There are several methods you can use to ship your car such as open and enclosed auto transport. The latter is commonly used for high-end, classic, or exotic cars which begs the question, is it necessary for ordinary cars? We hope to answer that question in this blog along with when enclosed transport is best suited and how it may benefit you in regards to costs compared to benefits.
Understanding Enclosed vs. Open Auto Transport
We first need to find out if you need a more detailed explanation of why open transport is used the most before diving into the reason why open transport is the best fit for your car.
– Open Auto Transport: This is the most common and affordable method of shipping vehicles. Here, cars are placed on an open trailer, with exposure to air. Given that your automobile is covered in dirt and grime, debris from the streets, nature, and poor weather conditions, it is still one of the cheapest options.
– While Enclosed Auto Transport: Unlike enclosed auto transport which involves shipping your vehicle in a fully enclosed trailer. It protects the vehicle from weather conditions, road debris, as well as theft. In comparison to other vehicles, exotic cars, classic cars, or high-end cars tend to have more protection while being transported in high-end exotic enclosed.
When is enclosed auto transport for an ordinary vehicle required?
Multiple factors come into play when defining whether to enclosed transport your ordinary vehicle or not. Below are some of the scenarios where you might want to choose enclosed auto transport.
- Avoiding exposure to harsh weather conditions.
When shipping your vehicle to or receiving it from a location exhibiting extreme weather such as heavy snow, intense rain, and even hail, one option worth considering is enclosed auto transport. While standard vehicles can easily endure such weather conditions, there are still some long-lasting impacts such as rust, paint chipping, and other forms of exterior deterioration that can take place if exposed to such elements during the trip.
- Shipping a New Car with a Custom Paint Job
For individuals who have purchased brand new cars outfitted with custom paints and features, enclosed transport is likely the best option. Open carriers are susceptible to critiquing elements such as debris and weather. These factors pose a threat to the paint job and could scratch the surface. Unlike other forms of transport, enclosed shipment guarantees that the clients car is will be in showroom condition even after long haul trips.
- Long-Distance Shipping with Increased Risk of Damage
Long distance, and even midrange car shipping are particularly rough on the vehicle’s integrity. This is especially true when separating the car from its owners for a few hundred miles, or for a thousand stretches. The factors pose a risk of the car being scratched by road debris when exposed in open transporters. Generally speaking, open transport is considered the safest way of transporting a car. However, some vehicles, especially those that are low clearance and have delicate features are exposed to greater risk.
- High-Value Modifications or Generally Standard Cars
Enclosed transport might be the best option for cars of greater value and those with aftermarket additions. Clients suspected to have custom parts that stand a chance of getting ruined by debris or climate will require enclosed transport. This form of shipment guarantees that plastic coverings will be provided serving as a preventative measure against possible undefined damage.
- Peace of Mind During Transportation
Some owners of luxury vehicles often prefer enclosed transport as it comes with the comfort that their vehicle is securely protected. If you are shipping a car over a long distance or across state lines, you may prefer the added safety that comes with knowing the car is protected and shielded from all external threats of the road.
Benefits of Enclosed Auto Transport
Using an enclosed transport option comes at an additional cost. However, for some use cases, the benefits it provides may outweigh the additional cost. Here are the distinct benefits of using enclosed auto transport services for an average passenger vehicle:
- Ultimate Protection for Your Vehicle
The primary benefit of enclosed transport is the protection it offers. While your car is enclosed in a trailer, it is shielded from water, snow, dirt, gravel as well as debris from the roads which may scratch the windows or body. This applies for every car that is being transported as freight over long distances.
- Additional Safety Features
Because enclosed carriers completely cover your automobile, exposure to tampering or theft is significantly reduced. This is highly beneficial when transporting newly purchased or high value cars, as they need extra security features.
- Protection for Rare and Luxurious Automobiles
Even if your car is a ordinary model, aftermarket features and unique customizations make it noteworthy. Enclosed transport guarantees protection which is especially useful if you are shipping a car that’s harder to replace or has features not usually found in certain markets.
- Lower Possibility Of Damage During The Loading and Unloading Steam
There is a level of risk associated with loading and unloading vehicles off and onto trailers. Open carriers are sometimes equipped with ramps used to load vehicles which, if not done carefully, can cause scratches and scrapes to the car. Unlike open transport, enclosed transport uses hydraulic lifts, which minimizes the chances of damage during this process.
Is Enclosed Auto Transport More Expensive for a Standard Vehicle? Does It Offer Value?
As always, the answer is contingent upon your own situation. We have compiled a list of questions that will help you figure out whether the cost of enclosed transport will be worth it for your ordinary vehicle.
- Is The Vehicle Customized Or Is It New?
In the instance that a vehicle is new or has custom features like paint, wheels, and various accessories, the enclosed carrier will offer protection from damage and will become a good investment.
- Does The Vehicle Require Protection From Severe Weather Conditions?
If a vehicle is susceptible to severe weather like hail, heavy snow, or rain, there are other options, such as enclosed transport, which offer additional protection that mitigates expensive repairs or a declination of the vehicle’s worth.
- What Value Does One Place On Stress Relief? How Important Is It To Eliminate Stress?
In the circumstances where an individual values knowing that their vehicle will remain unharmed and completely protected from all possible risk during transportation, then paying extra for enclosed transport becomes justifiable given the peace of mind there is especially when the vehicle is being shipped over long distances.
- Would You Be Willing To Pay More For The Additional Service?
Unlike open auto transport, enclosed auto transport requires an additional fee which could range between 30-50% when considering insurance terms. Although that price is higher, take a look at how much of a difference does it make if it’s really important to protect your car and whether or not you have the budget for this expense.
General Overview
As it was mentioned before, enclosed auto transport services are not considered essential for standard vehicles, unless there is a compelling reason to do so. Regardless, there are a number of circumstances that suggest getting one. If you’re worried about the elements, need to protect a bespoke vehicle, or simply want the assurance that your vehicle is secure within a capsule, the advantages of enclosed transport are evident. As such, if you find yourself in one of the situations listed above, selecting enclosed auto transport services could turn out to be the most effective way of improving the security of your vehicle.
Visit Car Shipping Source today to learn more about enclosed auto transport features and get a quote for free!
