Florida Auto Shipping (FAS Auto Shipping) | Phone: 888-404-4084
Enclosed auto shipping is the preferred method for transporting high-value, luxury, classic, and exotic vehicles. It offers enhanced protection compared to open carriers, ensuring that your car arrives at its destination in pristine condition. Whether you’re shipping across the country or moving a short distance, this guide will cover all the essential questions and answers about enclosed auto shipping.
What Is Enclosed Auto Shipping?
Enclosed auto shipping refers to the transportation of vehicles within a fully enclosed trailer, protecting the car from the elements, debris, and road hazards. Unlike open auto shipping, where cars are exposed on a flatbed, enclosed shipping provides full coverage, ensuring no external factors can damage the vehicle.
At Florida Auto Shipping (FAS), we specialize in enclosed auto shipping for customers who need the highest level of security for their vehicles. Our fleet includes high-quality, climate-controlled trailers designed to offer maximum protection during transport.
Key Benefits of Enclosed Auto Shipping:
- Protection from Weather: Shield your vehicle from rain, snow, ice, and extreme temperatures.
- Guard Against Road Debris: Avoid potential damage from rocks, dirt, and other debris that may hit your car.
- Enhanced Security: Limited exposure to external elements minimizes the risk of theft and vandalism.
- Ideal for Luxury and Classic Cars: Perfect for high-value vehicles that require extra care during transit.
What Types of Vehicles Need Enclosed Auto Shipping?
Certain vehicles are more vulnerable to damage and require extra care during transit. Enclosed shipping is ideal for:
- Classic Cars: Restored, vintage, and antique cars that require pristine conditions.
- Luxury Cars: High-end vehicles from manufacturers like Lamborghini, Ferrari, Porsche, and Rolls-Royce.
- Exotic Cars: Limited-edition or rare models.
- Modified Vehicles: Custom cars with unique paint jobs, customizations, or expensive aftermarket parts.
- Motorcycles: High-value motorcycles or collectibles that require special care.
If you’re unsure whether enclosed shipping is necessary for your vehicle, FAS Auto Shipping can help you determine the best option. Just give us a call at 888-404-4084 for personalized advice.
How Does Enclosed Auto Shipping Work?
Step-by-Step Overview:
- Request a Quote: Start by contacting FAS Auto Shipping at 888-404-4084 or through our online quote form. We’ll provide you with a custom quote based on your vehicle type, distance, and timeline.
- Book Your Shipment: Once you’re ready, book the service, and we’ll schedule a pickup date that works for you.
- Vehicle Pickup: Our professional team will carefully load your vehicle into an enclosed carrier. We use specialized equipment such as hydraulic lifts for low-clearance vehicles.
- Transport: Your vehicle will be transported in a climate-controlled, fully enclosed trailer. Drivers make regular stops to ensure the car remains secure during the journey.
- Delivery: Upon reaching the destination, our team will safely unload your car and perform a final inspection with you to ensure it’s in the same condition as when it was loaded.
What Is the Cost of Enclosed Auto Shipping?
Enclosed auto shipping is generally more expensive than open carrier shipping due to the added protection and care involved. The cost varies depending on factors such as:
- Distance: Longer distances naturally result in higher shipping costs.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles may require more space or specialized equipment.
- Time of Year: Prices fluctuate depending on demand. Winter months and peak seasons like summer tend to have higher rates.
- Expedited Shipping: If you need fast delivery, expedited shipping will add to the cost.
Typical Price Range for Enclosed Auto Shipping:
For most enclosed shipping services, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for cross-country transport. Shorter distances may cost around $500 to $1,000.
To get an accurate quote for your enclosed auto shipping needs, contact FAS Auto Shipping at 888-404-4084 or use our online quote calculator.
Is Enclosed Auto Shipping Worth the Cost?
While enclosed auto shipping is more expensive than open shipping, it provides invaluable protection for high-value vehicles. If your car falls into one of the categories mentioned earlier (luxury, classic, exotic), the peace of mind enclosed shipping offers is worth the investment.
Key Factors to Consider:
- Vehicle Value: If the car’s value exceeds the cost of potential damage, enclosed shipping is a smart choice.
- Special Handling: Cars with unique features, like low ground clearance or custom parts, benefit from the extra care provided.
- Security: The enclosed environment offers additional security against theft or vandalism.
