Thanks to the pandemic, the number of Americans driving daily dropped down to 36% in 2020. But as the world’s slowly adapting to this virus and we’re opening up more as time goes on, you might find yourself needing to drive more often again. And if you’re moving soon, you’ll want to bring your car along so you don’t have to spend a fortune on a new one.
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When looking at your choices for auto transportation service, you might be wondering about which you should pick: open or enclosed shipping. Read on to find out more about each method and to see which is right for you!
Open Shipping
Open shipping is the more common type of auto transport. When you’re driving around on the freeway and you see a big truck towing a bunch of vehicles on an open frame behind it, that’s what open shipping is! While it’s mostly used by car dealerships, you can bet that individuals like you use open shipping as well.
So what should you know about open shipping? Here are a few pros and cons to think about.
Pro: There Are Plenty of Drivers
Open shipping is more common because there are more drivers. This means that in general, no matter what time of year it is, you’ll be able to find someone who can accommodate the date and time you need shipping. If not, then they can get pretty close to your preferences.
Pro: It’s Affordable
More drivers means more competition. And when there’s more competition, this means the prices are more affordable.
This isn’t the only thing contributing to lower prices either. Because open haulers can carry a large number of vehicles, this means truckers can charge each customer less.
In addition, open haulers are more fuel-efficient. Thanks to this, it makes prices cheaper too.
Pro: It’s Quicker
Are you in a rush to get your car? Then choose open shipping.
With so many truckers around, you’re bound to find someone who can pick up and drop off your vehicle on their next route.
Con: Your Car’s More Susceptible to Damage
Open haulers are just wireframes that allow vehicles to sit on top of them. There’s no shielding on the sides or the top.
Reputable truckers will be careful when transporting cars. But they won’t be able to control the weather or any debris that flies up from the road. As a result, there’s a chance your vehicle can get dinged up in transit.
Con: Your Car’s More Prone to Theft
Because your vehicle’s not sheltered inside a hauler, not only will it be more susceptible to damage, but it’ll also attract more thieves. They’ll be able to clearly see what the driver’s hauling, and should they be taking a break, thieves might steal your car if it’s a more valuable one.
Enclosed Shipping
Enclosed shipping is where your vehicle is placed in a container and hauled behind a truck. As you might’ve already guessed, this gives this auto shipping method different pros and cons, so it might be something more preferable for you.
Below are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Pro: Your Car’s Safer
Those who have luxury or classic cars will want extra protection. The same can be said if you have a sentimental attachment to your current vehicle.
In any case, if you want maximum protection, you’ll want to use enclosed shipping. This type of auto transport offers shelter from any inclement weather and thieves’ eyes.
Con: It’s More Expensive
Because there are fewer truckers and enclosed haulers can carry fewer vehicles, this drives up the price for auto shipping. Less competition and limited space will make this option noticeably more expensive; more specifically, around double the price of open shipping!
However, if you have a vehicle that needs to be protected as much as possible, spending more money on auto transport services can be worth the peace of mind you’ll get. And if repairs will be pricey, enclosed shipping will cost less in the big picture.
Con: It’s Harder to Get Your Desired Shipping Date and Time
Again, there are fewer truckers and less space. So while an open hauler driver can schedule a few clients in a day, an enclosed hauler driver will only be able to schedule one or two. And the latter will only be able to transport a fraction of vehicles in one trip.
As a result, it’ll be harder to get someone who can accommodate your desired shipping date and time. This is especially true if you need services during peak seasons, like summer.
Con: It’s Slower
Not only is it more difficult to get your desired pickup date and time, but typically, it’ll also take longer to receive your vehicle. Since they make fewer trips, enclosed hauler truckers will have to pick and choose which cars to pick up. Sometimes, they’ll have to go out of their way to pick up or drop off a vehicle, so this will slow down your delivery time.
If you’re in a rush to get your car, it’s better if you opt for open shipping instead.
Pick the Right Auto Transportation Service for Your Needs
When it comes to using an auto transportation service, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing open or enclosed shipping. Instead, it all depends on what your budget and needs are.
So remember the pros and cons of each type of shipping the next time you need auto transportation. It’ll be a lot easier for you to make a decision and get your vehicle shipped promptly!