When it comes to transporting vehicles, whether you’re shipping your prized sports car or a reliable family SUV, you’ll quickly encounter two key options—open and enclosed transport. With their differing approaches and price points, deciding between them can be challenging, especially for auto enthusiasts who want the best for their vehicles.
But how do these options stack up in 2025? What exactly influences their price tags, and which is more economical depending on your specific needs? This guide will provide a detailed cost comparison and breakdown to help you make an informed decision.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport Explained
Before we dig into the numbers, let’s break down what open and enclosed transport really mean.
What is Open Transport?
Open transport involves shipping vehicles on open trailers, meaning they are exposed to the elements like rain, dust, and road debris. This is the most commonly used and cost-effective method for transporting vehicles. Open carriers typically haul multiple vehicles at once, making it a popular choice for everyday cars and budget-conscious customers.
What is Enclosed Transport?
Enclosed transport uses trailers with walls and roofs to completely shield vehicles from external conditions. It’s the go-to option for high-end, classic, or vintage vehicles where protection is a top priority. This premium service is often selected when customers aim to preserve their vehicle’s pristine condition during long hauls.
Now that we’ve defined both options, let’s examine what drives their costs.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Open Transport
Open transport is known for being wallet-friendly, but what exactly determines the final cost?
1. Number of Vehicles Hauled
Open trailers typically carry up to 10 vehicles at once, which spreads the overall transportation cost among multiple customers. The higher sharing capacity makes this option more affordable.
2. Route and Distance
Longer routes generally mean higher expenses, especially if the delivery travels across difficult terrains. However, open transport benefits from more frequent routes and broader carrier availability, which can help keep costs lower compared to enclosed options.
3. Vehicle Size and Weight
Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs will cost more to ship compared to compact sedans due to their weight and space requirements on the trailer.
4. Demand Fluctuations
Demand for car shipping tends to spike during certain times, such as summer months or around holidays. While higher demand might drive up prices slightly, open transport is less affected by market fluctuations thanks to its widespread availability.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport is a premium service, and as expected, it comes with a higher price tag. Here are the primary factors impacting enclosed transport costs.
1. Smaller Capacity
Enclosed trailers can typically carry just 2 to 7 vehicles, which reduces the ability to distribute costs across multiple customers. This is a major reason why enclosed transport is priced higher.
2. Enhanced Protection
The attention to detail that comes with enclosed transport, like additional safety straps or climate control, often adds to the overall cost. It ensures the utmost care for high-value shipments.
3. Specialized Drivers
Transporting vehicles on enclosed carriers often requires experienced drivers with specialized expertise, which raises labor costs.
4. Customized Services
Enclosed transport frequently includes tailored services such as white-glove handling or liftgate loading, further increasing expenses.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport Cost Comparison in 2025
The cost difference between open and enclosed transport is significant, but understanding the specifics will help you make the right decision. Below is a snapshot of average costs for 2025 based on typical scenarios.
| Transport Type | Average Cost (Sedan, 500 miles) | Average Cost (SUV, 500 miles) | Average Cost (Luxury/Vintage, 500 miles) |
| Open Transport | $650 – $850 | $800 – $1,000 | Not Recommended |
| Enclosed Transport | $1,200 – $1,500 | $1,400 – $1,800 | $1,800 – $3,000 |
For everyday sedans or SUVs, open transport provides a cost-effective solution. However, for luxury or vintage vehicles, accounted-for expenses in enclosed transport are nearly inevitable due to the level of care involved.
When to Opt for Open Transport
Open transport is ideal in the following scenarios:
- You’re shipping a standard, everyday vehicle.
- Cost savings are a priority.
- The vehicle is not particularly sensitive to minor exposure to weather or dust.
Open transport ensures reliable delivery without burning a hole in your wallet.
When to Opt for Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport is highly recommended if:
- You’re transporting a luxury, exotic, or classic car.
- Your vehicle has a high sentimental or financial value.
- The route involves extreme weather conditions or rough terrains.
- Protection against road debris, rain, or snow is a non-negotiable.
Peace of mind is priceless when the safety of your prized vehicle is concerned.
Recommendations for Auto Enthusiasts
If you’re an auto enthusiast who frequently ships vehicles or simply plans to transport your car in 2025, here’s how to make the right choice:
- Know Your Vehicle: Identify the value of your vehicle and its need for protection.
- Assess Your Budget: Determine what you’re willing to spend and weigh it against the level of service required.
- Choose the Right Provider: Work with a trusted car hauler, such as Safe Car Hauling Inc, to ensure reliable, high-quality service with transparent pricing models.
Whether you’re shipping a reliable family car or a prized collector’s item, Safe Car Hauling Inc has you covered with both open and enclosed transport options tailored to your unique needs.
Make Your Move with Confidence
Shipping your vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding your options and knowing the costs, you can make an informed choice that fits your budget and priorities.
Need expert advice on choosing between open and enclosed transport? Safe Car Hauling Inc offers seamless and secure auto transport solutions. Contact us today for a free quote and ship your vehicle with peace of mind!