury car for a job or seasonal move
Transporting a vehicle for a film or promotional shoot
Sending a custom-built or restored car to a client
Frequently Asked Questions
Is enclosed auto transport worth the extra cost?
Yes, especially for vehicles that are high in value or condition-sensitive. The added protection and peace of mind justify the cost.
How long does enclosed shipping take?
Transit time is usually the same as open shipping, though limited capacity and specialty equipment may slightly affect scheduling.
Is the car insured during enclosed transport?
Yes, all reputable companies provide insurance. Confirm coverage limits and ask for a copy of the policy.
Can I ship non-running vehicles?
Yes, but you’ll need to notify the carrier. Extra equipment and loading labor will usually increase the price.
Final Thoughts on Enclosed Auto Transport
When safety, protection, and peace of mind matter most, enclosed auto transport is the best choice for your vehicle. From exotic sports cars to irreplaceable classics, this premium service ensures your investment is shielded throughout the journey. While it costs more than open shipping, the benefits far outweigh the price — especially when you partner with a trusted and experienced auto transport provider.
Resources and Backlinks
Reliable Carriers – Exotic Auto Transport
Intercity Lines – Enclosed Auto Shipping
Montway Auto Transport – Quote Tool
Sherpa Auto Transport – Get a Quote
FMCSA Company Lookup
Transport Reviews – Carrier Ratings
