Enclosed Auto Transport

What Enclosed Transport Is

Your vehicle rides inside a hard-sided or soft-sided trailer, shielded from rain, sun, road debris and curious eyes. Enclosed carriers typically hold two to six vehicles instead of eight to ten, use a hydraulic liftgate rather than ramps for low cars, and secure vehicles with soft straps over the tires rather than chains. The drivers tend to specialize in high-value vehicles and handle them every week.

Who It's Right For

Luxury sedans and SUVs, exotics, classics and collector cars, lowered or low-clearance vehicles, freshly painted or wrapped cars, show cars, and high-end electric vehicles. It's also the right choice for anyone who simply wants the extra protection and a smaller, more attentive load — some customers ship a daily driver enclosed because the peace of mind is worth it to them.

Southern California's beach cities, the San Gabriel Valley's luxury-car neighborhoods and the classic-car communities in Pasadena, Whittier, Downey and the eastside are where we quote enclosed most often.

Cost and Scheduling

Enclosed transport costs more than open because fewer vehicles share the trip — typically a meaningful premium on the same lane. Because there are fewer enclosed carriers on the road, scheduling can take a few extra days, and capacity tightens around collector-car show seasons (Scottsdale in January, Monterey in August, Las Vegas in November) and the fall and spring snowbird moves. Booking two to three weeks ahead gets you the dates you want.

Insurance Limits

Enclosed carriers generally carry higher per-vehicle cargo insurance limits than open carriers, which matters when the vehicle is worth more than a new sedan. Ask your coordinator what the carrier's per-vehicle limit is before you book; we verify the policy is active before dispatch.

Preparing a High-Value Vehicle

Wash the car and photograph it thoroughly — every panel, the roof, the wheels, the interior and the underside if it's low. Walk it with the driver while the condition report is completed and keep your copy. Tell the driver the ground clearance, any battery cutoff or kill switch, and anything unusual about starting the car. Remove car covers, loose trim and anything in the trunk. Leave about a quarter tank of fuel.