Table of Contents
- Introduction
- It Provides Additional Protection
- Ideal for Luxury or High-End Vehicles
- Less Exposure
- Suitable for Long-Distance Transportation
- Special Handling
- Higher Insurance Coverage
- More Privacy and Security
- Types of Cars Suitable for Enclosed Carrier Auto Shipping
- Is Enclosed Carrier Auto Shipping Worth It?
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Have you ever thought about the many elements that could affect the safe transport of your prized vehicle across the country? Imagine the unexpected exposure to harsh weather, dust, and road debris during transit. These thoughts can be especially unnerving for owners of luxury, high-end, or classic cars. Here’s where enclosed carrier auto shipping comes into play. This method ensures your vehicle is transported safely inside a protective carrier, free from external hazards. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the advantages of enclosed carrier auto shipping and help you determine if it's worth opting for over open carrier shipping.
It Provides Additional Protection
One of the most compelling reasons to choose enclosed carrier auto shipping is the level of protection it offers your vehicle. Enclosed carriers are designed to shield vehicles from external elements such as rain, wind, dust, and debris, which can be particularly crucial during long-distance travel. Notably, many enclosed carriers feature advanced suspension systems that minimize the risk of harm from road bumps and vibrations. This added layer of security is indispensable for ensuring your vehicle arrives in impeccable condition, just as it was before being loaded onto the carrier.
Ideal for Luxury or High-End Vehicles
For luxury and high-end vehicle owners, enclosed carrier auto shipping provides unparalleled peace of mind. These vehicles often represent significant financial investment and personal value, necessitating special care during transportation. The enclosed environment not only guards against physical damage but also significantly reduces the risk of theft or vandalism. Hence, it's an optimal choice for those who want the highest level of assurance that their vehicle will be safely transported.
Less Exposure
One of the significant benefits of choosing a closed carrier is the minimized exposure to environmental factors. Unlike open carriers where vehicles are susceptible to weather changes and particulate matter, an enclosed carrier surrounds your car completely, protecting it from potential harm. This is particularly advantageous for vehicles with custom paint jobs or delicate finishes that might easily get scratched or dinged in an open carrier setting.
Suitable for Long-Distance Transportation
When transporting a vehicle over a long distance, the journey poses a multitude of challenges, including varied weather conditions, diverse road quality, and increased risk of accidental damage. Enclosed carriers address these issues effectively, offering superior protection and security. Additionally, many enclosed carriages come equipped with advanced GPS tracking systems, providing real-time updates on your vehicle's location. This feature offers an additional layer of security and peace of mind, knowing where your vehicle is at any given moment during transit.
Special Handling
Enclosed carrier auto shipping is particularly beneficial for vehicles that require specialized handling, such as antique cars, race cars, or any exotic automobiles. Carriers often come outfitted with hydraulic lift gates, climate control, and air ride suspension to ensure the utmost care during transport. This level of specialized handling not only mitigates the risk of damage but also ensures that the specific needs of your unique vehicle are met.
Higher Insurance Coverage
Another significant advantage of enclosed carrier auto shipping is the heightened level of insurance coverage. Due to the high-value nature of the vehicles typically transported inside enclosed carriers, these carriers tend to have more extensive insurance policies. This translates to increased coverage and protection should any damage or loss occur during transit. Although it's always advisable to review the insurance policies of any potential carrier to ensure they meet your needs, opting for an enclosed carrier generally offers more robust security.
More Privacy and Security
Enclosed carriers provide a higher level of privacy and security compared to their open counterparts. With your vehicle fully enclosed, it remains out of sight from potential thieves or vandals. Moreover, these carriers often feature security enhancements such as alarms and GPS tracking systems, further ensuring the safety of your vehicle. Enclosed carriers are also less accessible and thus less likely to be targeted for theft compared to open trailers.
Types of Cars Suitable for Enclosed Carrier Auto Shipping
Enclosed carrier auto shipping is not a one-size-fits-all solution. However, it is particularly suited for the following types of vehicles:
- Luxury Cars: High-value vehicles benefit from the added protection against environmental factors and theft.
- Antique and Classic Cars: Valuable and often irreplaceable, these cars require the specialized care that enclosed carriers offer.
- Exotic Cars: Unique vehicles with special features that make open transportation riskier.
- Custom and Modified Cars: Vehicles with custom paint jobs or modifications that could be damaged easily during transport.
Is Enclosed Carrier Auto Shipping Worth It?
Enclosed carrier auto shipping offers unmatched protection and security, making it an excellent choice for high-value, rare, or luxury vehicles. However, it comes at a higher cost compared to open carrier shipping and may not be necessary for every vehicle. Your decision should take into consideration the value of your vehicle, the distance of transportation, and your budget.
To find the most budget-friendly enclosed carrier options, consider using an auto transport broker. These professionals can help you research various carriers and services, ensuring you receive competitive quotes that fit your budget.
Conclusion
Enclosed carrier auto shipping provides substantial benefits, especially for those who own luxury, high-end, or exceptionally valuable vehicles. The added protection, specialized handling, higher insurance coverage, and increased security offer peace of mind that your investment is well cared for during transit. While the higher cost may be a factor to consider, the benefits often outweigh the financial investment for many car owners.
FAQ
What forms of payment are acceptable for auto shipping?
Most major credit cards, postal money orders, and cashiers checks are generally accepted forms of payment.
Is a deposit required for auto shipping services?
Yes, a deposit ranging from 10-25% of the total shipping cost is typically required when placing an order. The remaining balance is due upon delivery.
What is the usual transportation time for coast-to-coast trips?
Coast-to-coast trips usually take between 10-14 days, while shorter trips can range from 3-7 days, depending on the actual distance and various other factors like traffic and weather conditions.
Do I need to be present when my vehicle is picked up?
Yes, it is recommended that you or a designated person be present during the pick-up of your vehicle. An inspection will be conducted, and a bill of lading must be signed as proof of delivery.
Can I ship personal items inside my vehicle?
Auto carriers are not licensed to carry household goods or personal items, and these are not covered by the carrier's insurance. It's best to remove all personal items from the vehicle before shipment.
How do I insure my car during transport?
Your car is insured for its Blue Book value during the time it is on the carrier. It is important to carefully compare the condition of your vehicle against the initial report upon delivery to note any potential damages.
What preparations do I need to make before shipping my car?
Ensure that your car has no more than a quarter tank of fuel, remove all personal items, and clean it for easy inspection. Close all openings such as sunroofs or T-tops in preparation for varying weather conditions.
If you’re considering enclosed carrier auto shipping, MI Car Shipping is here to help you find reliable and affordable options. Contact us today at 866-620-1776 for an instant free quote!