For most people, the priority of transporting cars, whether high-end, vintage, or exotic, is ensuring safety. For car owners opting for the most secure and dependable method of interstate or cross-country shipping, enclosed auto transport is the solution. Unlike open transport, enclosed trailers deliver total protection against the elements, road debris, and potential prying eyes. However, the most common question for car owners is How much does it cost to ship a car?
In this guide, the pricing structure of enclosed auto transport and the common cost influencers will be covered, as well as the reasons why enclosed transport is the preferred choice for Luxury Car Transport.
Analysis of Enclosed Auto Transport
Auto transport is a premium car shipping method that includes your vehicle traveling in a completely covered trailer to ensure safety. These trailers have lift gates, soft tie downs, and climate control in order to protect the vehicle from any sustained damage, in addition to external damage.
This service is particularly appropriate for:
- Exotic or supercars
- Luxury vehicles such as Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and Teslas
- Classic and vintage automobiles
- Customized and modified vehicles
- High-value sports cars
While open transport is more affordable, enclosed transport provides protection and privacy. This is most valuable to individuals when transporting vehicles that hold more than just monetary value.
Why Select Enclosed Auto Transport?
Every dealer and owner of luxury and collector cars knows that even the smallest damage can tarnish a car and can be costly to repair. Enclosed auto transport is cherished for the following reasons:
- Complete Weather Protection. There is no exposure to the elements in any form, be it rain, snow, hail, or extreme sunlight.
- Road Debris Shield. Dust, gravel, and any other damaging road particles do not pose a threat to your vehicle’s surface.
- Privacy and Security. No one can see your car while in a transport trailer, and this includes thieves.
- Specialized Handling. Use of hydraulic lift systems and soft straps minimizes the risk of scratches and dents.
- Climate Control. Many enclosed auto carriers offer temperature-controlled environments to preserve delicate interiors, paintwork, and finishes.
These are a few reasons why enclosed shipping remains a popular choice when it comes to Luxury Car Transport, notwithstanding its higher cost relative to standard practices.
What Is the Price of Transporting a Car in an Enclosed Trailer?
What is the price of enclosed trailer transport? That is the burning question.
For shorter distances, estimated costs of enclosed transport (under 500 miles) are around 1.50 to 2.50 per mile, while longer distances (over 1,000 miles) are around 0.90 to 1.50 per mile. Most luxury car owners pay $1,000 to 2,500, depending on the route and the type of vehicle.
While it is true that enclosed shipping costs 30-60% more than open transport, the higher cost is a reflection of the added professional care and protection provided.
What Affects Enclosed Transport Prices?
There are a number of reasons that can influence the price of your enclosed car shipping service. Knowing these reasons will assist in making a more reasoned choice and help in the planning of your transport in a more efficient manner.
Distance and Location
Longer routes will result in greater costs overall. However, the cost of each mile will usually get cheaper the longer the distance. When shipping routes between major cities, costs will be cheaper due to the abundance of carriers. More remote or rural locations will cost more.
Vehicle Size and Weight
Cost will also depend on the size and weight of the vehicle. Heavier vehicles will take up more space and add more weight to the trailer, which will increase costs. For example, shipping sports cars and sedans is cheaper than shipping bigger vehicles, like SUVs and trucks.
Time of Year
Prices may vary between different times of the year due to seasonal demand, like summer or winter. This is especially true for summer, when many people relocate, or in winter, when snowbirds ship cars to warmer states. Booking in advance will let you secure better rates.
Enclosed Trailer Type
Soft-sided and hard-sided are the two main types of enclosed trailers. Soft-sided trailers are cheaper but provide slightly less protection. Hard-sided trailers are often used for Luxury Car Transport because they provide complete shielding and climate control, which is ideal for high-value vehicles.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Service
The convenience of door-to-door shipping is that the car is picked up and delivered directly to your chosen locations. However, this convenience will cost more than using terminal-based services.
Delivery Timeframe
Increased costs are to be anticipated for expedited or guaranteed delivery. Special arrangements and dedicated carriers usually involve additional costs for rush service.
The Benefits of Paying More for Enclosed Auto Transport
When transporting a vehicle valued in the tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars, it is reasonable to prioritize the safest and most secure option. The investment in enclosed transport is worth it for the additional protective measures, the greater care and handling, and the personalized service, all of which are critical in maintaining a vehicle’s value and its optimal condition.
The following are the most critical advantages:
- Fewer vehicles are placed per trailer (typically 2 to 6 as opposed to 8 to 10 for open transport)
- Dedicated and personalized care for your vehicle
- Insurance limits are often significantly greater than typical transport policies for the value of the car in transit
- Highly trained and skilled drivers who are familiar with and specialize in luxury and exotic car transport.
To summarize, enclosed transport services do not simply relocate your car.
Selecting Luxury Car Transport Services
Choosing an appropriate company is critical to the success of your transportation. When conducting your search, it is best to narrow it to companies that focus on Luxury Car Transport. This will expedite the selection process. Consider the following:
- Due Diligence with Licensing and Insurance: Confirm all registrations with the FMCSA and the USDOT.
- Experience with High-Value Vehicles: There should be a history of enclosed trailer shipments and positive customer feedback.
- Cost Transparency: Look out for rough estimates and contracts. A reliable professional will provide an all-inclusive price and a signed contract.
- Real-Time Tracking: Confirm the contractor will provide a way to monitor your vehicle through GPS.
- Customer Reviews: Look for feedback that assesses the quality and trustworthiness of the service.
Peace of mind is valuable, and the best companies will provide it for you and care for your vehicle as well.
Conclusion
Enclosed car transport is a critical necessity when transporting a high-value vehicle. The additional expense to cover the trailer is a small price to pay for the optimal security that the transport will be free of external elements. Even for transits that will be open to public view, the total peace of mind that enclosed transport offers is worth the higher price.
Curious about the price of safely and efficiently transporting a car? It varies depending on the distance, season, and level of service. One constant, however, is the peace of mind that comes with trusting Luxury Car Transport. It is a worthwhile investment.
The enclosed transport option should be used when moving interstate, going to an auto show, or selling a high-end vehicle. It will ensure that your car will reach its destination just as it left: safe and intact.