When shipping your car from Los Angeles to Houston, you'll choose between two main transport methods: open and enclosed carriers. Understanding the differences will help you make the right decision for your vehicle and budget.
Open Transport is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer alongside other cars—similar to what you see delivering new vehicles to dealerships. While your car is exposed to weather and road debris during the 1,500-mile journey, this method is safe for most everyday vehicles. About 90% of cars are shipped this way, and it typically costs significantly less than enclosed options.
Enclosed Transport provides complete protection inside a covered trailer. Your vehicle is shielded from weather, dust, and road debris throughout the trip. This option typically costs 50-60% more than open transport, but it's worth considering for luxury cars, classic vehicles, exotic sports cars, or any car with custom paint work. The extra investment protects high-value vehicles from potential damage during transit.
Which Should You Choose? For most standard vehicles, open transport offers excellent value and reliability. However, if you're shipping a collector car, high-end luxury vehicle, or anything worth over $75,000, enclosed car shipping provides peace of mind. Consider your vehicle's value, condition, and your personal comfort level with exposure to the elements when making your decision.