Shipping a Car in an Enclosed Trailer

The two main types of car transport services are open and enclosed trailer shipping. Open trailer shipping is the most common method and is often used for short distances or for more budget-conscious customers. This method of shipping can leave your vehicle exposed to harsh weather, road debris, and dirt.
Enclosed trailer shipping, on the other hand, is the best option for long-distance car transport and for high-value vehicles. Enclosed trailers offer full protection from weather and other external factors, ensuring that your car arrives at its destination in pristine condition.

Shipping your car in an enclosed trailer offers several benefits, including:

Protection from Weather and Road Debris

Enclosed trailers offer complete protection from harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and wind. Additionally, your car will be protected from rocks, debris, and other road hazards that can damage it during transport.

Increased Security

Enclosed trailers are more secure than open trailers, as they offer complete protection against theft and vandalism. The trailers are fully enclosed and equipped with locks, ensuring that your car is safe throughout the journey.

Greater Peace of Mind

Shipping your car in an enclosed trailer provides greater peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is protected from any damage or theft during transit.

Suitable for High-Value Cars

Enclosed trailers are ideal for shipping high-value cars such as vintage or luxury cars that require extra care during transport.

There are two types of enclosed trailers.

Hard-sided:

Hard-sided trailers are fully enclosed and made of metal, offering the highest level of protection for your vehicle.

Soft-sided:

Soft-sided trailers, also known as "covered trailers," are made of canvas or other lightweight materials and offer a slightly lower level of protection than hard-sided trailers.

Before shipping your car in an enclosed trailer, there are several things you should do to ensure your car is prepared for transport. These include:

Clean Your Car

Cleaning your car before shipping it, will allow you to inspect it for any pre-existing damage and also helps prevent any dirt or debris from damaging your car during transport.

Remove Personal Belongings

Remove all personal belongings from your car before transport. Personal items can shift during transit and damage your car.

Check Fluids and Battery

Before shipping your car, you should check all fluids, including oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. You should also ensure that your car battery is fully charged and securely mounted.

Disable Alarm Systems

If your car has an alarm system, make sure to disable it before shipping. This will prevent any false alarms from going off during transport.

Check Tire Pressure

Check your car's tire pressure and ensure they are properly inflated. This will help prevent any damage to your tires during transit.

When choosing an enclosed trailer shipping company, there are several factors to consider. These include:

Experience and Reputation

Choose a shipping company with experience in enclosed trailer transport and a positive reputation in the industry.

Insurance and Liability Coverage

Make sure the shipping company provides adequate insurance coverage for your car during transport. This will give you peace of mind in case of any damages during transit.

Customer Service

Choose a shipping company with excellent customer service, including clear communication and timely updates on the status of your shipment.

Cost

Compare the costs of different shipping companies to find one that fits your budget while still providing high-quality service.

The cost of shipping your car in an enclosed trailer can vary depending on several factors, including:

Distance

The farther the distance, the higher the cost of shipping.

Type of Vehicle

The cost of shipping varies based on the size, weight, and value of the vehicle.

Season

The cost of shipping may be higher during peak season or holiday periods.

Insurance and Liability Coverage

Make sure to discuss insurance coverage with the shipping company before transport. Some companies offer basic coverage, while others offer full coverage or additional insurance options for high-value vehicles.

To ensure the safe transport of your vehicle, follow these best practices:

Choose the Right Shipping Company

Choose a reputable shipping company with experience in enclosed trailer transport.

Inspect Your Car Before and After Transport

Inspect your car thoroughly before and after transport to ensure it arrives in the same condition it was in when it was loaded onto the trailer.

Communicate with the Shipping Company

Maintain clear communication with the shipping company, including providing accurate pickup and delivery times and notifying them of any changes.

Securely Fasten Your Car

Make sure your car is securely fastened and immobilized during transport to prevent any shifting or damage.

Shipping your car in an enclosed trailer offers many benefits, including greater protection from weather, road debris, and theft. By choosing a reputable shipping company with experience in enclosed trailer transport, adequate insurance coverage, and excellent customer service, you can ensure a safe and stress-free transport experience.
Remember to follow best practices such as inspecting your car before and after transport, securely fastening your car, and maintaining clear communication with the shipping company. With these tips in mind, you can confidently ship your car in an enclosed trailer.