When shipping a vehicle, one of the first decisions you will face is whether to use open or enclosed transport. Both options have their place, and the right choice depends on your vehicle, budget, and personal preferences.
Open Car Transport
Open transport is the industry standard. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer, similar to the carriers used by dealerships to deliver new cars. These trailers typically hold 7-10 vehicles at once.
Pros: - Most affordable option - Faster availability due to more carriers on the road - Same method used by manufacturers for new vehicles - Safe for the vast majority of cars
Cons: - Vehicle is exposed to weather and road debris - Less protection from the elements
Enclosed Car Transport
Enclosed transport places your vehicle inside a fully covered trailer. This provides maximum protection from weather, dust, road debris, and prying eyes.
Pros: - Maximum protection during transit - Ideal for luxury, classic, and exotic vehicles - Higher insurance coverage typically available - Protection from potential vandalism or theft
Cons: - 30-60% more expensive than open transport - Fewer carriers available, so scheduling may take longer
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Open Transport If: - You have a standard daily driver - Cost is a primary concern - You are shipping a common vehicle under $50,000 - You are comfortable with minimal exposure risk
Choose Enclosed Transport If: - You own a luxury, classic, or exotic vehicle - Your car has custom paint or modifications - The vehicle is worth over $50,000 - You want maximum peace of mind
The Bottom Line
For most people, open transport is perfectly adequate and significantly cheaper. Your everyday sedan, SUV, or truck will arrive safely via open carrier just as millions of new cars do every year.
However, if your vehicle is rare, valuable, or irreplaceable, the extra cost of enclosed transport is a small price for maximum protection. At BMD Freight, we offer both options and will help you make the right choice for your specific needs.