By Umar Awan 
When transporting a high-value vehicle, protection is everything. Whether you own a luxury sedan, exotic supercar, or a restored classic, enclosed vehicle shipping offers the highest level of safety and care during transport. While it’s more expensive than open auto transport, the added protection and peace of mind make it the preferred choice for vehicle owners who demand the best.
Enclosed vehicle shipping involves transporting your car in a fully enclosed trailer, protecting it from external elements such as weather, road debris, and dust. These trailers typically hold one to six vehicles and are equipped with advanced safety features like hydraulic lift gates and soft tie-down systems to ensure secure loading and unloading.
Because enclosed transporters carry fewer cars than open carriers, they provide a more personalized and careful handling process, ideal for vehicles that require special attention.
- Request a Quote:
You begin by requesting a shipping estimate from a licensed auto transport company. Rates depend on the distance, vehicle type, and level of service required. - Book Your Shipment:
Once you approve the quote, your car is scheduled for pickup by a qualified enclosed carrier. These carriers often operate on more flexible schedules than open carriers. - Pre-Transport Inspection:
Before loading, the carrier performs a detailed inspection and records the vehicle’s condition on a Bill of Lading. - Secure Transport:
The vehicle is carefully loaded into a fully enclosed trailer using a lift gate or ramp. It’s secured with soft straps or wheel nets to prevent any contact damage. - Delivery and Final Inspection:
Upon delivery, the driver performs a final inspection, ensuring the car arrives in pristine condition.
The biggest advantage of enclosed transport is complete protection from rain, snow, dust, and road debris. Vehicles are shielded inside the trailer, making it the safest way to ship a car long-distance.
Drivers handling enclosed trailers are typically experienced in transporting luxury, exotic, and collector cars. They understand the specific care required for low-clearance and high-value vehicles.
Enclosed transport typically includes higher insurance coverage compared to open carriers, offering greater peace of mind in case of any damage.
Since enclosed trailers carry fewer vehicles, you benefit from more direct routes, minimal handling, and faster delivery times for premium shipments.
Enclosed vehicle shipping is ideal for:
- Classic and antique cars
- Luxury and exotic car transport (Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, etc.)
- Restored or show vehicles
- Low-clearance sports cars
- Vehicles requiring extra protection from weather or debris
If you own a daily driver or standard vehicle, open transport may be a more cost-effective choice. However, for valuable or delicate vehicles, enclosed shipping ensures maximum safety.
| Distance | Average Cost | Cost Per Mile |
| 0–500 miles | $650 – $950 | $1.25 – $1.75 |
| 500–1,000 miles | $950 – $1,300 | $1.00 – $1.50 |
| 1,000–2,000 miles | $1,300 – $1,900 | $0.85 – $1.25 |
| 2,000+ miles | $1,900 – $2,800 | $0.75 – $1.00 |
Prices depend on factors like route availability, seasonality, vehicle size, and insurance requirements.
| Feature | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Protection | Exposed to weather and debris | Fully enclosed |
| Vehicle Type | Standard cars | Luxury, classic, exotic |
| Availability | High | Limited |
| Insurance Coverage | Standard | Higher limits |
- Choose a licensed and insured auto transport company.
- Request proof of insurance and coverage limits.
- Prepare your vehicle by cleaning it and removing personal items.
- Inspect and photograph the car before and after transport.
- Communicate clearly with your carrier for accurate pickup and delivery windows.
Enclosed vehicle shipping is the premium solution for transporting valuable, delicate, or luxury vehicles. While the cost is higher than open transport, the superior protection and personalized care make it the best option for vehicle owners who prioritize safety and preservation. Whether you’re shipping a classic collectible or a new high-end car, enclosed transport ensures your investment reaches its destination in flawless condition.
Abdul Basit 
Galileo 
IQnewswire