Free tool
Enclosed vs open cost calculator
Enclosed car shipping costs about 42% more than open transport in the HaulFare model. It brings liftgate loading, often higher carrier cargo insurance limits, and protection from weather, debris and prying eyes. For most daily drivers the open premium is not worth it; for cars worth over about $70,000, low-clearance sports cars, classics and custom finishes it is. This tool prices both for your route and gives a recommendation.
Updated October 2026
Side-by-side
| Factor | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Baseline | +42% |
| Share of US shipments | 85–90% | 10–15% |
| Weather and debris exposure | Same as driving | None (hard-side) |
| Typical cargo insurance | $100k–$250k per load | $250k–$1M+ per load |
| Low-clearance loading | Ramps (risk under 4 in) | Liftgate on most hard-side trailers |
| Pickup window | 1–5 days | 2–7 days (fewer trucks) |
| Cars per trailer | 7–10 | 1–6 |
| Best for | Daily drivers, leases, dealer and auction moves | Classics, exotics, custom finishes, winter salt routes |
How the recommendation works
Both prices come from the HaulFare model for your ZIPs and vehicle class (enclosed = 1.42× open). Enclosed is recommended when any of these is true: value ≥ $70,000, ground clearance under 4 inches, custom paint/wrap/restoration, or a winter route through road-salt states. Otherwise open is recommended, because the exposure risk over a few days on a trailer is comparable to driving the same distance.
Enclosed vs open cost calculator FAQ
How much more does enclosed car shipping cost?
About 42% more in the HaulFare model. On a 1,000-mile sedan move in October 2026 that is roughly $375–$465 extra.
When is enclosed worth it?
When the vehicle is worth more than about $70,000, has custom paint or a wrap, sits lower than 4 inches (needs a liftgate), is a restored classic, or is travelling through road-salt states in winter and cannot be washed promptly on arrival.
Is an open carrier safe?
Yes. Open carriers move 85–90% of US shipments including new cars to dealerships. The vehicle is exposed to weather and road debris in the same way it would be if driven, and any transit damage is claimed against the carrier’s cargo insurance.
Does enclosed include higher insurance?
Usually. Trucking insurance agents cite common enclosed cargo limits of $250,000 to $1 million or more per load, versus $100,000–$250,000 on open trailers. Confirm the per-vehicle limit for a high-value car.
What is soft-side enclosed?
A curtain-sided trailer: protects from weather and debris but not dust or theft, and rarely has a liftgate. It is priced between open and hard-side enclosed.
