You will find two general types of car carrier trailers - open and enclosed. However, we have to further distinguish the various types of open and enclosed trailers. Below, we have a short guide to help you learn about the various trailers used for long and short distance car shipping.
Open Car Carriers
The most widely used trailer is the open type. These truck trailers are ubiquitous on the road. They are the standard mode for transporting vehicles. It is the fastest and the most efficient mode as well.
1. single car carrier
2. single-level multi-car carrier
3. multi-level multi-car carrier
Single car carrier
First is the single-vehicle hotshot trailer. This is a dully truck with a tow trailer, which is usually a single level. The single level hot-shot is mostly used for short distances. Yet, it could be booked for a long-distance deliveries as well, for a special delivery request that requires expedited shipping.
Single-level multi-car carrier
Second is the single-level multi-car carrier, which is often used for all types of vehicles. On such a trailer you can ship an RV or a travel trailer, a big SUV or transport a pick-up truck.
One of the biggest advantages of this carrier is that it can get to places not accessible to the big multi level multi-car carrier trucks.
Who uses single level multi-car carrier? Luxury, vintage and collector car owners, dealerships and sports car owners book it for expedited car shipping and special deliveries.
When even the smallest scratch can turn into an expensive repair job, booking a single car carrier service is the best option.
Multi-level multi-car carrier
And lastly, we have a multi-level multi-cart carrier. This a standard widely used auto transport trailer. When businesses and private customers need to ship cars across the country, this is the preferred type of car carrier.
If your car has low clearance, we recommend a single-level car trailer. This would be a flatbed trailer designed for one or more cars, and it is preferred for any modified or non-running vehicle.
You can also opt for a standard double level trailer, but the single deck offers faster service because the multi-car double deck truck will requires more time to fill all available car spots.
Enclosed Car Carriers
Enclosed vehicle transport trailers are fully covered trucks that will protect your vehicle from road and weather elements during transport. An enclosed trailer is usually hard-sided and completely shields the vehicle.
1. multi-level multi-car carrier
2. single-level single-car carrier
3. single-level multi-car carrier
Multi-level multi-car carrier
This is the type of trailer most sports, luxury and classic car dealerships use for their vehicles. All specialized dealerships Corsia works with recommend enclosed trailer to their customers. Using a multi-level multi-car carrier is more efficient and climate friendly than single level-single car carrier, when it comes to enclosed auto transport.
Single level single car trailer
Single-level single-car carrier most often hauls short distances. Such carriers are booked for high-end cars or when expedited delivery is needed.
Single level multi-car carrier usually fits two cars. It is very similar to the single level one car carrier. Usually, sports, luxury, and classic vehicle owners and dealerships request enclosed auto transport. It is normal for exotic and high-end vehicles to have expensive paint job, or for classic cars to have undergone a costly restoration process. Therefore, owners and dealers want to make sure such vehicles are protected from the road and weather elements.
Single level multi-car carrier
This type of carrier is usually used for high-end automobiles, just like as the single-level single car carrier. This type is a bit more efficient and customers with multiple vehicles prefer it for cross country shipping.
What is the cost to ship a car?
The real cost to ship a car is a price that reflects current market conditions. An accurate rate will guarantee timely and professional service, no matter the type of trailer.
The type of carrier you choose always affects the price of shipping. The cost of enclosed auto transport is usually higher. In the U.S., only about ten percent of the entire fleet are covered carriers. Hence, this type of auto transport is less available.
We encourage you to call us and ask questions because we want you to make an informed decision. You have the right to a stress-free car shipping process and we are here to make it happen.
We are here to help you understand the process and ship your car with a peace of mind.
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