Shipping your car across the country can be both exciting and daunting.
As you envision your beloved vehicle reaching a new destination, we’re here to help you with the ultimate guide to the top 6 types of trailers and trucks used for car shipping in the auto transport industry.
The different types of trucks and trailers include the following:
- Open Trailers
- Single-Vehicle, Hotshot Trailers
- Single-Level, Multi-Car Trailers
- Multi-Level, Multi-Vehicle Trailers
- Enclosed Trailers
- Single-Level, Single-Vehicle Enclosed Trailer
- Single-Level, Multi-Vehicle Enclosed Trailer
- Multi-Level, Multi-Vehicle Enclosed Trailer
Open carriers vs. Enclosed carriers
When you get in touch with a reputable auto transport company, you’ll typically be presented with two choices: open carriers and enclosed carriers.
These options refer to the type of trailer hauled by the truck.
Open trailer car shipping
An open trailer is the most pictured car transporter.
It has no sides, exposing the vehicles to the elements and the surrounding environment during transportation.
Despite this exposure, open auto transport is a safe and effective option for shipping most standard vehicles.
There are several types of open trucks and trailers, including:
- Single-Vehicle Hotshot Trailers
These are used for express shipping over long distances, where a dually truck pulls a gooseneck trailer, just large enough for one car or truck. - Single-Level Multi-Car Trailers
Hauling up to six cars, trucks, or small RVs, this method uses a dually truck with either a multi-car gooseneck trailer or a bumper pull trailer.
It’s ideal for navigating narrow streets. - Multi-Level, Multi-Vehicle Trailers
This is the most common type of open transport used in the car shipping industry, with car transport trailers and trucks you often see on highways.
They can transport up to ten vehicles simultaneously.
Benefits of open car shipping
- Least expensive way to ship a car.
- Faster service due to more carriers to meet demand.
- More fuel-efficient per car, making it environmentally friendly.
Enclosed trailer car shipping
An enclosed trailer is used to transport fewer cars, typically up to a maximum of five.
With sides and a top, vehicles inside are completely protected from the elements and the environment outside.
This option is popular among owners of valuable and specialty vehicles, such as antique cars, custom cars, luxury cars, rare cars, and race cars.
There are different types of enclosed trucks and trailers available:
- Single-Level, Single-Vehicle Enclosed Trailer
Often used to haul valuable vehicles short distances, this service is provided by a specialized dually truck with a gooseneck or bumper pull trailer. - Single-Level, Multi-Vehicle Enclosed Trailer
With the capacity to transport up to three vehicles, this trailer is pulled by a semi, and the vehicles inside are loaded in a single file and positioned high off the road. - Multi-Level, Multi-Vehicle Enclosed Trailer
This type of enclosed trailer is taller and can accommodate two stacked rows of vehicles, up to a maximum of eight in total. A powerful semi is required to haul this trailer, and loading/unloading is done with adjustable deck ramps.
Benefits of enclosed car shipping
- Protection from weather and road debris for specialty vehicles.
- Vehicles are delivered in pristine condition, ready for the showroom.
- Private service ensures no one touches your vehicle.
Choosing the right type of transport
The choice between open and enclosed car shipping ultimately comes down to personal preferences and specific requirements.
Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Vehicle Value: If you own a high-value car that you want to transport quickly and safely, a single-car, enclosed carrier is a secure option, avoiding exposure to the elements and potential road hazards.
- Speed of Delivery: If you need your car shipped promptly, an enclosed carrier can be more efficient since the driver won’t have to make stops to drop off other vehicles.
- Budget and Flexibility: For family cars and those seeking to save on shipping costs, multi-vehicle, open carriers are the most affordable and safest option.
Our take on the different types of trailers and trucks used for car shipping
Remember, no matter what type of vehicle you need to ship or what your auto transport budget is, Unlimited Auto Transport can help you find trustworthy, affordable, and secure shipping solutions.
Rest assured that our experienced shipping advisors will select the right car transport option to suit your needs, ensuring your prized vehicle arrives safely at its destination.
