Auto Transport Service Types

Choosing the right auto transport service depends on your vehicle type, timeline, and level of protection needed. Below is a complete explanation of the most common auto transport service types, when each is recommended, and what to expect. Check down below and you should find the right service for you!

Auto Transport SERVICES PROVIDED

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Understanding these services allows you to make informed decisions when choosing an auto transport solution tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize cost, convenience, or specialized care, the auto transport industry has options to suit every requirement.

Open Auto Transport

Open auto transport is the most common and affordable way to ship a vehicle nationwide. Vehicles are transported on open-air carriers that typically haul multiple cars at once.

• Best for: Standard sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and daily drivers
• Protection level: Standard exposure to weather and road conditions
• Why this option is popular: Lowest cost, widest carrier availability, faster scheduling

How Open Carrier Works

Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed auto transport provides the highest level of protection by shipping vehicles inside a fully enclosed trailer. This service is typically reserved for high-value and specialty vehicles.

• Best for: Luxury vehicles, classic cars, exotics, collector vehicles
• Protection level: Protected from weather, debris, and road contaminants
• Why choose enclosed transport: Maximum protection and specialized handling

How Enclosed Works

Flatbed Auto Transport

Flatbed transporters are trucks designed to carry vehicles securely. They have no walls or roof, so loading and unloading vehicles of various shapes and sizes is easy. They're ideal for shipping vehicles too large for standard open or enclosed car carrier trucks. 

• Best for: Oversized trucks, lifted vehicles, low-clearance or modified vehicles 
• Why flatbed is required: Custom dimensions and specialized modifications. 
• Key benefit: Maximum flexibility for unique vehicles

How Flatbed Works

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

When you hire a car hauler to ship your vehicle, you want to make sure everything is protected, secured and insured. Our carriers are licensed, bonded & insured guaranteeing you a safe pickup and delivery. Documents can be provided prior to pickup and a vehicle inspection will be conducted at both, loading and unloading zones.

Insurance Coverage

Viceroy Licensing

More Auto Transport Services

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Door to Door Delivery

Door-to-door auto transport means the carrier picks up and delivers your vehicle as close as legally and safely possible to the provided addresses.

• Best for: Residential moves and maximum convenience
  
• Important note: Large carriers may need nearby meeting locations due to road restrictions
• Why customers prefer this option: No terminal visits and minimal effort

How Door To Door Works

Top Load Placement

Top load auto transport places a vehicle on the upper deck of an open carrier.

• Best for: Added protection without enclosed pricing
  
• Key benefit: Reduced exposure to road debris and vehicle fluids
• Common use: Long-distance open transport

How Top Load Works

Winch Service for Inop Vehicles

Inoperable vehicle transport is used when a vehicle cannot be driven onto a carrier under its own power. Winch-equipped carriers are required.

• Common examples: Non-running vehicles, restoration projects, salvage vehicles
  
• Equipment used: Winch-assisted loading and unloading
• Important consideration: Additional carrier cost due to specialized equipment

How Winch Service Works

State to State Selector

Whether you’re moving across the country or just a few states over, we ship vehicles anywhere within the United States. Simply select your pickup and delivery states to get an accurate route and quote. Choose your pickup and drop-off locations to get a free quote.

State Selector

Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Transport Services

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Here are a few frequently asked questions with answers about auto transport services. 

Is open transport safe?

Yes. Open transport is the industry standard and safely moves millions of vehicles every year.

Is enclosed transport worth the cost?

For high-value or irreplaceable vehicles, the added protection often justifies the higher cost.

Can I ship a non-running vehicle?

Yes. Winch-equipped carriers can transport inoperable vehicles with proper disclosure.

How do I know which service to choose?

Our team helps match your vehicle, timeline, and budget with the appropriate service type.

Related Pages

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• Pickup Windows: How Estimated Time-Frames Work
• Auto Transport Delivery Times: Estimated Times for Deliveries
• National Average Price Charts: Estimated Cost to ship a car