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- Enclosed Car Shipping Best Enclosed Auto Transport Companies
- Enclosed Auto Transport Companies And Available Services
- Enclosed Car Transport Examples
- How Much Does Auto Transport Cost?
- Why Use Enclosed Vehicle Transport?
- Different Types Of Enclosed Shipping Options
- Single Auto Transport Enclosed Car Trailers Enclosed Car Shipping
- Multi-Car Auto Transport In Enclosed Trailer
- Why Is The Cost Of Enclosed Car Shipping More?
- Why You Will Love Enclosed Auto Transport
- Guaranteed Car Pickup And Car Delivery Dates
- Direct Contact With Driver Who Has Your Car
- Shipping Tracking
- Other Pros Of Enclosed Car Shipping
- Higher Insurance Coverage Enclosed Shipping Services
- Enclosed Vehicle Shipping Provides Optimum Protection
- Benefits Of Covered Vehicle Transportation
- Enclosed Car Shipping Distance
- The Kind Of Car Transported - What Cars Are Best For This Kind Of Transport
- Carrier Transport Shipping Availability
- Transport Season - How Transport Rates Can Fluctuate Based On Time Of Year
- Enclosed Car Shipping Related Information - More Info On Enclosed Car Transport Services
- What Auto Transport Companies Are Alternatives To Montway Auto Transport?
- Montway Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
Enclosed Car Shipping: Best Enclosed Auto Transport Companies
When it comes to safeguarding your precious vehicle during transit, opting for the reliable enclosed car shipping companies becomes paramount. These specialized enclosed auto transport services offer an extra layer of protection, shielding your vehicle from the elements, road debris, and potential damage. With a focus on preserving the pristine condition of your vehicle, these companies provide a secure and confidential environment for transportation by getting your car enclosed.
In this article, we delve into the world of enclosed car shipping, exploring the top companies that excel in ensuring your cherished automobile arrives at its destination in flawless condition.
Enclosed Auto Transport Companies and Available Services
We offer top-of-the-line and reliable enclosed auto transport and car shipping services! Whether you need a car shipping across the state, to the other side of the country, or even internationally, A-1 Auto Transport offers an easy solution to enclosed vehicle transport. With the added level of protection and security that only comes with closed auto shipping, you can rest assured your car will arrive safe and sound.
Those with high-end, luxury vehicles, exotic cars, vintage hotrods, and antique autos tend to prefer this type of carrier over alternative shipping methods. Whether your everyday automobile or a valuable one-of-a-kind restoration, requesting a closed carrier with A-1 Auto provides the safest option available.
Enclosed Car Transport Examples
How Much Does Auto Transport Cost?
| Shipping To/From | Cost | Miles | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, KS | $560-$1120 | 248 | 2-4 |
| Detroit, MI to Chicago, IL | $590-$1150 | 282 | 2-4 |
| Las Vegas, NV to Salt Lake City, UT | $790-$1200 | 421 | 2-4 |
| New York, NY to Indiana, IN | $850-$1550 | 708 | 3-5 |
| Phoenix, AZ to Denver, CO | $900-$1600 | 865 | 3-5 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Dallas, TX | $995-$1900 | 1436 | 4-6 |
| Louisiana to Montana | $1510-$1930 | 1854 | 5-7 |
| Oklahoma City, OK to Portland, OR | $1560-$1950 | 1909 | 5-7 |
| California to Delaware | $1700-$2600 | 2849 | 5-7 |
| Seattle, WA to Miami, FL | $1730-$2700 | 3298 | 7-9 |
- *Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the car transport companies season and what type of automobile you are shipping.
- *Prices can vary depending on the availability of closed carriers car transport companies in your area.
Why Use Enclosed Vehicle Transport?
The primary advantage of using covered car transport over other options (such as open carrier transportation) is it provides the highest level of security and extra protection. Not only is the enclosed vehicle safeguarded from weather, rocks, and other road debris that may be kicked up by the road, but getting your car enclosed will also be out of view from prying eyes. Covered transportation provides a secure environment and prevents any unwanted passersby from tampering with or having access to it. This is especially important when shipping high-value, rare, or classic cars.
