For many people, their car represents a significant investment, not just financial but emotional too. Therefore, it goes without saying that if you ever need to ship your car, you want the best possible service you can afford.
In this guide, you’ll learn what enclosed transport costs are, what affects pricing, and how it compares to open transport options. Passport Transport has been operating in the auto transport industry for over 50 years, specializing in providing trusted enclosed car transport services. Keep reading to learn more about the cost of enclosed car transport and why it’s the best option for shipping luxury, custom, antique, collector, exotic, and high-end vehicles.
Enclosed car shipping is a way of shipping a vehicle using a trailer or similar vehicle that’s fully enclosed on all sides, unlike open car transport trailers, which are open and exposed to the elements.
It is commonly used for transporting luxury, exotic, antique, and high-value vehicles that require complete protection from rain, snow, wind, dust, dirt, and traffic grime. Additionally, the vehicle inside can’t be seen by anyone else, which means vandalism is virtually impossible, and it’s safe from potential thieves.
As a specialist enclosed transport company, Passport Transport has a fleet of fully enclosed carriers, equipped with air-ride suspension, ensuring a smooth and secure journey for your precious vehicle.
Enclosed car transport cost is influenced by various factors, the most significant of which is distance. To help you better understand how enclosed trailer car shipping cost is calculated, here is a list of things that can impact the final price.
On average, enclosed car transport cost per mile ranges from $1 to $2.50, but actual rates vary depending on the distance. On average, here’s what you can expect to pay for covered car transport cost per mile:
These rates reflect general industry averages and are meant to give you a ballpark figure. Final pricing will also depend on factors such as the size of your vehicle, whether it’s operable, the popularity of the route, and seasonal demand.
Additionally, the more flexible you are with your pick-up window, the more likely you will save on enclosed car transport. This allows carriers to coordinate routes better and fill trailers efficiently. If you require an exact pick-up date or tight window, carriers may need to rearrange schedules or dispatch a truck specifically for your shipment, which can increase costs.
It’s worth noting that while companies like Passport Transport may not always be the cheapest option, they consistently deliver exceptional value. With enclosed trailers, experienced drivers, and white-glove handling, you’re paying for peace of mind, which is especially important when shipping luxury, classic, or high-performance vehicles. In short, you’re investing in quality, safety, and reliability.
To help you better understand the difference between the cost of open vs. enclosed transport, we thought we’d give you a typical example for comparison.
| Transport Type | Cost Estimate (1,000 miles) | Protection Level |
| Open Transport | $700-$900 | Basic – exposed to weather and road debris |
| Enclosed Transport | $1,200-$1,500 | Premium – full protection from the elements |
As you can see from the table above, the enclosed car shipping cost is often 30-50% more than open car shipping for the same route. If you want to ship a high-value, vintage, exotic, or collector vehicle, this additional cost is well worth it for the added protection the vehicle receives.
When it comes to comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping, the latter option has significant benefits, particularly important for unique or low-ground-clearance vehicles. It means your vehicle is protected from rain, snow, road debris, and prying eyes. It’s also handled with greater care and attention during loading and unloading.
There are several reasons why you should consider paying the extra cost of enclosed transport. Some of the key advantages of covered car transport include:
If you’re concerned about the higher enclosed auto transport cost, you can do a few things that could save money.
If you wait until the last minute to make your booking, you can expect to pay premium prices because of limited carrier availability. Try to book at least 2-4 weeks ahead of time, and you’ll be able to secure a more competitive price.
Try to be as flexible as possible regarding the timeframe for your shipping because it allows carriers to plan more efficient routes, and you’ll avoid scheduling surcharges. For example, a 3-5 day pick-up window will make it easier to match with a driver.
Shipping between major metro areas and along more popular routes is typically cheaper than shipping to rural or more remote pick-up and delivery locations.
Enclosed car shipping costs vary considerably between transport providers, so it pays to request quotes from multiple carriers. Use Passport Transport’s fast, customized quote system and get a tailored offer that matches your schedule and vehicle needs.
During certain times of the year, such as summer and during the snowbird migration periods (fall and spring), demand increases, which drives up the price. If your schedule allows, aim to ship during slower months as this leads to reduced rates and improved availability.
Choose Passport Transport, and you’ll get more than just a ride for your vehicle. Put your trust in a team of experts shipping rare, high-value vehicles with white-glove care for decades. We’re known nationwide for going the extra mile to provide enclosed car transport services.
With more than 50 years of experience, Passport Transport specializes in safely moving luxury, classic, custom, and exotic vehicles. Our reputation is built on treating every vehicle like it’s our own.
We have a fleet of enclosed trailers designed for maximum protection and smooth transport. They are equipped with air-ride suspension to minimize bumps and vibrations. Many are equipped with hydraulic liftgates that are perfect for loading and unloading low-clearance vehicles. Passport Transport also provides dedicated support 24/7 for questions, updates, quotes, and to make your booking.
Over the years, we’ve also earned the trust of top car auctions, luxury dealerships, and private collectors nationwide and internationally. They know they can rely on us to deliver show-ready vehicles in pristine condition, and we always deliver on time.
The enclosed car transport cost per mile can vary depending on various factors, such as distance, size, and weight of vehicle, and the type of service required. On average, you can expect to pay between $1 and $2.50. For a more precise quote, use Passport Transport’s car shipping cost calculator.
If you want to ship a standard car with no modifications or special value, it’s more cost-effective to book open car transport. Enclosed transport is more appropriate for luxury, exotic, classic, or collector vehicles that call for the highest level of protection and insurance coverage.
Enclosed car transport is typically 30-50% more expensive than open car shipping. There are several reasons for this, primarily lower carrier availability, increased protection, and specialized handling. You pay more because it’s a premium service that safeguards high-value vehicles.
Yes, you can request climate-controlled shipping if this is an option with select carriers, including Passport Transport. This is a good choice if you want to ship a vehicle with sensitive materials or a finish that demands humidity and temperature control during shipping.
Yes, enclosed shipments are insured, typically at higher insurance limits that will cover the full value of high-end vehicles.
The cost of enclosed car transport varies depending on factors like distance, route, and vehicle type. Still, it’s a smart investment if you want to ship a vehicle that is valuable, whether financially or emotionally. For prized collectibles, classic cars, and luxury motors, enclosed car transport provides added protection and peace of mind worth paying more for.
If you want to ensure your vehicle’s best care and attention, choose Passport Transport’s enclosed car transport services. We specialize in providing premium auto shipping services and offer accurate, transparent pricing according to your needs.
Request your closed car shipping quote or contact us today and get started.
With over 55 years of trusted service, Passport Transport is the leader in enclosed auto shipping. We’re committed to delivering your vehicle safely, securely, and on time – every time. Get your free quote today and ship with confidence.
Copyright © 2025 Passport Transport. All Rights Reserved.