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Title

Enclosed Car Shipping: Your Ultimate Guide

What Is Enclosed Car Shipping?

Defining Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed auto transport refers to moving vehicles in fully covered trailers, protecting vehicles on all sides. Unlike open carriers, enclosed trailers shield against:

Weather (rain, snow, hail, sun)
Road debris (gravel, insects)
Dust and dirt
Vandalism and theft

Think of it as VIP travel for your vehicle—ensuring it arrives in pristine condition.

How It Differs from Open Transport

Feature	Enclosed Shipping	Open Transport
Protection	Complete (all sides)	Partial (top only)
Cost	Premium	More affordable
Visibility	Private, secure	Public, exposed
Ideal For	Luxury, classic, sensitive vehicles	Standard vehicles, budget moves

While enclosed shipments cost more, they offer unmatched security for valuable vehicles.

Why Choose Enclosed Car Shipping?

Superior Protection

For luxury cars, antique vehicles, exotic cars, or high-end models, enclosed auto transport is essential. Trailers are enclosed with walls and doors, shielding vehicles from environmental damage.

Maintaining Aesthetic Integrity

Car shows, auctions, or sales require immaculate presentation. Enclosed car shipping in USA ensures:

No scratches from road grit
No weather etches or sun spots
Zero particulate contact

Optimal for Long-Distance Moves

Cross-country treks involve unpredictable elements. Enclosed trailers create a controlled environment, making enclosed auto shipping services vital for coast-to-coast relocations.

Peace of Mind and Insured Coverage

Premium insurance often included with enclosed shipping gives added peace of mind—ideal for collectors or high-value vehicles.

Types of Enclosed Auto Transport

H3: Soft-Sided Enclosed Trailers

Constructed with durable vinyl or canvas over a frame:

Lighter and more affordable
Easier to drive
Good for standard luxury cars

Hard-Sided Enclosed Trailers

Metal-walled trailers offering maximum protection:

Better against impacts or collisions
Ideal for ultra-premiums (classic, supercars)

Custom Multi-Car Enclosed Trailers

Carriers specializing in enclosed auto transport may offer trailers for multiple supercars—used by dealerships and collectors.

Key Terms in Enclosed Car Shipping

Door-to-Door vs Terminal-to-Terminal

Door-to-Door: Pickup and delivery at your location—most convenient, pricier.
Terminal-to-Terminal: Drop-off and pick-up at carrier terminals—more affordable, slightly less convenient.

Liftgate vs Ramp

Ramp-loading: Standard; cars drive on/off.
Liftgate: Used for low-clearance or non-operable vehicles (extra fee).

Insurance and Declared Value

Enclosed carriers typically offer $100k+ coverage. Consider declared value for luxury cars—declares worth and may require extra coverage.

Choosing the Best Enclosed Auto Shipping Services

Reputation and Reviews

Search for providers with:

Strong reputation in enclosed car shipping in USA
Positive client reviews on BBB, Transport Reviews, Reddit
Specialization in enclosed transport—not just open carriers

Transparent Pricing

Ensure pricing includes:

Shipment type (enclosed vs open)
Insurance coverage
Pickup/delivery terms (door vs terminal)
Extra fees (liftgate, storage, expedited service)

Licensing and Insurance Compliance

Verify:

USDOT/FMCSA broker and carrier numbers
Adequate insurance coverage
Damage claim process and track record

Carrier Fleet Quality

Inspect the fleet:

Well-maintained, clean trailers
Hard-sided vs soft-sided as needed
Specialty carriers for exotic cars

Step-by-Step Enclosed Car Shipping Process

Step 1 – Research and Quotes

Compare 3–5 reputable providers
Ask about exact service details
Prioritize enclosed specialists

Step 2 – Book & Prepare

Book 1–3 months ahead for best rates
Clean and photograph your car
Remove personal items (bird or bee luggage rule)

Step 3 – Pickup Day

Inspection report before loading
Photos at pickup
Secure vehicle inside trailer

Step 4 – Transit Stage

Track progress (some offer GPS)
Understand route and timeframe
Communicate with dispatcher

Step 5 – Delivery & Unloading

Final inspection against pickup report
Note any discrepancies
If damage, file promptly

Average Costs of Enclosed Car Shipping in USA

What Influences Price

Distance (cross-country vs regional)
Vehicle size and weight
Trailer type (soft vs hard side)
Pickup and delivery locations
Seasonality and demand
Insurance coverage and declared value

Pricing Ranges

Short haul (<500 mi): $500–900
Mid-range (500–1,200 mi): $1,000–1,800
Long haul (>1,200 mi): $1,500–3,000+ (cross-country)

Custom multi-car trailers or extreme-expedited shipments can exceed $4,000+.

Top Providers for Enclosed Car Shipping in USA

Montway Auto Transport

Offers enclosed options nationwide
4.7 Google rating, strong insurer
Price-lock quotes, door-to-door service

Sherpa Auto Transport

"Price Lock Promise," excellent enforcement
Transparent quotes, strong BBB rating
Ideal for luxury-car haul

Classic Carriage Services

Specialized in classic/vintage vehicles
Hard-sided trailers, climate control
Enthusiast-level care

American Auto Shipping

Offers enclosed nationwide
Tiered pricing (standard/expedited)
Rental car and ferry backup options

Tips to Maximize Your Enclosed Auto Shipping Service

Provide Accurate Vehicle Specs

Include dimensions, operational status, modifications—avoid hidden fees.

Schedule Off-Peak Transport

Winter/early spring may be cheaper due to lower demand.

Thorough Recordkeeping

Photos and inspection reports protect you.

Check for Add-On Services

Ask about:

Liftgate
Expedited delivery
Climate-controlled trailers
Storage

Conclusion

Enclosed car shipping is the gold standard when transporting luxury, vintage, or sensitive vehicles across the USA. Knowing what matters—trailer type, insurance, provider reputation, and prep—ensures your car arrives in perfect condition. Use this guide to select the right enclosed auto transport service, maximize your value, and have full confidence in the process.

Need help comparing quotes or prepping your car? I'm here to help—just ask!