The core difference
Open transport uses a multi-car hauler with no roof or side walls — the same trailer that delivers new cars to your local dealership. Enclosed transport uses a hard-sided trailer, often with hydraulic lift gates and soft tie-downs, that fully shields the vehicle from weather and road debris.
Both are FMCSA-licensed, insured, and safe. The choice comes down to the value of what's inside.
When open transport is the right call
For daily drivers, family SUVs, work trucks, leased vehicles, and most dealer inventory, open transport is the standard and the smart choice. It's faster to book, cheaper, and available in every U.S. metro every day.
- Sedans, SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks under $80K value
- Dealer trades, auction wins, and rental fleet moves
- College and PCS relocations
- Snowbird round trips between Northeast/Midwest and Florida or Arizona
When enclosed transport is worth the premium
Enclosed pricing typically runs 40–75% more than open. That premium buys hard-side protection, soft nylon tie-downs, and drivers who move vehicles for a living — usually 2 or 3 cars per trailer instead of 9 or 10.
- Luxury and exotic vehicles ($80K+)
- Classic, antique, and restored show cars
- Vehicles with fresh paint, custom wraps, or delicate ground clearance
- Electric vehicles with battery-warranty transport requirements from the OEM
- Anything you would not park under a highway overpass in a storm
The 'insurance' myth
Both open and enclosed carriers carry FMCSA-mandated cargo insurance. Enclosed policies are typically higher in limit ($250K–$1M+ per vehicle) because the cargo is worth more — but open transport is not 'uninsured.' Confirm the exact limit with your dispatcher before booking, especially on a high-value car.
How to decide in 30 seconds
If you're moving a daily driver or a vehicle worth under $80K, book open. If it's a garage-kept car you'd feel sick seeing on the highway behind a semi, book enclosed. If you're in between, get both quotes and compare — the delta is usually smaller than people expect.
Related state auto transport pages
Lane-specific pricing, pickup timing, and metros for every state referenced in this guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is enclosed transport twice as expensive?+
Rarely. It's usually 40–75% more than open, though very short lanes and Alaska/Hawaii routes can widen that gap.
How much longer does enclosed take to book?+
Typically 1–3 extra days to dispatch, because fewer enclosed trailers run each lane.
Do EVs require enclosed?+
No, but some OEM warranty programs specify enclosed. Check with the manufacturer before booking.