An open car carrier is a trailer with no walls that hauls 8 to 10 cars at a time, and it is the most common and most affordable way to ship a car. An enclosed car carrier is a walled trailer that holds fewer cars, shields them from weather, and typically costs 30% to 50% more. Most everyday cars ride open. High-value, classic, and custom cars are usually the best candidates for enclosed transport.
One major choice when picking auto transport options is whether to use an open car carrier or an enclosed car carrier. The main difference is that an open carrier is open on all sides, while an enclosed carrier is a walled container truck. There are benefits to each option.
How an Open Car Carrier Works
If you choose an open carrier, your car is loaded onto an open trailer and securely attached. These trailers hold several vehicles per load, typically 8 to 10. A standard open trailer usually has two levels, so your car may be top-loaded or secured on the bottom level under other vehicles.
The open carrier does leave your car exposed to the weather, and there is no safe way to secure a cover over your vehicle during transit. Your car will arrive dusty or rain-spotted and will need a wash. Your car most likely made its first trip to the dealership on an identical open carrier, which is why open transport is a safe, proven way to move a car.
How an Enclosed Car Carrier Works
With an enclosed carrier, your car travels inside the truck's walls. It stays out of the elements, shielded from road debris and out of sight of passersby. Cars are tethered inside with soft straps.
Enclosed trailers hold fewer cars, typically 4 to 8 on long routes, while smaller 2- or 3-car trailers handle shorter moves. Because fewer enclosed trailers are on the road, you may wait longer for one. Enclosed carriers also typically carry higher insurance coverage amounts per vehicle.
Open vs. Enclosed Car Carrier at a Glance
|
Trailer |
No walls, usually two levels |
Walled trailer |
|
Cars per load |
Typically 8 to 10 |
Typically 4 to 8 on long routes, 2 or 3 on shorter ones |
|
Protection |
Exposed to weather, arrives dusty or rain-spotted |
Shielded from weather, road debris, and view |
|
Cost |
Most affordable |
Typically 30% to 50% more |
|
Availability |
More carriers on the road, usually quicker to book |
Fewer trailers, so you may wait longer |
|
Best for |
Everyday cars and trucks |
Classic, luxury, high-value, and custom cars |
A Quick Rule of Thumb
Open is the more common choice because it is more affordable and easier to book. If your car is worth more than $70,000, consider enclosed, mainly because enclosed carriers carry higher insurance coverage for the rare event of a total loss. If your car is worth more than $100,000, we recommend enclosed. Cars below that value can go open and still get the coverage they need.
With Ship a Car Direct, the carrier's insurance covers either option and is always primary. That is only a rule of thumb. For the full cost and protection decision, see our guide on how to decide between open and enclosed transport.
Call us at 866-221-1664 for more information about carrier options or any auto transport question, or get a free car shipping quote and choose open or enclosed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an open and an enclosed car carrier?
An open carrier has no walls and hauls 8 to 10 cars, while an enclosed carrier is a walled trailer that holds fewer cars and shields them from weather and road debris—enclosed costs more, typically 30% to 50% more.
Is an open car carrier safe?
Yes. It is perfectly safe to ship your car on an open carrier, and your car most likely made its first trip to the dealership on an identical one. Expect it to need a wash when it arrives.
How many cars fit on an open or enclosed carrier?
Open carriers typically hold 8 to 10 cars. Enclosed carriers typically hold 4 to 8 on long routes, and smaller 2- or 3-car trailers handle shorter moves.
Is an enclosed carrier faster than an open carrier?
Not usually. Fewer enclosed trailers are on the road, so you may wait longer for one, while open carriers are more plentiful and usually quicker to book.
When do I need an enclosed car carrier?
Consider an enclosed carrier if your car is worth more than $70,000, and choose it for classic, luxury, or high-value cars, especially those above $100,000. Enclosed adds protection from weather and road debris and carries higher insurance coverage amounts.
