When it comes to shipping vehicles, clients are normally faced with a choice between an open and enclosed auto transport service. Just as the names suggest, it is means either having your car exposed or covered when in transit. Both options will get your car where you want it delivered, but the ride and handling will vary somewhat.
Security and Protection
Having your car in an enclosed trailer will certainly ensure it is better protected from theft, burglary, and vandalism. The trailer will be locked and since the contents are out of sight, any potential wrongdoer will not know what the contents are.
Covered auto transport service also ensures your car is protected from the elements. Dust, road debris, rain, and snow are just some of the physical challenges your vehicle may have to contend with along the way. If it has an expensive custom paint job or is a convertible without the top, you will naturally want extra protection to ensure it is not damaged. An auto transport company that offers this service will be your best option.
Low Clearance
Certain vehicles have a low clearance that can make it more complicated to safely load them onto a trailer. This is common for those with a ground clearance of four inches or less. Enclosed trailers make use of hydraulic lifts or racing ramps to load cars. Hydraulic lifts load the vehicle horizontally while racing ramps are longer to accommodate the low clearance. This ensures even low clearance vehicles can be safely loaded and unloaded without risk of damage.
Value
Certain specialty cars have greater value than the rest. Even the smallest amount of damage can result in a very expensive repair bill. For such vehicles, an enclosed trailer is the best option for transport. They are better secured, reducing the risk of damage. Even with the higher cost, it still makes for a better deal than open transport.
Enclosed transport is best for vehicles that can be easily damaged due to design and are of high value. When you have a possession you have invested so much in acquiring and maintaining, you will certainly want it to be handled with the greatest care when shipping. Classics, luxury, and custom vehicles often fall in this category. The extra protection, even with the added cost, is often money well spent.
However, keep in mind that this type of transport is less easily available. More so if the transport is to or from a more rural location. You may have to wait a long while for the auto transport company to arrange your transport.