Enclosed Vehicle Shipping: What You Need to Know!

Newer vehicles, with their advanced technology and high-performance features, may not be able to withstand the rigors of an open-road trip from point A to point B. This is especially true when you’re dealing with enclosed vehicle shipping services.

If you own a new or used car that has a low clearance, special undercarriage or limited visibility for driving in reverse, then enclosed vehicle shipping is your best bet for transporting it cross-country.

Let’s understand why enclosed vehicle shipping is the safest option if you have a newer car with performance limitations and what you need to know before making the final decision.

What is Enclosed Vehicle Shipping?

Enclosed vehicle shipping is the process of transporting a vehicle in a large, specialized trailer. Some trailers are completely enclosed while others have open doors on either end — enclosures can be added to an open-ended trailer if the vehicle requires it.

The enclosed trailer is equipped with a climate-controlled environment, power supply, and a rail system to transport the vehicle safely. Enclosed shipping is perfect for sending very expensive, high-end cars or specialty vehicles with no visibility or low clearance.

Why Is Enclosed Shipping The Best Option?

High-end cars with low visibility and a limited ability to drive in reverse are often not suitable for open-road shipping; they lack the basic safety features that open-ended transport provides: a strong, reinforced frame that is capable of supporting the weight of the car and the pressure from a loaded trailer.

Modern braking systems with ABS and other safety features that can bring a stopped car to a safe stop in an emergency. – advanced navigation and GPS systems that can be used in any weather condition and provide clear, up-to-the-minute directions. – adequate space to store all cargo, including tools, spare parts, and other accessories that come with the car.

How Does Enclosed Vehicle Shipping Work?

Enclosed vehicle shipping services require you to have or obtain the vehicle, have it prepared for shipping (including all documentation, accessories, and cargo), and hire a carrier to transport the car to its destination. The shipping service will typically provide you with a list of enclosed shippers to choose from.

Enclosed shipping is a very organized process that takes into account all of the vehicle’s unique features, including its size, weight, and construction materials. This ensures that the vehicle is safely transported to its destination and that the rails, power systems, and general exterior features are compatible with the car.

Enclosed shippers can come to your location and transport your car to the nearest highway accessible transport terminal, where the enclosed trailer is connected to a tractor-trailer for transport to its final point of departure.

Pros of Using an Enclosed Shipper

Decreased risk of damage to the vehicle from weather, driving hazards, and accidents. – Enhanced safety features such as advanced braking systems, power steering, and navigation systems. – Increased likelihood that the auto carrier will provide the best handling methods for transporting your vehicle.

Cons of Using an Enclosed Shipper

Higher shipping costs than open-ended transport. – The enclosed trailer may not be able to accommodate all types of vehicles. – Enclosed shipping services typically take longer than open-ended transport for the vehicle to reach its destination. – The enclosed trailer may not be equipped with an on-board vehicle lift that can safely raise the car to meet all federal regulations.

Tips for Selecting an Enclosed Transport Service

Make sure that the enclosed trailer has enough space to transport cargo and other accessories that come with the car. – Always ask the enclosed shipper for the dimensions of the shipping trailer. – Check for any local and state regulations that may need to be followed when transporting the car to its destination. – Ensure that the enclosed shipper is licensed and has good customer testimonials/reviews. – Confirm that the enclosed shipper can accommodate vehicles with all types of roof systems, including retractable and solar panels. – Confirm that the enclosed shipper can handle the type of tires the car has — i.e. all-terrain, standard, low profile — and that they have the proper equipment to remove and replace them. – Confirm that the enclosed shipper has the necessary equipment to safely secure the car within the trailer.

Conclusion

Enclosed vehicle shipping may cost a bit more than open-ended transport, but it also offers many advantages, such as better handling and fewer weather-related delays. When it comes to transporting a new or used car, it’s best to go the enclosed route, especially if you have a low-clearance vehicle that can’t drive in reverse.