Each has its own advantages, depending on the customer’s needs.
Open Transport: This is the most common and economical form of auto transport. In open transport, vehicles are loaded onto an open-air carrier that can hold multiple vehicles at once. While this option is generally cheaper, it exposes the vehicle to auto transport companies the elements, meaning the car may be subject to dirt, weather conditions, or debris. However, open transport is still considered a safe and reliable method for moving most vehicles.
Enclosed Transport: Enclosed transport involves shipping vehicles in a fully enclosed truck or trailer, offering extra protection against weather, road debris, and other potential hazards. This service is typically used for luxury cars, classic cars, exotic vehicles, or any high-value automobile where extra protection is needed. Due to the added protection and the fact that fewer vehicles can be transported at once, enclosed transport tends to be more expensive than open transport.
How Auto Transport Companies Work
The process of transporting a vehicle with an auto transport company typically involves a few key steps:
Request a Quote: The first step in shipping a vehicle is obtaining a quote. Auto transport companies usually provide a free estimate based on factors such as the distance of transport, the type of vehicle, and the chosen transport method. Prices can also vary depending on the time of year, fuel costs, and the specific routes the company services.
Booking the Transport: Once the customer agrees to the quote, they will book the transport service. This may involve a deposit or full payment, depending on the company’s policies. The customer will also provide details about the vehicle, such as its make, model, condition, and any specific needs (such as enclosed transport or a particular pick-up/drop-off location).
Vehicle Pick-Up: The auto transport company will arrange for the vehicle to be picked up at the agreed location. In most cases, companies can pick up the vehicle directly from a home, office, or dealership. However, depending on the region, there may be designated drop-off locations if door-to-door service is not feasible.
Transporting the Vehicle: The vehicle is loaded onto the transport carrier and is then delivered to the destination. Depending on the distance and transport method, this process can take anywhere from a few days to over a week.
Vehicle Delivery: Once the vehicle reaches its destination, the customer can arrange for it to be delivered to their specified location, whether it's their home, a dealership, or another location. In some cases, customers will need to pick up their vehicle from a terminal.
Factors Affecting Auto Transport Costs
Several factors can influence the cost of transporting a vehicle. Here are a few key elements:
Distance: The farther the vehicle has to travel, the more expensive the transport will be. Longer distances generally require more fuel and time.
Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, or vans, are more expensive to transport due to their size and weight, which require more space and fuel.
Type of Transport: As mentioned earlier, enclosed transport tends to be more expensive than open transport due to the added protection and fewer vehicles being shipped at once.
Seasonality: The time of year can also affect costs. Winter months or peak travel seasons may see higher prices due to demand fluctuations.