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With well over half a million cars stolen annually in the United States, and $4.5 billion lost as a result, any extra security that can be provided is a good investment when considering a transport company. Even with existing auto insurance in place - an absolute must when transporting your car - haggling with an insurance company over a claim is a headache. Avoid all that by using a highly competent, professional vehicle transport service like A-1 Auto Transport.
When shipping a car it may be possible to get a better rate on private insurance for the vehicle if you go through a car shipping company. Protected shipping is the most secure method for transporting vehicles from one location to another and insurance brokers know this. In fact many insurers of car transporters provide discounts to enclosed auto transport companies that employ trucks for the transportation of their clients' vehicles.
Top Reasons:
- better shipping protection from rocks and debris from the car transport companies
- better transport protection from weather
- better transport protection from cars and other unforeseen circumstances
Different Types of Enclosed Shipping Options
There are two primary types of enclosed auto-moving carriers: those that ship one car and those that ship multiple vehicles (usually between two and four). Additionally, "Enclosed Car Shipping" refers to the transportation of vehicles in enclosed carriers to ensure protection from various external elements.
Single Auto Transport Enclosed Car Trailers : Enclosed Car Shipping
Many of the enclosed auto transport companies that use Enclosed Car moving, utilizing a fully covered trailer (also referred to as an enclosed car carrier) to ship a vehicle move only one car at a time. This method of is typically reserved for cars that are a luxury vehicle, high-end make or model, or another types of valuable vehicle. A single-car trailer is one of the safest and most secure methods of transporting a vehicle.
In some instances, you can find covered trucks that have padded interiors for an extra level of protection. These are referred to as soft-sided closed carriers or simply soft-sided carriers. If this is an option you think you might need, be sure to mention it when you first contact an enclosed auto shipping company.
Multi-Car Auto Transport In Enclosed Trailer
A multi-car enclosed trailer can haul one or more cars and the trailer often comes as a double-decker where two levels of cars can be stacked. Just as the single-enclosed car trailer is, multi-car trailers are reserved for expensive vehicles and the fact that they are closed auto shipping on all sides prevents the cars from being exposed to the elements during shipment and this is what reviews really like.
Why Is the Cost of Enclosed Car Shipping More?
If you have priced closed transit and compared the rates with open transport services, you probably noticed that enclosed transport costs more. There are a few reasons for this.
- One reason that hidden auto transit is more expensive than open transport is that there are fewer enclosed auto carriers on the road. Most transport carriers are open carriers and with fewer enclosed carriers available, you may have to request a hidden carrier earlier to get the dates you requested.
- Many drivers who deliver motor vehicles their own and open carriers are cheaper to buy than enclosed carriers. Due to the cost, there are fewer sealed carriers available.
- Enclosed carriers simply cannot compete with open carriers when it comes to the number of vehicles that can be hauled at one time. When a hidden carrier may have anywhere from one to four cars loaded for delivery, an open carrier can haul up to nine or ten cars at one time. This means that even when a customer pays a higher fee for delivery with confined services, the driver and company are making less money because fewer vehicles can be loaded for delivery.
- Weather can play a big factor in determining the average cost of enclosed transportation for car shipping. If you are shipping during the winter in areas where there may be snow and ice on the ground there is a chance that many roadways may be closed for safety reasons and if so, this can cause the rate to increase.
Why You Will Love Enclosed Auto Transport
There are many reasons that our customers love moving in hidden carriers, and if you have a car that needs added protection during relocation, you’re going to love it as well.
Guaranteed Car Pickup and Car Delivery Dates
With enclosed transportation, you can have guaranteed pickup and delivery dates, so you will know when your car will be picked up and delivered. If anything occurs on the route that would create a delay, you will be contacted immediately.
