When it comes to shipping your vehicle, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to choose open car shipping or enclosed car shipping. Both options are safe and professional ways to move your car, but each serves a different need depending on your vehicle’s value, type, and your comfort level with protection.
Below, we’ll break down the key differences, pros and cons of each, and help you decide which option is right for your car — whether you’re moving a classic, luxury, or everyday vehicle.
Open Car Shipping: Affordable, Efficient, and Reliable
Open auto transport is the most common and cost-effective way to ship a car. If you’ve ever seen a long trailer carrying several vehicles down the highway, that’s an open car carrier. These carriers are used by dealerships, manufacturers, and individuals shipping standard vehicles across the country every single day.
Pros of Open Auto Transport:
- Lower cost: Open shipping is the most budget-friendly option, making it ideal for standard sedans, SUVs, or daily drivers.
- Faster scheduling: Because it’s the industry standard, open carriers are more widely available and can often pick up your vehicle sooner.
- Great for most vehicles: Perfect for cars that are driven regularly or don’t require special handling.
Cons of Open Auto Transport:
- Exposure to the elements: Vehicles are not covered, meaning your car may be exposed to weather, dust, and road debris during transport.
- Limited privacy: Your vehicle will be visible on the carrier, which can be a drawback for certain high-end or collector cars.
According to Auto Rexa, open carriers are the industry’s most practical solution for standard vehicles — but they aren’t always ideal for rare or valuable cars that require extra protection.
Enclosed Car Shipping: Maximum Protection for Valuable Vehicles
For high-value, luxury, or collector vehicles, enclosed auto transport offers the highest level of protection and care. These carriers feature solid or soft-sided walls, protecting your car from weather, dust, and road debris throughout the journey.
Pros of Enclosed Auto Transport:
- Full protection: Your vehicle is shielded from rain, snow, and debris inside an enclosed trailer.
- Ideal for classic or luxury cars: If you’re shipping a classic car or an exotic model, enclosed transport keeps it safe from scratches, dirt, and unwanted exposure.
- Special handling: Enclosed carriers often use lift gates and soft straps to ensure your vehicle is loaded and unloaded safely.
- Privacy: Your vehicle remains hidden from view for the entire trip.
Cons of Enclosed Auto Transport:
- Higher cost: Because of the added protection and limited space, enclosed auto transport rates are typically higher than open transport.
- Slightly longer scheduling time: There are fewer enclosed carriers on the road compared to open ones, so pickup windows can take a bit longer.
Enclosed transport can cost 30–60% more, but the trade-off is worth it for rare, high-value, or collectible vehicles that deserve an extra layer of protection.
Classic and Luxury Cars Deserve the Extra Care
If you’re shipping classic cars or handling luxury car shipping, the peace of mind from choosing enclosed transport is often well worth the investment. Collectors and enthusiasts know that even a minor scratch or exposure to the elements can affect resale value or finish quality.
As Classic Auto Advisors points out, classic car owners should look for carriers experienced with older or modified vehicles. These carriers understand how to manage unique suspension setups, low ground clearance, and sensitive finishes.
Lepke Auto Transport regularly handles classic car shipping, luxury car transportation services, and auto transport enclosed for clients across the U.S. Their enclosed car carriers are designed specifically to protect your vehicle from start to finish — whether it’s headed to a car show, a new home, or a private collection.
Open vs. Enclosed: Which Is Right for You?
If your car is a daily driver or standard vehicle, open transport is a reliable, affordable way to move it safely across the country. But if you’re moving a rare, restored, or high-end model, enclosed auto transport offers unmatched security and peace of mind.
When you request enclosed car shipping quotes, Lepke Auto Transport will help you compare your options, understand your timeline, and find the best balance between cost and protection. They even offer specialized routes for shipping classic cars and vehicles bound for Hawaii or Alaska, ensuring your investment is safe every mile of the journey.
Ready to Ship with Confidence?
Whether you’re moving a daily driver or a collector’s dream car, Lepke Auto Transport has the experience, reliability, and customer care to get it there safely.
Contact Lepke Auto Transport today for a fast, affordable quote on enclosed or open shipping.
We specialize in enclosed auto transport, luxury car shipping, and classic car transport — giving every vehicle the white-glove treatment it deserves.