When planning to ship a vehicle across states or countries, choosing the right shipping option is crucial for the safety and convenience of both the owner and their car. Two common options for vehicle transportation are open carriers and enclosed carriers. A clear understanding of these options will help you make an informed decision suitable for your specific needs.
Open Carrier Transportation
Open carrier transportation is the most common method used for car transport and shipping cars. Vehicles are loaded onto an open multi-car trailer, usually capable of carrying between eight and ten vehicles at a time. Open carrier trucks are also the preferred choice by automakers when transporting new cars from factories to dealerships.
Pros of Open Carrier Transportation
1. Affordability: The open carrier method is more budget-friendly compared to enclosed carriers due to its larger capacity, enabling shippers to transport more vehicles with a single trip. This saves on fuel costs and results in lower prices for customers.
2. Availability: Majority of auto transports in operation are open carriers, making them more readily available for booking compared to their enclosed counterparts.
3. Faster transit times: Due to their higher availability, open carriers can often result in shorter wait times and faster delivery schedules since they require fewer bookings before departing on trips.
4. Versatility: Open carriers can accommodate a wide range of vehicles, from sedans and pickup trucks to SUVs and minivans. Some open carriers are also specifically designed for transporting oversized or heavy vehicles.
Cons of Open Carrier Transportation
1. Exposure to elements: Since vehicles are not protected by an enclosure, they are exposed to rain, snow, hail, and other weather elements during transit. Furthermore, they may be subjected to dirt, dust, debris, insects, and bird droppings. However, it is important to note that the likelihood of damage during transit is still relatively low.
2. Lack of privacy: In an open carrier transport option, your vehicle will be visible to the public throughout the shipping process.
Enclosed Carrier Transportation
Enclosed carrier transportation involves placing vehicles inside a closed trailer that offers protection against external elements. Enclosed carriers typically hold fewer cars compared to an open carrier – between two and six vehicles – which leads to higher shipping costs per car but added safety benefits.
Pros of Enclosed Carrier Transportation
1. Protection from elements: Vehicles transported using enclosed carriers are well-protected from the weather elements such as rain, hailstorm or snow as well as road debris during transit. This method is ideal for shipping high-end luxury cars or classic/vintage cars that require added protection.
2. Increased security: The enclosed nature of these carriers offers more privacy and security for your vehicle while in storage and transit. This reduces the risk of vandalism or theft incidents.
3. Cushioned suspension system: Enclosed car carriers often come with specially designed cushioned suspension systems, providing a gentler and safer ride than open carriers, particularly for long journeys.
Cons of Enclosed Carrier Transportation
1. Higher cost: Enclosed carrier shipping is generally more expensive than open carrier transportation due to the higher operating costs associated with it. Also, since these trailers can carry fewer vehicles per trip, the revenue from transporting multiple vehicles will be less compared to open carriers.
2. Reduced availability: As there are fewer enclosed carriers in operation, it may take longer to find an available transporter matching your requirements and schedule.
3. Narrow loading entrance: The entrances on some enclosed carriers may not accommodate very wide or low-profile cars easily. This can limit the type of vehicles suitable for enclosed transportation.
Selecting the Right Option: Comparing Costs and Requirements
In order to select the right option for shipping your vehicle, you should first assess your needs and budgetary constraints. If cost savings rank high in priority, an open carrier will typically suffice for most standard vehicles as they often offer more affordable rates.
If you own a high-value luxury car or one possessing some sentimental value – like a vintage or classic automobile – then opting for an enclosed carrier would make sense despite its higher cost. Doing so ensures extra peace of mind while ensuring that your vehicle remains well-protected throughout the shipping process.
You may also want to consider local weather patterns during your shipment – such as seasonal rainstorms or extreme temperatures – when choosing between open and enclosed car carriers. In case an area suffering from harsh weather conditions lies on the route of transit must be traversed, it might be worth considering going with an enclosed option for added protection.
Lastly, always conduct thorough research and read reviews when selecting an auto transport company. Doing so will ensure a seamless and hassle-free vehicle shipment regardless of the method you choose.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between open and enclosed carrier transportation methods narrows down to your individual requirements, budget, and priorities. By understanding the pros and cons associated with each option, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs – ensuring a safe and efficient moving process for your beloved vehicle.