The Ultimate Guide to Enclosed Auto Transport Services
By The Car Carriage
Introduction
When it comes to shipping your vehicle, especially one that holds significant value—whether financial or sentimental—enclosed auto transport services offer a premium solution that provides peace of mind. Unlike open transport, where vehicles are exposed to the elements, enclosed carriers provide comprehensive protection throughout the journey. At The Car Carriage, we’ve helped thousands of customers safely transport their vehicles using enclosed carriers, and we’re sharing our expertise to help you understand this specialized service.
What Are Enclosed Auto Transport Services?
Enclosed auto transport involves shipping vehicles in fully covered trailers that protect cars from external elements like weather, road debris, and potential theft. These specialized carriers typically transport fewer vehicles at once compared to open carriers, allowing for more personalized attention to each vehicle.
When Should You Choose Enclosed Transport?
Enclosed transport is particularly beneficial for:
- Luxury vehicles (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bentley, etc.)
- Classic or vintage cars
- Exotic sports cars
- Show cars or recently restored vehicles
- Vehicles with low ground clearance
- Motorcycles requiring extra protection
- Cars with custom paint jobs or modifications
Benefits of Enclosed Auto Transport
Superior Protection
The primary advantage of enclosed transport is the comprehensive protection it provides. Your vehicle remains shielded from:
- Rain, snow, hail, and extreme temperatures
- Road debris, rocks, and gravel
- UV ray exposure that can fade paint
- Dust and dirt accumulation
Enhanced Security
Enclosed trailers offer significantly better security measures than open carriers. Your vehicle remains out of sight during transit, reducing the risk of theft or vandalism. Many enclosed trailers also feature advanced security systems and are constantly monitored.
Specialized Equipment
Enclosed carriers typically come equipped with specialized loading equipment like hydraulic lift gates, which are ideal for low-clearance vehicles. This ensures safer loading and unloading processes with minimal risk of damage.
Dedicated Service
With fewer vehicles being transported simultaneously (typically 2-6 compared to 8-10 on open carriers), enclosed transport often means more attentive service from drivers who specialize in handling high-value vehicles.
What to Expect: The Enclosed Transport Process
1. Detailed Inspection
Before loading, a thorough inspection of your vehicle will be conducted, documenting its condition with photographs. This creates a baseline for comparing the vehicle’s condition upon delivery.
2. Careful Loading
Using specialized equipment, your vehicle will be carefully loaded into the enclosed trailer. Soft straps are used to secure the vehicle without risking damage to the body or undercarriage.
3. Transportation
During transit, your vehicle remains protected in the enclosed environment. The driver maintains appropriate speeds and takes care to navigate roads that minimize vibration and potential impacts.
4. Delivery and Final Inspection
Upon arrival, another detailed inspection is performed to ensure the vehicle arrived in the same condition it departed. Only then is the delivery process completed.
Cost Considerations
Enclosed auto transport typically costs 30-50% more than open transport due to:
- Specialized equipment requirements
- Lower vehicle capacity per trailer
- Higher insurance requirements
- Additional training for drivers
- Enhanced security features
While the premium may seem significant, it’s often a small price compared to potential repair costs or diminished value that could result from damage during transport in an open carrier.
Making the Right Choice for Your Vehicle
Consider enclosed auto transport if:
- Your vehicle exceeds $50,000 in value
- You’re transporting a rare or irreplaceable vehicle
- Your car has significant sentimental value
- You’re shipping during harsh weather conditions
- The vehicle has custom features or modifications
- Peace of mind is your top priority
Conclusion
Enclosed auto transport services represent the gold standard in vehicle shipping, offering unparalleled protection and security for your valuable automobile. While it comes at a premium cost, the investment provides reassurance that your vehicle will arrive at its destination in the same pristine condition in which it departed.
At The Car Carriage, we understand that your vehicle isn’t just a means of transportation—it’s an investment, a passion, and often an extension of your identity. That’s why we’re committed to providing the highest quality enclosed transport services, ensuring your prized possession receives the protection it deserves from origin to destination.
Whether you’re relocating cross-country, purchasing a vehicle remotely, or sending your classic car to a show, enclosed auto transport delivers the premium care and protection your vehicle deserves. Call 855-723-3200 to get your free quote today!
