When moving a high-value asset, "standard" is rarely enough. For vehicles that require more than just a ride, enclosed carrier auto transport services provide a premium, secure environment that functions like a mobile vault. Unlike open carriers that expose vehicles to the elements, enclosed trailers shield your investment from every possible road hazard, ensuring it arrives in the exact condition it left your driveway.

At First Haulers, we recognize that for luxury, exotic, and classic car owners, the priority is condition preservation. Our enclosed services are designed to meet the rigorous demands of collectors and enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on safety.

Why Choose Enclosed Carrier Services?

The decision to utilize an enclosed carrier is often driven by the value and sensitivity of the vehicle. This service offers several layers of protection that standard open transport cannot match.

Total Environmental Shielding

Enclosed carriers feature hard-sided or heavy-duty soft-sided walls that provide a 360-degree barrier. This protects your vehicle from inclement weather like rain, snow, and hail, as well as extreme UV rays that can damage interior leather and exterior paint. Furthermore, it eliminates threats from environmental fallout such as bird droppings, tree sap, and industrial dust.

Enhanced Security and Privacy

High-value vehicles can attract unwanted attention. Enclosed trailers keep your car out of sight from prying eyes during rest stops and overnight transit. Additionally, these trailers are equipped with advanced locking mechanisms and frequently feature GPS monitoring, offering a higher level of theft deterrence compared to open-air alternatives.

Specialized Loading for Low-Clearance Vehicles

Many sports cars and exotics have extremely low ground clearance that makes loading on standard ramps risky. Professional enclosed carriers use hydraulic lift gates. These gates remain completely level as they raise the vehicle from the ground to the trailer deck, preventing any damage to front splitters, oil pans, or delicate undercarriages.

Technical Features of Enclosed Trailers

Enclosed transport is defined by the specialized equipment used to secure and move your vehicle. At First Haulers, we utilize the industry's most advanced trailer technology to provide a "white-glove" experience.

Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided Carriers

Hard-sided trailers are constructed with solid metal or fiberglass walls, offering the maximum level of protection against heavy impacts and extreme weather. Soft-sided carriers feature a heavy-duty vinyl curtain over a steel frame; while they still provide excellent protection from debris, they are often a more flexible and cost-effective middle ground for those wanting more than an open trailer.

Advanced Securement Systems

Instead of traditional metal chains that can mar a vehicle's frame or suspension, professional enclosed carriers use soft-strap tie-downs. These high-strength nylon straps wrap over the tires, securing the vehicle firmly to the floor without making any metal-on-metal contact with the paint, chrome, or chassis components.

The Cost of Premium Protection

Because enclosed trailers carry fewer vehicles—typically between two and six, compared to the nine or ten on an open carrier—and utilize more expensive equipment, they command a premium. In 2026, customers can expect enclosed transport to cost between 30% and 60% more than open-air shipping. This investment covers the specialized equipment, significantly higher insurance limits, and the expertise of a driver trained in handling high-end machinery.

For a precise figure, our car shipping calculator provides a car transport instant quote that accounts for your specific vehicle model and the current fuel market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which vehicles should always go enclosed?

We recommend enclosed shipping for any vehicle valued over $50,000, as well as any car with custom paint, exposed interiors, or ground clearance of less than five inches.

Does enclosed shipping include more insurance?

Yes. Enclosed carriers typically carry much higher cargo insurance limits—often ranging from $500,000 to $2,000,000—compared to the $100,000 standard on most open carriers.

Can inoperable cars be shipped in an enclosed trailer?

Absolutely. As long as the vehicle rolls and steers, it can be winched onto the hydraulic lift gate. Please specify the vehicle's condition when requesting your quote so we can send a properly equipped trailer.

Is the transit time longer for enclosed shipping?

Because there are fewer enclosed trailers on the road and loading requires more precision, the timeline may be slightly longer than open transport, typically adding one to two days to the total window.

Experience the Gold Standard with First Haulers

When your vehicle is more than just transportation, it deserves more than just a trailer. First Haulers has built a reputation as the most trusted provider of enclosed carrier auto transport services. We vet our drivers for their experience with high-end machinery and their commitment to professional, transparent service.

Protect your investment with the best in the business.

Don't settle for "good enough" when it comes to your vehicle's safety. Contact First Haulers today or use our online tool for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote.