When shipping a car, choosing the right type of carrier is just as important as selecting a reliable transport service. There are two main types of car carriers: open and enclosed trailers. Open carriers are the standard in the industry, commonly used for shipping everyday vehicles in the most efficient and cost-effective way. Enclosed carriers, on the other hand, offer extra protection and are preferred for high-value, classic, or exotic cars.
The choice between open and enclosed transport depends on several factors, including vehicle type, shipping distance, and budget. Open carriers are widely available and more affordable, making them the best option for standard vehicles. Enclosed carriers provide complete coverage, shielding vehicles from weather and road debris, but they come at a higher cost.
At Corsia Logistics, we help customers make informed decisions by explaining the differences and recommending the best option based on their needs. Whether you need budget-friendly open transport or white-glove enclosed service, our team is here to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth shipping experience.
Open Car Carriers
Open car carriers are the most commonly used trailers in the auto transport industry. They are cost-effective, widely available, and efficient, making them the go-to choice for shipping standard vehicles, dealership inventory, and cross-country relocations. Since open trailers are used for nearly 90% of all car shipments in the U.S., they offer the best balance of affordability and reliability.
There are three main types of open carriers, each suited for different transport needs:
1. Single Car Carrier
- Typically a hotshot trailer towed by a pickup truck.
- Best suited for short-distance or last-mile deliveries.
- Can be booked for expedited long-distance transport if needed.
- Ideal for urgent moves where speed is a priority.
2. Single-Level Multi-Car Carrier
- Designed to transport multiple vehicles on a single deck.
- Can accommodate larger vehicles such as SUVs, RVs, and trucks.
- More flexible than larger multi-level carriers, making it a great option for locations with restricted access.
- Often used for luxury and classic cars when faster transport is required.
3. Multi-Level Multi-Car Carrier
- The standard trailer for long-distance car shipping.
- Can carry up to 9 cars at a time, making it the most cost-efficient option.
- Makes up the majority of open carriers on the road.
- Best for shipping regular vehicles across the country.
- Not ideal for low-clearance or modified cars, as loading angles can be steep.
Open car carriers offer a reliable and affordable way to transport vehicles. If protection from the elements isn’t a top concern, this type of trailer is usually the best choice.
Learn more about Open auto transport
Enclosed Car Carriers
Enclosed car carriers provide full protection from road debris, weather conditions, and potential damage, making them the best option for high-end, classic, or exotic vehicles. Unlike open trailers, enclosed carriers fully shield vehicles, ensuring they arrive in pristine condition. Because of this added protection, enclosed transport is more expensive and less common—accounting for only about 10% of the auto transport fleet in the U.S.
There are three main types of enclosed carriers, each offering different levels of capacity and efficiency:
1. Multi-Level Multi-Car Carrier
- Used by luxury, exotic, and classic car dealerships to transport multiple vehicles securely.
- Can carry several high-value cars at once, making it more efficient than single-level enclosed carriers.
- A preferred option for bulk luxury vehicle transport while maintaining full protection.
- More environmentally friendly than multiple single-car enclosed transports.
2. Single-Level Single-Car Carrier
- Primarily used for short-distance or expedited delivery.
- Ideal for luxury, classic, and rare vehicles that require maximum care.
- Provides the highest level of protection and attention to a single vehicle.
- Often requested for exotic or newly purchased high-value cars where a dedicated transport service is needed.
3. Single-Level Multi-Car Carrier
- Can typically transport two vehicles, providing the same level of protection as a single-car enclosed trailer.
- More cost-effective than booking an individual enclosed trailer for each car.
- A great option for high-end car owners shipping multiple vehicles at once.
- Preferred by collectors and luxury car enthusiasts who need secure transport for more than one car.
If you own a luxury, rare, or classic vehicle, enclosed auto transport is the best choice for ensuring it arrives in perfect condition. While it costs more than open shipping, the added security and protection make it well worth the investment.
How Carrier Type Affects Shipping Cost
The type of carrier you choose directly impacts the cost of shipping. Several factors come into play, including availability, efficiency, and level of protection:
- Open carriers are the most affordable because they are widely available and can transport multiple vehicles at once, reducing per-car costs.
- Enclosed carriers are more expensive due to their limited availability and the added protection they offer against weather and road debris.
- Other factors, such as vehicle type, shipping distance, and transport speed, also affect pricing. Larger vehicles, long-distance shipments, and expedited services typically cost more.
If affordability is your main concern, open transport is the best option. If protecting your car is the priority, enclosed transport is worth the higher price.
Choosing the Right Carrier for Your Vehicle
Selecting the right type of trailer depends on your vehicle, budget, and transport needs:
- Standard vehicles: Open multi-level carriers are the best balance of cost and efficiency.
- High-value, classic, or luxury cars: Enclosed transport provides the safest option.
- Expedited or short-distance moves: Single-car trailers, whether open or enclosed, offer faster delivery with dedicated service.
If you’re unsure which option works best, Corsia Logistics can help you weigh your choices and find the right fit.
Final Thoughts
Your choice of carrier depends on your budget, vehicle type, and specific shipping needs. Open transport is the most practical and economical solution for standard car shipping, while enclosed transport offers extra security for high-value vehicles.
At Corsia Logistics, we provide expert guidance to ensure you make an informed decision. Whether you need an affordable open carrier or a premium enclosed trailer, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free quote and let’s discuss the best shipping option for your car.