Direct Contact With Driver Who Has Your Car
You will be able to contact the driver directly, so you can stay on top of everything about the delivery of your car.
Shipping Tracking
We offer real-time tracking that you can check on your computer, Smartphone, or other internet-capable devices.
Other Pros of Enclosed Car Shipping
In addition to the above-listed, you can also expect the following:
Higher Insurance Coverage : Enclosed Shipping Services
All motor vehicles are covered during transit, but when you have a very expensive car to ship and you use enclosed shipping services, the coverage amounts may be higher than if you were to use open carriers. Be sure to inquire about the insurance coverage amount when you get your quote and book service.
Enclosed Vehicle Shipping Provides Optimum Protection
When it comes to protecting your highly-priced asset, covered transport is the best way to have your vehicle shipped and delivered in pristine condition.
Benefits of Covered Vehicle Transportation
- A stress-free car shipping experience with a trusted and accountable auto-shipping leader
- Protection against inclement weather during transit
- Ensure the safety of your vehicle’s body and paint from dust, dirt, and road debris
- Additional theft protection; is an important consideration for valuable vehicles
- Safeguard the value of your vehicle throughout the car shipping process
Enclosed Car Shipping Distance
For the most part, the farther you have to ship a car, the more enclosed car carriers will charge. This may not always be the case, since locations along well-traveled routes may cost less than a shorter trip that’s off the beaten path. But in general, a longer journey means a larger bill.
The Kind of Car Transported - What Cars Are Best For This Kind Of Transport
There are two reasons why you have to supply your make and model when requesting a quote. The first is to see how big your vehicle is—the larger your car is, the fewer cars your carrier can move overall.
The second reason is to get a sense of the value of your car. A more expensive car requires more levels of protection, as well as more insurance. Those additional costs usually translate into a higher price tag.
Carrier Transport Shipping Availability
There are far more open-air transport carriers on the road than there are closed trailers for several reasons. Open-air carriers are cheaper to purchase andcost less to maintain, and they carry up to three times as many cars at once
Transport Season - How Transport Rates Can Fluctuate Based On Time Of Year
Car shipping rates tend to fluctuate throughout the year, based on many factors. In the summer, for instance, there’s an increased demand and that can lead to higher prices. In the winter, on the other hand, there’s less demand for car shipping in most of the country, but snow and ice can cause significant delays in shipments.
Enclosed Car Shipping Related Information - More Info On Enclosed Car Transport Services
- Should I ship my vehicle enclosed?
- Why use enclosed car transportation services?
- Cost of enclosed auto transport
- Enclosed car transport delivery times
- Open-air vs enclosed shipping methods
What Auto Transport Companies are Alternatives to Montway Auto Transport?
Montway Auto Transport
Before we get into that, we need to know why Montway Auto Transport is so popular.
Montway Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transportis one of the better companies primarily because Montway Auto Transport has been in the industry for a long time. Also, customer reviews for Montway Auto Transport are very positive.
However, while years of experience in the industry is something to count on, availability and great prices are also top things to consider when checking out companies for your enclosed shipping. You need a dependable company that you can easily reach out to pick up and deliver your vehicle in the best condition, and A1 Auto Transport is that company.
A1 Auto Transport Car Shipping-Enclosed Car Shipping
We are definitely the best company out there for all forms of vehicle transport. We are present in all 50 states of the US and can help with all your car shipping needs for vehicles of all types and at the best possible rate you can get anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Enclosed Vehicle Moving Work?
Enclosed car transport works exactly how it sounds: Your car is moved from one location to another inside of an enclosed carrier, offering superior protection against hazards along the way.
A-1 Auto Transport can help you to benefit from three different types of enclosed carriers.
What Is A Multi-Car Enclosed Trailer?
These hard-sided trailers are equipped to carry multiple cars at the same time, oftentimes using a double-decker system that allows cars to be stacked on top of each other.
