Is Enclosed Transport Better Than Open Transport?

Imagine your favorite toy car getting wet in the rain or covered in dust on a long road trip. That’s what can happen to real cars in open transport! Enclosed transport is like giving your car a cozy, protective blanket, keeping it safe from bad weather, dirt, and even curious eyes. Curious to know why this matters? Let’s dive into the world of car transport and discover why enclosed is the way to go!

Advantages of Enclosed Transport

1. Enclosed Transport Ensures Safe Delivery

With enclosed transport, your vehicle is transported in a trailer with solid, weather-proof walls on all sides. This means your car stays safe from rain, snow, dirt, and other outside elements during its journey. This is especially important for luxury, classic, or custom vehicles that need extra care.

However, enclosed transport is pricier and can take longer because there aren’t as many carriers available. But if protecting your vehicle is a top priority, the peace of mind is worth the extra cost and wait.

Scott Chesarek, Co-Founder, J&S Transportation

2. Reduced Risk of Uninsured Damage

Having an enclosed trailer means your vehicle is less likely to get any damages, which can save you a lot when it comes to insurance. Typically enclosed transports are much safer compared to open transports & costs less to get insured.

If your vehicle is uninsured, loading them on an open trailer can be a stressful procedure. Plus handling of the vehicle on open transport can cause damages from outside, which can be disastrous.

3. Protects from Outside Damage

Enclosed transport is the better option because it keeps the vehicle protected from damage during transit. Open transport exposes vehicles to flying debris, harsh weather, and dust buildup from the road. Even a small rock flicked up at high speed is enough to chip paint or crack a windshield. Rain and wind leave marks that need buffing out, and constant exposure to sun fades paintwork. None of that happens with enclosed transport because the vehicle is sealed inside a controlled environment, keeping it in the same condition it was loaded in.

In our business, we work with commercial clients who invest a lot in high-end electrical equipment. When we need to transport delicate gear like industrial switchboards, generators, or custom lighting systems, we always arrange for enclosed transport.

Daniel Vasilevski, Director & Owner, Bright Force Electrical

Disadvantages of Enclosed Transport

1. Enclosed Transport Is Expensive Compared To Open Transport

One major downside of enclosed transport is the cost. Enclosed transport tends to be more expensive than open transport. This is because enclosed trailers can carry fewer vehicles at a time, which means the cost for each car goes up.

Additionally, these trailers are often specialized and need more care & add to the expenses. While enclosed transport offers peace of mind and shields your vehicle from weather and road debris, it’s important to weigh whether this extra protection is worth the higher price.

For those on a tight budget, open transport might be a more affordable option. In the end, the choice comes down to how much you value the added safety of enclosed transport versus saving money with open transport. 

2. Can Cause Delays Due To Vehicle Shortage.

While this option offers top-notch protection from weather, road debris, and potential damage, it often comes with a catch: delays. You might wonder why this happens.

The main reason is the limited number of enclosed transport vehicles available. Compared to open carriers, which are more common, enclosed trailers are fewer and far between. This scarcity means that finding an available enclosed transporter at the right time can be challenging.

Also, enclosed transports often run on more specific schedules, catering to high-value vehicles that require special attention. As demand for these services grows, especially during busy times like holidays or car shows, waiting times for an available slot can increase.

So, if you’re considering enclosed transport, it’s wise to plan ahead. Book early to ensure your vehicle stays protected and arrives on time. 

Open VS Enclosed Transport: Which is better for you?

When deciding between open and enclosed transport for your vehicle, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. Open transport is the more common choice, often used by dealerships and individuals due to its affordability. With open transport, your vehicle is loaded onto a trailer along with several others, which keeps costs down. However, this method leaves your car exposed to the elements, such as rain, dust, and debris, potentially leading to minor damage during transit.

On the flip side, enclosed transport offers a higher level of protection. Your vehicle travels in a covered trailer, shielding it from weather and road conditions. This option is especially appealing for luxury, classic, or high-value cars where preservation is key. The trade-off is cost, as enclosed transport is more expensive and may take longer to arrange due to limited availability. 

Conclusion

In summary, if budget constraints are paramount and your car is a regular model, open transport is a practical choice. But if you own a prized or delicate vehicle and prioritize its protection, the additional cost of enclosed transport is a worthy investment. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your priorities of cost versus care.