The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
When it comes to transporting your car across the country, that journey doesn’t just begin with putting your vehicle on a trailer; it begins with understanding how the entire process works.
Whether you’re moving, purchasing a car from a neighboring state or need to ship a vehicle for business, knowing the ins and outs of auto transport trailers is key to getting your car to its new home safely and at the best price.
In the U.S., approximately 15 million vehicles are transported annually, with the auto transport industry generating an estimated $12 billion annually.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there are more than 4,500 auto transport companies across the country.
With such a massive industry and so many choices, it’s easy to see why people feel overwhelmed by the options available.
But don't worry—we’re here to break it all down for you. You’ll learn everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
So, let's discuss the world of auto transport trailers.
What Is an Auto Transport Trailer?
An auto transport trailer is a specialized vehicle designed to transport cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles from one location to another.
These trailers come in various designs, each tailored to specific transportation needs.
Some are open, exposing your vehicle to the elements, while others are enclosed, offering extra protection.
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Whether you're moving a personal car, shipping a vintage vehicle, or transporting multiple cars for a business, there’s an auto transport trailer to meet your needs.
Types of Auto Transport Trailers
Understanding the different types of auto transport trailers is essential to making an informed decision.
Each type offers a unique set of features that can affect both the safety of your vehicle and the cost of transport.
Open Auto Transport Trailers
Open auto transport trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for transporting vehicles.
These trailers have an open design where vehicles are exposed to the elements during transportation.
The benefit of using an open auto transport trailer is that multiple vehicles can be transported at once, which helps reduce costs.
Open trailers typically accommodate 7-9 vehicles, depending on their size, and are ideal for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs.
However, exposure to weather and road debris can be a downside, especially for high-value or delicate vehicles.
Still, for most everyday car shipments, an open auto transport trailer is the preferred and most affordable option.
Enclosed Auto Transport Trailers
On the other hand, enclosed auto transport trailers offer a higher level of protection.
As the name suggests, these trailers have enclosed sides that shield your vehicle from weather, road debris, and potential scratches or dings.
This makes them a great option for luxury cars, vintage vehicles, or motorcycles that need additional protection during transport.
While the extra protection makes enclosed auto transport trailers a safer choice, they do come at a higher price point.
The higher cost is justified by the added security and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is protected throughout its journey.
These trailers typically transport fewer vehicles (usually 2-5) because of the need for additional space and the limited number of vehicles that can be loaded.
Dual-Lane Auto Transport Trailers
A relatively new concept is the dual-lane auto transport trailer, which is a hybrid between open and enclosed transport.
These trailers can accommodate two rows of vehicles and provide extra protection without a complete enclosure.
These are suitable for clients looking for a middle ground between open and enclosed transport, with better weather protection.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Auto Transport Trailer
When selecting an auto transport trailer, there are several important features to keep in mind to make sure that your vehicle is transported safely:
Capacity: Auto-transport trailers can vary in size. Smaller trailers may carry just one vehicle, while larger ones may accommodate up to 9 vehicles.
Loading and Unloading: The ease of loading and unloading a vehicle is a crucial consideration. Look for trailers with ramps that are easy to drive your car onto, or if you’re shipping a motorcycle, look for trailers that offer specialized equipment for motorcycle transport.
Safety Features: The safety of your vehicle is a top priority during transport. Look for trailers that feature strong tie-down systems, tire straps, and safety chains to secure the vehicle in place.
Weather Protection: If you are shipping a high-value vehicle or a classic car, it’s worth opting for an enclosed auto transport trailer.
Auto Transport Trailer Rental: Is It Right for You?
Not everyone needs to buy an auto transport trailer, and if you’re looking to ship a car for a one-off occasion, renting may be the best option.
Many rental services offer trailers suitable for vehicles of all sizes, from personal cars to larger trucks.
Companies such as U-Haul offer auto transport trailers with hydraulic surge brakes and easy-access loading ramps.
Rental options can be particularly useful for individuals or businesses that only need a trailer for a short period.
However, it’s important to note that rental trailers are generally open trailers, so your vehicle won’t be protected from weather conditions.
