Enclosed Auto Transport - Premium Protection
Ultimate protection for luxury, classic, and exotic vehicles
What is Enclosed Car Shipping?
Enclosed car shipping is a premium vehicle-transport method where your car is carried inside a fully covered trailer rather than on an open carrier. Inside the trailer, the vehicle is shielded on all sides from weather, debris, and external exposure. This service is part of our comprehensive auto transport services designed for high-value and specialty vehicles.
Key Features of Enclosed Transport:
- •Enclosed trailers typically transport fewer vehicles per load than open carriers (2-6 cars)
- •Complete protection from weather, road debris, and external exposure
- •Specialized equipment including hydraulic lift gates for low-clearance vehicles
While open transport is suitable for most everyday vehicles, enclosed transport is the preferred choice for luxury cars, classic automobiles, exotic vehicles, and any car where maintaining pristine condition is paramount. This premium service can also be combined with door-to-door delivery for ultimate convenience.
How Enclosed Transport Works
Here's the typical process for shipping a vehicle via enclosed transport with First Line Transport INC:
Request Quote & Book Service
You provide vehicle details (make, model, condition), origin and destination addresses, and preferred pickup date.
Carrier Arrival & Inspection
The carrier arrives at pickup location with the enclosed trailer. Note that because of its size, access may be more restricted than open carriers. The vehicle is inspected and prepped (cleaned, fuel reduced, any modifications noted).
Secure Loading
The car is loaded into the enclosed trailer via ramps or hydraulic lift gates (especially for low-clearance vehicles) with specialized tie-downs and secure positioning.
Protected Transit
The car rides inside the trailer, protected from elements (rain, snow, road debris) with secure tie-downs, potentially climate control and reduced handling.
Delivery & Final Inspection
Upon arrival, you inspect the vehicle, sign off, and complete delivery. Your vehicle arrives in pristine condition.
Advantages of Enclosed Car Shipping
🛡️ Maximum Protection from Elements
The vehicle is shielded from weather, road salt, debris, insects, and all external hazards during transit.
🔒 Increased Security & Privacy
Because the vehicle is hidden inside the trailer, it's less exposed to theft, vandalism or casual observation.
🏎️ Perfect for Specialty Vehicles
Ideal for luxury cars, exotics, classics, low-clearance cars or vehicles with delicate finishes.
💎 Preserves Vehicle Value
For collector or high-value vehicles, the extra care can protect resale value better than standard shipping.
🔧 Hydraulic Lift Gates Available
Essential for loading and unloading cars with low ground clearance safely without risk of damage.
🌡️ Climate Control Options
Some enclosed carriers offer climate-controlled environments for ultimate protection during extreme weather.
Considerations & Trade-offs
While enclosed transport offers premium protection, there are some factors to consider:
Higher Cost
Enclosed shipping costs significantly more than open shipping because of fewer vehicles per load, specialized equipment, and additional protection.
Limited Availability
Because enclosed carriers are less common and handle fewer vehicles per load, scheduling may be more restricted with longer wait times.
Potentially Slower Transit
Due to scheduling, load constraints or routing, the pickup or delivery window may be less flexible than open transport.
Not Always Necessary
For standard everyday vehicles with no special requirements, the extra cost may not justify the benefits.
Access Restrictions
Enclosed trailers are larger and may have difficulty accessing narrow streets or residential areas with limited clearance.
Average Enclosed Car Shipping Cost Per Mile (2025)
Enclosed car transport service prices are calculated similarly to open car transport, but you'll pay about 35-50% more per trip for the added protection and premium service.
| Distance | Mileage | Enclosed Transport Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Short Routes | 1-500 miles | $2.65/mile (~$750) |
| Medium Routes | 501-1,500 miles | $1.32/mile (~$980) |
| Long Routes | 1,500+ miles | $0.88/mile (~$1,240) |
Note: Prices vary based on vehicle size, weight, modifications, seasonal demand, fuel costs, and specific route. Luxury and exotic vehicles may require additional insurance coverage.
When to Choose Enclosed Transport
Enclosed car shipping is most appropriate when one or more of the following apply:
Luxury or Exotic Vehicles
You're transporting a luxury, exotic, or classic/collector vehicle that you want to keep in pristine condition.
Low Ground Clearance
Your vehicle has low ground clearance, or special modifications that make loading/unloading on an open carrier risky.
Extreme Weather Conditions
You're shipping during winter, heavy salt roads, or through rough terrain and want increased protection.
Pristine Condition Priority
You're very concerned about the appearance and condition of the vehicle upon delivery, and budget is less of a constraint.
High-Value Vehicles
Your vehicle's value justifies the premium cost for maximum protection and security.
