The choice between open and enclosed transport comes down to what you’re shipping and how much protection it needs.
Open transport
This is the hauler you see on the highway, carrying several cars on an open trailer. It’s the most common and most affordable option, and it moves the vast majority of vehicles safely every day. For a daily driver, it’s the sensible choice.
Enclosed transport
Your vehicle rides inside a covered trailer, shielded from weather, road debris, and view. It’s the standard for classic cars, exotics, and any vehicle where condition on arrival is non-negotiable. Because enclosed trailers carry fewer cars, it costs more — and our calculator shows the enclosed price instantly.
How to decide
Ask yourself: would a chip of road debris or a rain shower change how you feel about this car arriving? For most cars, no — open transport is right. For a collector or high-value vehicle, enclosed is worth it.
What stays the same
Whichever you choose, ShiftHaul verifies the carrier the same way: confirmed by SMS to their FMCSA phone, insurance confirmed with their agent, and the driver’s location and VIN plate checked at pickup. Verification is included on every load, open or enclosed.
Ready to move a car? Get an instant quote — carrier verification included.