Price Factors of Enclosed Carriers: What affects the cost when choosing enclosed auto transport - Closed

2/10/2025

When deciding between open and enclosed auto transport, knowing the cost factors is crucial. Enclosed transport offers extra protection but at a higher cost. This method, ideal for high-value vehicles, shields from elements and road debris.

Price Factors for Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed Transport Costs are mainly influenced by:

Distance
Vehicle type
Route
Season

For example, transporting a Honda Civic from Los Angeles to New York City may cost $2,100 enclosed vs. $1,525 open.

Explaining cost factors of Enclosed Auto Transport

Understanding Price Factors of Enclosed Transport

When it comes to shipping a vehicle, one of the most critical decisions you'll face is choosing between open and enclosed auto transport. Enclosed auto transport offers additional protection for your vehicle, but it comes at a higher cost.

What is Enclosed Auto Transport?

Enclosed auto transport involves shipping your vehicle in a fully enclosed trailer, offering maximum protection from the elements, road debris, and potential damage during transit. This method is popular for transporting high-value, classic, exotic, or antique cars.

Price Factors in Enclosed Auto Transport

Several factors determine the cost of enclosed auto transport:

Distance:
The longer the distance, the higher the cost. This is due to fuel consumption, driver time, and logistical expenses.
Vehicle Type and Size:
Larger and heavier vehicles occupy more space and weight capacity in the trailer, leading to higher costs. For instance, an SUV will cost more to transport than a compact car.
Route and Location:
Transporting a vehicle between major cities tends to be cheaper than routes involving rural or remote areas. High-demand routes often have more competitive pricing.
Season and Demand:
Prices can fluctuate based on seasonal demand. For example, snowbird season (when many people transport cars to warmer climates) often sees higher prices due to increased demand.

Price difference between Enclosed Auto Transport and Open Auto Transport.

Quote Pricing: Enclosed Transport vs. Open Transport

Let's break down the costs using examples for different vehicle types. Suppose you need to transport a car from Los Angeles, CA, to New York, NY (approximately 2,800 miles).

Compact Car (e.g., Honda Civic):

Open Transport: $0.40 per mile
Cost: 2,800 miles x $0.40 = $1,120
Enclosed Transport: $0.75 per mile
Cost: 2,800 miles x $0.75 = $2,100

Luxury Sedan (e.g., BMW 7 Series):

Open Transport: $0.50 per mile
Cost: 2,800 miles x $0.50 = $1,400
Enclosed Transport: $1.00 per mile
Cost: 2,800 miles x $1.00 = $2,800

SUV (e.g., Range Rover):

Open Transport: $0.55 per mile
Cost: 2,800 miles x $0.55 = $1,540
Enclosed Transport: $1.10 per mile
Cost: 2,800 miles x $1.10 = $3,080

Factor	Enclosed Transport	Open Transport
Cost	30–60% higher	More affordable
Vehicle Protection	Fully enclosed, shielded from weather and debris	Exposed to elements and road debris
Ideal For	Luxury, classic, exotic, and specialty cars	Standard vehicles and daily drivers
Carrier Availability	Fewer carriers available	More common and easier to book

On average, enclosed auto transport will cost $1.50 to $2.50 per mile for short distances and $1.00 to $1.50 per mile for long-distance routes. In contrast, open transport rates range from $0.50 to $1.25 per mile, making it the more budget-friendly option.

Comparing Enclosed and Open Auto Transport Costs

The examples above illustrate that enclosed transport costs significantly more than open transport. The premium for enclosed transport is due to the additional protection it provides, the limited space within enclosed trailers (typically accommodating fewer vehicles per trip), and the specialized handling required for high-value cars.

How Open Transport Works

How Enclosed Auto Transport Works

Booking and Preparation:
After selecting Viceroy Auto Transport for your enclosed transport needs, we will gather details about your vehicle and preferred transport dates. We'll provide a detailed quote based on the factors mentioned.
Pickup:
A professional driver will arrive at your specified location, inspect the vehicle, and load it onto the enclosed trailer using a lift gate or winch for safety.
Transport:
Your vehicle will be securely fastened inside the enclosed trailer, protected from weather and road hazards. Our experienced drivers will ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Delivery:
Upon arrival at the destination, the driver will carefully unload your vehicle and conduct a final inspection to ensure it arrived in the same condition as when it was picked up.

Enclosed auto transport offers unparalleled protection for your vehicle, making it an ideal choice for transporting high-value, luxury, and classic cars. While it comes at a higher cost compared to open transport, the peace of mind and added security are well worth the investment. By understanding the price factors and how the process works, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

At Viceroy Auto Transport, we are committed to providing top-notch service and ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and securely. Contact us today for a personalized quote and let us take the worry out of your vehicle transport needs.