Show Cars or Collectibles
You're transporting a show car, rare collectible, or vehicle with custom paint that requires white-glove treatment.
Practical Tips for Using Enclosed Transport
Compare Open vs Enclosed
Get quotes for both options to see whether the extra cost is justified for your specific vehicle.
Book Earlier
Because of limited capacity, scheduling may need more advance notice than open transport—book 3-4 weeks ahead.
Prepare Thoroughly
Clean, note existing damage, limit fuel to ¼ tank, remove personal items, ensure access for lift gates if needed.
Check Special Features
Ask whether the enclosed carrier includes hydraulic lift gates, climate control, or special tie-downs for your vehicle type.
Understand Route & Timing
Ask about pickup and delivery windows, potential for delays, how many other vehicles are in the trailer.
Verify Insurance Coverage
Because you're entrusting a higher-value vehicle, ensure the carrier's liability/insurance levels are appropriate.
Document Everything
Take detailed photos before pickup and after delivery. Document any pre-existing damage thoroughly.
Consider Value vs Cost
If your vehicle is standard, open carrier may suffice; but if value is high, enclosed is the smarter choice.
Why Choose First Line Transport INC for Enclosed Auto Transport?
We make enclosed transport secure, transparent, and reliable
Trusted Network of Carriers
Our team personally vets each and every enclosed car hauler company in our network to ensure you're getting a trusted, dependable service.
- •Experienced classic car haulers
- •Specialized equipment available
- •Superior compliance standards
Enhanced Insurance Coverage
All carrier companies are vetted for compliance with higher insurance standards, assuring your vehicle has additional coverage during transit.
- •Higher coverage limits
- •Comprehensive protection
- •Peace of mind guarantee
Transparent Pricing
Clear quotes with no hidden fees. We explain exactly what you're paying for and why enclosed transport is worth the investment.
- •TruePrice 30-day guarantee
- •No surprise charges
- •Detailed price breakdowns
White-Glove Service
Premium handling for your valuable vehicle from pickup to delivery. We treat your car like the treasure it is.
- •Careful loading/unloading
- •Dedicated support team
- •Real-time tracking updates
Do I Need Enclosed Car Transport?
Ask yourself these questions to determine if enclosed transport is right for you:
Is it a classic, luxury or collectible vehicle?
High-value vehicles deserve premium protection to maintain their condition and value.
Are you concerned about harsh weather?
Shipping during winter or through areas with extreme weather conditions? Enclosed is your best bet.
Worried about debris or road hazards?
Enclosed carriers shield your vehicle from rocks, dirt, and other road hazards during transit.
Does it have any modifications?
Custom paint, lowered suspension, or special features require the extra care of enclosed transport.
If you answered YES to any of these questions, enclosed transport is the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is enclosed car shipping?
Enclosed car shipping is a premium vehicle transport method where your car is carried inside a fully covered trailer, providing complete protection from weather, debris, and external exposure. It's ideal for luxury, classic, and exotic vehicles.
How much does enclosed auto transport cost?
Enclosed auto transport costs 35-50% more than open transport. Prices range from $2.65/mile for short routes to $0.88/mile for long routes, with additional costs for luxury vehicles and specialized equipment like hydraulic lift gates.
When should I choose enclosed transport?
Choose enclosed transport for luxury, classic, exotic vehicles, cars with low ground clearance, during extreme weather conditions, or when pristine condition is a priority and budget allows for premium protection.
How long does enclosed transport take?
Enclosed transport typically takes the same time as open transport (1-7 days depending on distance), but scheduling may require more advance notice due to limited availability of enclosed carriers.
What vehicles need enclosed transport?
Vehicles that benefit from enclosed transport include luxury cars, classic automobiles, exotic sports cars, vehicles with custom paint jobs, lowered cars, collectibles, and any high-value vehicle where maintaining pristine condition is essential.
Related Auto Transport Guides
Open vs Enclosed Transport
Compare open and enclosed transport methods to determine which option best fits your vehicle and budget needs.
Learn About Open Transport →Door-to-Door Service
Combine enclosed transport with door-to-door service for the ultimate in convenience and vehicle protection.
Explore Door-to-Door Service →Conclusion
Enclosed auto transport is the premium choice for protecting valuable, luxury, classic, and exotic vehicles during shipping. While it costs more than open transport, the complete protection from weather, debris, and external hazards makes it worthwhile for high-value vehicles.
First Line Transport INC specializes in enclosed transport with trusted carriers, enhanced insurance coverage, and white-glove service for your valuable vehicles.
Ready to Ship Your Vehicle Safely?
Get a free quote for enclosed auto transport and experience premium protection for your valuable vehicle.