At FAS Auto Shipping, we understand the importance of protecting your valuable vehicle. We prioritize safety and security, ensuring every car arrives in the same condition it was loaded.
What Are the Differences Between Open and Enclosed Auto Shipping?
When deciding between open and enclosed auto shipping, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Open Auto Shipping:
- Pros:
- Lower Cost: More affordable than enclosed shipping.
- Faster Availability: More carriers offer open transport, so scheduling is often more flexible.
- Cons:
- Exposure: Your vehicle is exposed to the elements, including weather, debris, and potential damage.
- Limited Security: Open carriers are more accessible, increasing the risk of theft or vandalism.
Enclosed Auto Shipping:
- Pros:
- Protection: Complete protection from weather, road debris, and potential hazards.
- Security: Fully enclosed trailers offer better security.
- Cons:
- Higher Cost: Typically more expensive than open shipping.
- Limited Availability: Fewer enclosed carriers, which may require scheduling further in advance.
For vehicles that require extra care, enclosed auto shipping is worth the added investment.
How Long Does Enclosed Auto Shipping Take?
The shipping timeline for enclosed auto transport depends on several factors, including:
- Distance: Cross-country shipments typically take 7-14 days. Shorter distances may take 1-5 days.
- Route: If the route is commonly traveled, shipping times may be faster.
- Weather Conditions: Inclement weather can cause delays, especially during winter months.
- Driver Availability: Due to limited availability of enclosed carriers, it may take longer to schedule your shipment compared to open transport.
Estimated Delivery Times by Distance:
- Under 500 miles: 1-2 days
- 500-1,000 miles: 2-4 days
- 1,000-1,500 miles: 3-5 days
- 1,500-2,000 miles: 5-7 days
- 2,000+ miles: 7-14 days
At FAS Auto Shipping, we strive to provide realistic delivery estimates and keep you updated throughout the shipping process. For urgent shipments, we offer expedited options. Contact us at 888-404-4084 for more information on expedited enclosed shipping services.
How Do I Prepare My Vehicle for Enclosed Auto Shipping?
Properly preparing your vehicle for enclosed shipping ensures it arrives safely and without damage. Follow these essential steps before your car is picked up:
- Clean the Vehicle: Wash the exterior and clean the interior to make inspection easier.
- Document Existing Damage: Take photos of the car, especially any existing damage. These will serve as reference points for the inspection report.
- Check for Leaks: Ensure there are no fluid leaks that could affect the car during transport.
- Remove Personal Items: Take out any valuables, aftermarket electronics, and personal items.
- Check Tire Pressure: Make sure all tires are properly inflated to avoid issues during loading/unloading.
- Reduce Fuel Levels: The gas tank should be no more than a quarter full to reduce weight.
- Disable Alarms: Turn off any car alarms to prevent them from going off during transit.
At pickup, our driver will perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle and document its condition in the Bill of Lading.
Can I Ship Multiple Vehicles in an Enclosed Carrier?
Yes, you can ship multiple vehicles using enclosed auto shipping, but it depends on the size and type of the carrier. Most enclosed carriers can transport between 2-6 vehicles at a time, depending on the dimensions of the cars and the trailer.
If you need to ship multiple vehicles, FAS Auto Shipping can coordinate transport for all your cars, ensuring they are safely loaded and delivered. For more details, call us at 888-404-4084.
Is My Vehicle Insured During Enclosed Auto Shipping?
Yes, your vehicle is insured during enclosed auto shipping. All reputable auto transport companies, including FAS Auto Shipping, provide insurance coverage that protects your car in case of damage during transit. However, it’s important to understand the specific coverage offered.
Key Points About Insurance:
- Amount of Coverage: Most enclosed auto shipping companies offer $100,000 to $1 million in coverage.
- Verify Insurance: Ask for proof of insurance before booking your transport.
- Check Personal Policy: Some personal auto insurance policies may offer supplemental coverage during shipping.
At FAS Auto Shipping, we prioritize safety and transparency, providing comprehensive insurance for every vehicle we transport.
Why Choose FAS Auto Shipping for Enclosed Auto Transport?
Experienced Drivers
Our enclosed auto shipping drivers are experienced in handling luxury, exotic, and classic cars. They are trained in the use of specialized equipment like hydraulic lifts and soft straps to ensure that your vehicle is loaded and transported safely.