When it comes to shipping a vehicle, one of the most important decisions a car owner must make is choosing the right type of transport service. While open carriers are the most common and cost-effective method, they leave vehicles exposed to weather elements and road debris. For those transporting classic cars, luxury sedans, exotic sports cars, or any high-value vehicle, fully enclosed car shipping offers the highest level of protection. It is the preferred choice for owners who want their vehicle delivered in showroom condition, without risk of damage from environmental hazards or public exposure.
At Nova Transportation LLC, we’ve built a reputation for offering safe, timely, and specialized vehicle shipping nationwide. With over 50 years of combined experience, our enclosed car transport services ensure that your prized possession is shielded from the elements and handled with white-glove care throughout the journey.
What Is Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed auto transport refers to a method of vehicle shipping where the car is placed inside a fully covered trailer. Unlike open trailers, which expose the vehicle to dust, debris, rain, snow, and direct sunlight, enclosed trailers offer a sealed environment that provides maximum protection. These trailers are constructed using either soft-sided or hard-sided materials and are designed to carry one to six vehicles at a time, depending on the configuration.
This form of transport is especially useful for cars with high resale value, custom paint jobs, or delicate mechanical features. Whether you’re shipping a newly restored classic car or a cutting-edge electric sports car, enclosed transport significantly reduces the risk of wear or cosmetic damage during transit.
Who Should Consider Using Enclosed Car Shipping Services?
Not every vehicle requires enclosed shipping, but certain situations and car types benefit greatly from it. Owners of luxury or exotic brands like Lamborghini, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, and Tesla often opt for enclosed transport to preserve the pristine condition of their cars. Similarly, classic car enthusiasts who’ve invested time and money into restoring vintage models seek enclosed shipping to safeguard their vehicles’ appearance and components.
Enclosed transport is also ideal for sports cars with low ground clearance that need special handling, as well as show cars or auction vehicles that must arrive spotless and ready for presentation. Even vehicles with sentimental value—such as a family heirloom passed down through generations—deserve the added peace of mind that enclosed shipping offers.
Understanding the Different Types of Enclosed Transport Options
There are several options available within enclosed transport services, each catering to specific needs. Soft-sided trailers, made from durable canvas or vinyl, offer protection from weather and minor debris but aren’t as robust as hard-sided options. They are often used for short hauls or less delicate vehicles that still require more care than open carriers can provide.
Hard-sided trailers, on the other hand, offer the highest degree of protection. These trailers are made from solid materials such as metal or fiberglass, and are typically equipped with advanced loading systems like lift gates, which prevent damage to low-profile cars during the loading and unloading process. For those seeking the most personalized service, single-car enclosed transport ensures the vehicle is the only one onboard, minimizing handling and reducing delivery time, albeit at a premium price.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car Enclosed?
Enclosed car shipping typically costs 30% to 60% more than open transport due to the enhanced protection and specialized equipment involved. Prices can vary based on factors like distance, vehicle size, weight, type of enclosed trailer used, and demand on the shipping route.
For short-distance routes under 1,000 miles, customers can expect to pay anywhere from $900 to $1,400. For long-distance trips exceeding 1,500 miles, costs may range between $1,500 and $3,000 or more. Vehicles with custom dimensions, non-running status, or extra weight may incur additional charges. Nova Transportation offers personalized quotes to give you an accurate, upfront cost with no hidden fees, helping you plan your move with confidence.
Why Nova Transportation LLC Is the Best Choice for Enclosed Auto Transport
Nova Transportation stands out in the car shipping industry by delivering unmatched customer care, precision, and reliability. Our enclosed auto carriers are operated by trained drivers with extensive experience handling rare and luxury vehicles. From the moment your vehicle is picked up, it’s treated with the utmost respect and caution.
We use equipment like lift-gate systems to ensure safe loading for vehicles with low clearance. In addition, every shipment includes comprehensive insurance coverage for your peace of mind. Our customers also benefit from real-time GPS tracking, allowing them to monitor the status and location of their vehicle throughout the transport process. Our nationwide coverage ensures that wherever you’re shipping your car—from bustling cities to remote regions—Nova Transportation can deliver.
How to Properly Prepare Your Car for Enclosed Shipping
Before handing over your vehicle to the carrier, it’s important to take a few preparatory steps to ensure a smooth transport experience. First, wash the car thoroughly. A clean vehicle makes it easier to conduct an accurate inspection and document any existing scratches or dings. Once the car is clean, remove all personal items and loose objects from the interior and trunk. This ensures compliance with carrier regulations and reduces the risk of items shifting and causing damage during transport.
Next, make sure the tires are properly inflated and that the car’s battery is fully charged. Double-check fluid levels and ensure there are no leaks. If your car has an alarm system, it should be disabled to prevent it from triggering during loading or transit. Finally, take dated photos from multiple angles to document the vehicle’s condition at the time of pickup. This documentation is crucial in the rare event of a damage claim.
How Long Does Enclosed Car Shipping Take?
Shipping times vary based on the distance and route chosen, but enclosed transport often operates on more direct or expedited schedules compared to standard shipping. For local or regional shipments within 500 miles, delivery may take just 1 to 2 days. For mid-range distances up to 1,000 miles, delivery usually occurs within 2 to 4 days. Cross-country trips and coast-to-coast transports may require 4 to 7 days or more, depending on traffic, weather, and driver availability.
Nova Transportation works to provide accurate delivery windows and communicates closely with customers throughout the entire journey to keep them informed and reassured.
Conclusion
Choosing enclosed car shipping is an investment in your vehicle’s protection, longevity, and value. For those who own rare, valuable, or sentimental vehicles, it’s more than a service—it’s a necessity. Nova Transportation LLC offers expert care, dependable service, and premium protection for your vehicle, no matter where you’re shipping it.
With our extensive experience, tailored solutions, and customer-first approach, we’ve earned the trust of car collectors, dealers, and individual owners across the United States. Don’t settle for anything less when transporting your vehicle. Contact Nova Transportation today for a free quote and discover the gold standard in enclosed car shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is enclosed car transport better than open transport?
Yes, for vehicles that require extra care or protection from the environment, enclosed transport is significantly better than open transport. It offers full coverage against weather, dirt, and debris.
What types of vehicles benefit most from enclosed shipping?
Luxury cars, exotic vehicles, collector cars, show cars, restored vintage models, and any high-value or custom-built vehicle are best suited for enclosed transport.
Will I receive updates during my vehicle’s transit?
Absolutely. Nova Transportation provides real-time tracking updates so you can monitor your car’s journey from pick-up to delivery.
Is insurance included with enclosed shipping?
Yes, all enclosed shipments through Nova Transportation include comprehensive insurance. Details are provided in your quote documentation.
How do I request a quote for enclosed car shipping?
You can request a quote directly through Nova Transportation’s website or by contacting our customer service team. The process is fast, easy, and obligation-free.