Trailer type quiz
Open or Enclosed: Which Carrier Do You Need?
Stop guessing — get a straight recommendation for your vehicle.
About 45 seconds · 5 questions
The short answer
About 90% of vehicles ship safely on open carriers, which cost roughly 30% less than enclosed. Choose enclosed when the vehicle is worth more than about $70,000, is a classic, exotic, or show car, has low ground clearance, or is moving through winter weather or salted roads.
Key facts
- Open transport carries 7–10 vehicles and is the industry default.
- Enclosed transport carries 2–6 vehicles and costs about 30% more.
- Enclosed carriers usually offer higher cargo coverage limits.
- Enclosed availability is thinner, so book further ahead.
1. What is the vehicle worth?
2. How would you describe it?
3. Ground clearance and modifications?
4. Will the route hit winter weather or salted roads?
5. How important is the lowest price?
Answer all 5 questions to see your result.
Frequently asked questions
Is open car transport safe?
Yes. Open carriers move the large majority of vehicles in the US, including new cars delivered to dealerships. Damage on open transport is uncommon.
How much more is enclosed car shipping?
Enclosed transport typically costs about 30% more than open transport on the same route.