Enclosed Auto Transport
for High-Value Vehicles

Enclosed service typically runs 40-80% more than open on the same route. For a coast-to-coast sedan shipment that would cost $1,100 open, enclosed would be $1,600-$2,000. The premium reflects smaller load sizes (2-6 vehicles vs. 7-10), specialized equipment, and more experienced drivers.

Hard-side trailers are fully sealed metal boxes — complete protection from all elements, zero visibility from outside. Soft-side trailers use heavy-duty vinyl or canvas covers that block weather and road debris but aren't as rigid. Hard-side is the standard for vehicles over $150,000; soft-side works well for luxury dailies in the $75,000-$150,000 range.

If your vehicle is worth over $75,000, has custom paint, is a classic or collector car, or has very low ground clearance — enclosed is strongly recommended. For a standard luxury sedan you drive daily, open transport is perfectly safe, but many owners choose enclosed for peace of mind.

All carriers carry cargo liability insurance. Enclosed carriers often carry higher coverage limits ($250,000-$1,000,000 per vehicle vs. $100,000-$250,000 for open). We verify coverage levels before assigning any carrier to a high-value shipment and can arrange supplemental coverage if needed.

We recommend 10-14 days for major corridors and 2-3 weeks for less common routes. Enclosed carrier availability is significantly more limited than open — there are roughly 10 open carriers for every 1 enclosed. Last-minute enclosed bookings are possible but carry a premium of $300-$600.

Yes. Most enclosed carriers equipped for exotic vehicles have hydraulic lift gates that raise the vehicle to deck level without a ramp. This eliminates scraping concerns for cars with 3-4 inches of ground clearance like Lamborghini Huracans, Ferrari 488s, and lowered custom builds.