The hard sides of these trailers prevent damage from any debris that might get kicked up during the trip. It offers superior protection from the elements. For an additional charge, your car can also be covered while it’s inside the carrier, as well.
What Are Soft-Sided Enclosed Carriers?
This transportation method involves an open-air carrier that has been covered in either vinyl or canvas. While this method provides some protection, it can still leave cars vulnerable to damage from road debris. It usually isn’t recommended for more expensive cars that need greater protection.
What Is A Single Enclosed Car Trailer?
Just like the multi-car trailers, the single-car version is also hard-sided—and in some cases, they’re padded on the inside for added protection.
Because they only carry a single car, these trailers are typically the most expensive way to transport vehicles. They’re best used for moving very expensive cars over short distances, like high-end classic or luxury cars, exotic vehicles, and race cars.
Why Should I Choose an Enclosed Car Carrier?
No matter what kind of vehicle you have, there are advantages to transporting your car versus simply driving it yourself. Aside from avoiding excess miles on your car and the risk of being involved in an auto accident on a long (and exhausting) drive, enclosed car transport companies make moving cars over long distances much less complicated, especially for families or people who have other pressing obligations, like members of the military.
When it comes to car transport, most vehicle owners are primarily concerned about the price, which is why many people prefer their cars shipped on standard carriers. While these carriers are typically the cheapest option, they also leave cars vulnerable to several hazards, including:
- Damage from snow, rain, and hail
- Highway debris, like rocks and detritus from previous accidents
- Nosy strangers who are a little too interested
Enclosed vehicle transport, on the other hand, offers superior protection against all these threats. While it tends to cost more than using an open-air carrier, it’s still an affordable option for those who are wanting a more secure way to transport their cars.
Do I Need Enclosed Transportation for My Vehicle?
The most important thing to consider when you’re deciding between open-air and enclosed vehicle transport is the balance between the amount of protection you need and the added cost to ship your car.
For many vehicles, open-air carriers will be sufficient, but for car owners with luxury, vintage, classic, or other high-value cars, you’re more likely to want the added protection of an enclosed carrier.
Will My Vintage/Exotic/Classic Car Be Safe?
When you work with one of the partners of A-1 Auto Transport, you can feel confident that your car is in good hands. We only work with reliable, professional auto transport companies that we trust to handle the most valuable vehicles.
Enclosed carriers offer many features that help to protect your car from damage. In addition to the protection provided by hard-sided trailers, many enclosed carriers come equipped with hydraulic lifts, which are not available on open-air models.
Hydraulic lifts protect cars with low clearances and will protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from damage.
Enclosed carriers also tend to offer higher levels of insurance coverage than open-air carriers, since they tend to carry more valuable vehicles. Any time you hire auto movers, you should inquire about their insurance coverage levels to ensure that your vehicle is fully protected in the rare event that something were to happen to the carrier.
When Should I Book?
Ideally, you should book your car transport services as early as possible since there may be limited carrier availability. Because there are far fewer enclosed carriers on the road, there is more competition to secure their services, so wait times tend to be longer. Add in the fact that these carriers are also smaller than their open-air counterparts, and you can see why an earlier booking is better!
How Much Will It Cost to Ship a Car Using Covered Car Transport?
It’s almost impossible to say from one day to the next how much it will cost to ship a car in an enclosed car carrier. The cost of vehicle transportation varies depending on a range of factors, the most important of which are the type of vehicle and the shipping distance.
Can I Get Enclosed Shipping from a Car Auction or a Dealer?
Absolutely! If you purchase a car from a dealer that’s not near your home, they will often offer to set up enclosed auto transportation for you. While this may be convenient, you usually end up paying a premium for allowing them to set up the shipment for you.
Instead, you can work with A-1 Auto Transport directly and we’ll set up your car relocation for you. We work with dealers, private sellers, and others to ensure your car is transported safely. Online car buyers are especially likely to benefit from our services, as are buyers at classic, vintage, or luxury car auctions.
How Long Does Enclosed Shipping Take?