If you’re concerned about exposure to the elements, you may want to look into renting an enclosed option (if available) or choose a shipping service that offers protection for the vehicle.
Auto Transport Services in the U.S.: Who Are the Best Providers?
Several companies offer auto transport services throughout the United States, each with its own strengths and specialties.
Montway Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transport is one of the leading providers of vehicle transport services in the U.S. Known for its professional customer service and reliable door-to-door shipping, Montway offers a wide range of services, including open and enclosed transport.
AmeriFreight
AmeriFreight specializes in providing car shipping quotes tailored to your specific needs. With a focus on customer satisfaction and a broad network of licensed carriers, they ensure that your vehicle is in good hands.
uShip
uShip provides a unique marketplace for shipping services. By using their platform, you can compare quotes from different car transport companies and choose the option that best fits your needs.
How Much Does an Auto Transport Trailer Cost?
When it comes to shipping your vehicle using an auto transport trailer, one of the first things people usually wonder is: How much is this going to cost?
After all, moving a car across the country—or even just across town—can come with a hefty price tag.
The cost of using an auto transport trailer depends on a variety of factors, and the answer isn’t always as simple as just a flat rate.
There are multiple variables that play into the overall price.
Now, before we get into specifics, it’s important to understand that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all price.
Auto Transport Trailer Cost Breakdown
Now, let's look at a breakdown of the costs involved in shipping a vehicle.
Estimated Cost Based on Distance
| Distance (Miles) | Cost Range (Open Trailer) | Cost Range (Enclosed Trailer) |
|---|---|---|
| 100 - 500 miles | $350 - $650 | $500 - $850 |
| 500 - 1,000 miles | $600 - $1,000 | $850 - $1,200 |
| 1,000 - 2,000 miles | $900 - $1,500 | $1,200 - $1,800 |
| 2,000 - 3,000 miles | $1,200 - $1,800 | $1,800 - $2,500 |
| 3,000+ miles | $1,500 - $2,500 | $2,500 - $3,500 |
Cost Based on Vehicle Type
| Vehicle Type | Cost Range (Open Trailer) | Cost Range (Enclosed Trailer) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Sedan | $500 - $900 | $700 - $1,200 |
| SUV or Pickup Truck | $600 - $1,100 | $800 - $1,400 |
| Luxury or Sports Car | $800 - $1,500 | $1,200 - $2,000 |
| Classic Car | $1,000 - $2,000 | $1,500 - $2,500 |
| Motorcycle | $300 - $700 | $500 - $1,000 |
Additional Costs and Services
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Insurance (Optional) | $50 - $150 (depending on vehicle value) |
| Expedited Shipping | $200 - $500 extra |
| Door-to-Door Service | $50 - $150 extra |
| Terminal-to-Terminal Service | $50 - $100 discount (if available) |
How Do You Know If You’re Getting a Good Deal?
It can sometimes feel like you’re taking a shot in the dark when it comes to shipping costs. But the good news is, there are several ways to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Reach out to a few auto transport companies to compare pricing.
Check Reviews and Reputation: Price isn't the only factor to consider. The reliability of the company and customer reviews are key to ensuring your vehicle arrives safely.
Understand What’s Included: Make sure you know exactly what’s included in the quoted price. For example, some companies offer basic insurance coverage as part of the cost, while others might charge extra for insurance.
Time of Year: If you have flexibility in when you ship your vehicle, consider the time of year. If you can avoid the peak seasons (like summer or holidays), you may be able to save on costs.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Auto Transport
The cost of transporting a vehicle using an auto transport trailer can vary based on several factors.
Distance: Naturally, the longer the distance your vehicle needs to be transported, the higher the cost.
Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles will cost more to ship because they require more space and need additional resources to load and secure them.
Type of Trailer: As mentioned earlier, enclosed auto transport trailers come at a higher cost due to the extra protection they offer.
Seasonality: The time of year plays a big role in pricing. Demand tends to be higher in peak seasons, such as summer, and prices may increase accordingly.
Insurance: Always check that your transport company provides adequate insurance coverage for the vehicle. If your car is a high-value or rare model, you may want to purchase additional insurance.
