What Type of Truck Will Ship My Vehicle for Cross Country Travel?

Concerns in auto shipping include planning routes, dealing with borders, preparing paperwork, and arranging transport logistics. The most critical problem is which vehicle will best fit the transportation of the car. Understanding the different types and divisions of trucks within a mode of transport allows a person to make decisions that will ensure the safe and efficient movement of the vehicle. Whether it is a luxury vehicle or an extraordinary vintage classic, the condition upon arrival, speed, and safety is highly influenced by the choice of truck used.

In agriculture, we will describe the basic types of primary motor vehicle carriers with open and closed vehicles.

Types Of Car Shipping Trucks

Every auto transporting company will have two general types of trucks they will use – open and enclosed. Specialized requests supported by specific contracts will hover around other types of vehicles these companies have.

1. Open-air Carriers: Dominating The Market For Transportation

This category of trucks is the most commonly used for shipping vehicles, particularly for standard cars, and are known as open-air carriers. These trucks are designed to drive multiple cars on an open deck, which is usually at a 2 or 3 tier level. Below, you can further read about open air carriers:

– How It Works: Open Air carriers are flatbed trailers with substantial become skeletons in which numerous vehicles easily fit. Carriers constructed to transport a range of cars are best designed to hold and be most mounted with 4 to 10 vehicles.

– Cost-Effective: Economically affordable units should be basically equipped with an open frame because it is known that these models are made for transporting a wide variety of automobiles. This is why it is more convenient for those who wish to transport a vehicle to a different region to use open carriers for vehicle transportation, which is cheaper than enclosed carriers that especially charge during difficult economic times.

– Protection: Open air carriers have the advantage of providing limited protection from some factors such as road debris. Yet, from rain, snow, and even extreme sun, further harm might be inflicted during the transport period. Yet, the majority of vehicles are built to endure such weather and damages and the shipping company takes the necessary steps to protect the car.

a. Open-Air Carriers: Best Suited For

The best fit for open-air carriers includes standard sedans, SUVs, and trucks. They are also popular for vehicle dealerships and auctions which need to ship large quantities of vehicles.

b. Enclosed Carriers: Ultimate Protection for High-Value Cars

The term “enclosed carrier” in itself indicates that they are completely enclosed and your car will not be subjected to outside influences during the trip. This ensures the utmost protection while transporting classic cars, exotic vehicles, or vintage automobiles. Here is what you need to know regarding enclosed caries:

– How It Works: Enclosed carrier trailers are like a big box truck outfitted with a fully enclosed trailer that has either a rear or side door for vehicle loading with access to the interior of the trailer. The automobile will be loaded in a way that it is completely sheltered from the outside. Compared to open air carriers, enclosed trailers have more limited available spaces which result in fewer vehicles being transported. Because of this, enclosed trailers typically carry two to four vehicles as opposed to open air carriers who have the ability to accommodate more vehicles.

– Maximum Protection: One more reason to use an enclosed carrier is the greater protection offered. It fully shields the car from elements such as weather, road debris, and collisions with other vehicles that could occur during open air transport. There is more security with enclosed carriers since the vehicle is out of sight and is not available to the public. This will discourage theft.

– Charges: Enclosed car shipping has a higher cost in comparison to open car carrier shipping due to restrictions on the number of cars that can be shipped and the added protection. Still, the additional expense is warranted for high-end, luxury, or vintage cars.

– Recommended For: Enclosed transport carriers are best suited for exotic sports cars, classic cars, and vintage cars that need maximum protection. These carriers are also recommended to those willing to pay to maintain their vehicle’s condition during a cross country trip.

– Special Considerations: Flatbed trucks may be used for unique or special need shipments of vehicles.

A vehicle can be transported using a flatbed truck in certain circumstances. Unlike open and closed car trailers, flatbed trucks are uncommon but may be used for specialized shipments. Here is how they work:

– How It Works: Flatbed trucks are an open-air style carrier that has a flat platform for carrying a vehicle. They are best suited for transporting one car at a time, especially oversized, modified, non-operable vehicles, or partially/fully dismantled ones.

– Optimal for: Vehicles which cannot be fitted onto a standard open or enclosed carrier, such as large trucks, low-ground clearance cars, or non-operational vehicles that need to be winched onto the truck are best suited for flatbed trucks.

How to Select the Most Appropriate Truck for Your Vehicle’s Shipment

Now that you are familiar with the available types of trucks for car shipping, which one is suitable for your car? Here are some important considerations which need answers before making your mind:

  1. Cost of Vehicle

For high-end and classic cars, enclosed carriers are ideal because of the protection they provide. Such trucks put expensive vehicles behind numerous barriers which shield them from external elements, enabling the smoothest journey on the road without damage.

  1. Funding

In the case of budget cars, an open air carrier would suit best. Conversely, it is less costly compared to an enclosed carrier. However, it still allows shipping of the vehicle across the country at a reduced cost.

  1. Time Constraints

For quicker delivery, open air transport would be the best choice for you, as they transport multiple vehicles at a go and operate more frequently. Less popular enclosed carriers might take longer due to fewer booking slots and limited vehicle availability.

  1. Shipment Distance

Open air transport is generally acceptable for shorter distance travel, less intense weather, or when the car isn’t exposed to harsh conditions. On the other hand, an enclosed carrier may be worth the extra charge to protect the vehicle for extreme distances or regions with severe weather.

Conclusion: Suggested Strategy For Efficient Car Shipment

One of the key factors when planning interstate car shipment is choosing the right truck type in relation to the safety of the vehicle and the required timeframe for delivery. The open air option is the most economical and available, which makes it popular for standard vehicles. Vintage and classic cars needs enclosed trailers which, while not cost effective, presents the utmost peace of mind to their owners. The choice to make largely depends on the owner’s perception of value, budget, and the shipping flexibility they have based on the vehicle’s make and model.

Whether you have a regular sedan, or even a vintage sports car, Carson Shipping can assist you in the process of shipping your vehicle. Reach out today to ensure that you receive the best service. We guarantee that your experience with us will be seamless and effortless.