Federal law limits truck drivers to no more than 500 miles per day and imposes additional limits on how many days in a row they’re allowed to drive. This limits how fast we can get your car to its destination.
However, we plan our routes for maximum efficiency, which means that you’ll get your car as soon as possible. You can track your car’s progress in real-time on any internet-capable device. If we experience any delays, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
How Do I Prepare a Car for Shipping?
When shipping your car, the first step is to remove all personal items to comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Beyond legal liability, extra items increase the weight of the car, which can cause problems for the carrier. In addition, these items aren’t covered under the carrier’s insurance policy.
The second thing to do is make sure your car has only ¼ tank of gas or less. This helps to ensure your car isn’t carrying any extra weight and reduces the chance of an accidental fire.
The final step is to secure or remove external elements from your car, like bike racks or non-retractable antennas.
Can I Leave Items in My Car During Shipping?
According to the DOT, car transport companies are not permitted to ship cars with personal possessions left inside. All car carriers must pass through weigh stations and inspection locations, and any violations of this policy discovered during these stops can result in a fine of up to $10,000.
Do I Need to Add Insurance?
In order to operate an auto transport service, a company must provide insurance coverage for the vehicles they carry. While enclosed carriers often come with increased insurance coverage, you can also purchase additional coverage if you feel it's necessary.
Will There Be a Lot of Paperwork?
Not much at all! When your car is picked up, you’ll receive a bill of lading, which is a statement describing the condition of your vehicle and stipulating where your vehicle arrives. You’ll also receive a copy of your insurance coverage so you have documentation of what is and is not covered during transit.
Do You Offer Door-to-Door Enclosed Car Shipping?
Yes! For a small additional fee, A-1 Auto Transport will ensure that your car is picked up and dropped off at a location of your choosing -- usually at your home. While this service is also available with open-air carriers, because enclosed trailers are smaller, they can usually fit into much more compact areas, making them better suited to driving in neighborhoods.
Will You Pick Up or Deliver My Car If I’m Not There?
We cannot deliver a car if the owner or a designated representative is not present on the pickup date. You’ll need to sign the bill of lading acknowledging pick-up or delivery. This requires someone to be physically present.
If you are unable to be there yourself, you’ll need to contact A-1 Auto Transport before the carrier arrives to let them know who will be there instead.
Can You Guarantee My Delivery and Pick-Up Date?
For open transport carriers, it’s difficult in even the best of times to be specific about when your car will arrive. If you're opting for enclosed car transport, it's somewhat easier to determine pick-up/pickup dates and times, but it's still an estimate. This is because other factors like weather and road work can affect car transport times.
But with enclosed shipping, you can have your pick-up and delivery dates guaranteed, which means that you’ll know exactly when your car will be available. We offer terminal-to-terminal shipping. For an extra fee, you can receive door-to-door service. And in the event of delays, we’ll notify you as soon as possible.
How Will I Know My Car is Ready for Pick-Up?
Whether you have a guaranteed delivery date or not, you will receive a call from your driver 12 to 24 hours before when your car is ready to be delivered, allowing you to schedule a pick-up at a time that is most convenient for you.
We will do our best to ensure that your car arrives within the delivery window you provide. If we encounter any delays due to weather or traffic, we will let you know as soon as possible.
My Car Doesn’t Currently Run. Will You Still Move It?
There are many cases in which a car owner wants to transport a vehicle that is not currently running, especially for cars bought at auction or classic cars that are being restored. We are happy to work with you to transport these cars. Since these vehicles require specialized equipment and logistics, however, there are usually additional fees.
Can I Have My Car Shipped Internationally?
Not a problem! We have years of experience transporting cars overseas, and we’re well-versed in every step of the international shipping process. Every country has its own laws and regulations for importing foreign vehicles. We’ll help you navigate the process with as little stress as possible.
How Long Will You Honor Your Quotes?
The cost of transporting a car shifts from day to day, and while we’re almost always able to honor our quotes until the end of the current business day, you’ll need to get a new quote after that timeframe.
We will do our best to honor the quote you receive, but we also reserve the right to make adjustments if conditions change or we receive new information.
What Methods Can I Use to Pay for Services Rendered?
We take pride in our flexibility, and that’s why we accept several different forms of payment. If you have questions about how you can pay for shipping your vehicle, contact us and we’ll help you find the answers you need.
Will My Car Be Transported by Professional Carriers?
At A-1 Auto Transport, we believe in our mission to get the job done right without ever cutting corners. We strive to embody our core values of expertise, authority, and transparency, and we hold our drivers to the same high standards.
Why is enclosed auto transport the safest way to ship your car?
Enclosed auto transport is the safest way to ship your car because it provides a fully covered environment that shields the vehicle from external elements such as weather conditions, road debris, and potential vandalism. This means that the vehicle is protected from rain, snow, dust, and any potential flying objects that might cause damage during transport. Furthermore, enclosed transport often offers a more secure restraint system, ensuring minimal movement of the vehicle during transit.
Is enclosed auto transport more expensive than open auto transport?
Yes, enclosed auto transport is typically more expensive than open auto transport. The reasons for this include the additional protection it offers, higher insurance coverage, and the fact that enclosed carriers can usually transport fewer vehicles at a time compared to open carriers. This results in a premium for the added protection and care your vehicle receives.
When should I ship my vehicle in an enclosed auto transport?
You should consider shipping your vehicle in an enclosed auto transport if:
- Your vehicle is a luxury, exotic, vintage, or classic car that requires extra protection.
- The vehicle has a high monetary or sentimental value.
- You are shipping the car during extreme weather conditions or seasons.
- You are concerned about potential exposure to road debris or external contaminants.
- You want the maximum level of protection and security for your vehicle during transit.
Wondering how long it takes to ship an exotic car using enclosed auto transport?
The time it takes to ship an exotic car using enclosed auto transport largely depends on the distance and specific route, as well as the transport company's schedule. Generally, shipping times for enclosed transport are comparable to open transport. For example, coast-to-coast shipping in the U.S. might take anywhere from 7 to 14 days. However, always check with your specific transport company for a more accurate estimate based on your details and requirements.
Why choose A1 Auto Transport for your enclosed auto transport and car shipping needs?
Choosing A1 Auto Transport for your enclosed auto transport and car shipping needs is a wise decision because they have a long-standing reputation for reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction. They utilize high-quality enclosed trailers that protect your vehicle from weather, road debris, and potential damage during transport. Their experienced staff ensures that every vehicle is handled with utmost care and their comprehensive insurance coverage provides additional peace of mind for clients.
How quickly can a car be shipped with enclosed auto transport?
The shipping time for a car using enclosed auto transport largely depends on the distance of the shipment and the route taken. Generally, coast-to-coast transport in the U.S. can take 7 to 10 days. However, shorter distances might only take 1 to 3 days. It's essential to discuss your specific requirements with the transport company for a more accurate estimate.
How do I prepare my vehicle for enclosed auto transport?
To prepare your vehicle for enclosed auto transport, follow these steps:
- Clean your vehicle inside and out. This makes it easier to identify any pre-existing damages.
- Remove all personal items and valuables from the car. The transport company's insurance usually doesn't cover these items.
- Disable the car alarm to prevent it from going off during transport.
- Check the vehicle's tire pressure and ensure it's at the recommended level.
- Reduce the fuel level to about 1/4 tank. This reduces weight and is safer during transport.
- Secure or remove any loose parts or specialty items like spoilers, fog lights, or mirrors.
- Make sure the battery is charged, and the car can start and run (unless it's a non-running vehicle, which you should have informed the transport company about).
- Document the current condition of your car with photographs and notes. This can be helpful in the rare case that there's a dispute about damages.
Always check with your specific transport company for any additional recommendations or requirements they might have.
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