Private Car Hauler - AmeriFreight: The Best Way to Ship Your Vehicle Safely

Premium car hauling services use enclosed trailers. Enclosed trailers help protect vehicles from weather and road debris during long trips. However, no transport method can eliminate all risk. 

Professional enclosed transport helps reduce wear and tear. It is designed to protect your vehicle during shipment.

What You'll Learn

• What premium car hauling services include

• Enclosed vs open car hauling comparison

• Car hauling costs for 2025

Quick Answers

What is car hauling?

Car hauling is professional vehicle transport using specialized trucks and trailers. Premium car hauling services use enclosed trailers. Enclosed trailers help protect vehicles from weather and road debris during transport.

How much does enclosed car hauling cost?

Enclosed car hauling costs range from $1.00 to $2.50 per mile in 2025. Typical prices are $1,200-$1,500 for 1,000 miles. This compares to $700-$900 for open car hauling. Premium enclosed transport costs 30-60 percent more due to better protection, according to industry data.

Is enclosed car hauling worth it?

Yes, for high-value vehicles. Enclosed car hauling helps protect luxury cars, classics, and exotic vehicles from weather and road debris. For vehicles valued over $50,000, premium enclosed hauling provides added protection.

What types of vehicles need enclosed car hauling?

Owners of luxury vehicles like Mercedes, BMW, and Porsche often choose enclosed hauling. Classic cars and exotic supercars like Ferrari and Lamborghini also benefit. Individuals who own cars valued at over $50,000 should consider premium enclosed services.

What Is Premium Car Hauling?

Premium car hauling uses enclosed trailers with solid walls and roofs. This provides protection from outside elements. The service helps shield your car from weather, road debris, and dust during transport.

Key Features:

Enclosed car haulers carry two to six vehicles. Open carriers hold seven to 10 vehicles. Fewer vehicles can streamline routing. Professional car hauling companies use soft-tie straps. These secure vehicles without scratching paint.

Many enclosed haulers have hydraulic lift gates. These help with low-ground clearance vehicles. Some offer climate control and tracking systems.

According to enclosed car shipping market data, the premium auto transport industry is worth between  $2.5 billion and $3 billion in 2025. Its annual growth rate ranges from 7 percent to 9 percent.

Enclosed Car Hauling vs Open Car Hauling

Feature	Open Car Hauling	Enclosed Car Hauling
Protection Level	Basic (exposed)	Enhanced (full enclosure)
Average Cost (1,000 mi)	$700-$900	$1,200-$1,500
Vehicles per Hauler	7-10 cars	2-6 cars
Estimated Delivery	3-7 days	3-7 days
Weather Protection	None	Full enclosure
Best For	Standard vehicles	Luxury/Classic/Exotic
Insurance Coverage	Set by carrier policy	Set by carrier policy; optional AFTA gap protection plan available
Loading Method	Multi-level racks	Hydraulic lift gates

Open Car Hauling

Open car hauling uses multi-level trailers. These transport seven to 10 vehicles at once. Your car is exposed to the weather but secured safely. According to Consumer Reports, open shipping can help you save 20 percent or more compared to enclosed transport.

Best For: Standard sedans, SUVs, daily drivers, and budget-conscious shipping.

Enclosed Car Hauling

Enclosed car hauling uses fully covered trailers. These help protect vehicles from outside elements. This method is ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars.

Best For: Luxury vehicles, classic cars, exotic cars, custom builds, and cars valued over $50,000.

Enclosed Car Hauling Cost Guide (2025 Rates)

Cost Per Mile Breakdown

Enclosed car hauling costs average $1.00-$2.50 per mile. This is based on 2025 industry pricing data:

Factors That Affect Premium Car Hauling Cost

Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger vehicles cost more due to limited space. SUVs and trucks may cost $200-$400 more than sedans.

Route Popularity: Popular routes like California to Texas have more carriers. This means better pricing. Remote areas cost 20-30 percent more.

Seasonal Demand: Spring and summer prices rise 15-25 percent. Fall and winter offer the best rates for enclosed car hauling.

Pickup Timeline: Flexible scheduling costs less. Expedited car hauling adds 30-50 percent to base rates.

Vehicle Condition: Non-running vehicles need a winch for loading. This adds $150-$300 to enclosed car hauling costs.

When to Choose Premium Enclosed Car Hauling

Luxury Car Hauling

High-end vehicles benefit from enclosed car hauling. Brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, Lexus, and Jaguar often use this service. Enclosed transport helps protect premium paint, leather interiors, and electronics.

Luxury Brands Often Choose Enclosed Hauling:

• German luxury: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Porsche, Audi

• British prestige: Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin

• American luxury: Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator

• Japanese premium: Lexus LS, Infiniti Q70

Classic Car Hauling

Classic and vintage vehicles benefit from specialized car hauling. Original paint, chrome trim, and rare parts cannot be easily replaced if damaged.

Classic Car Types Often Using Enclosed Hauling:

• Pre-1980 muscle cars (Chevelle, GTO, Mustang)

• Vintage European sports cars (Jaguar E-Type, Porsche 911)

• American classics (1957 Chevy, Ford Thunderbird)

• Restored show vehicles

Exotic Car Hauling

Exotic and supercar transport often requires the highest level of care. Enclosed exotic car hauling provides climate control and special equipment for low cars.

Exotic Vehicles Often Requiring Premium Hauling:

• Italian supercars: Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati

• British hypercars: McLaren, Lotus, Aston Martin

• German performance: Porsche GT3, BMW M models

• American exotics: Corvette ZR1, Ford GT, Dodge Viper

Custom and Modified Vehicles

Custom paint jobs and body kits benefit from enclosed car hauling. Lowered suspensions and aftermarket parts require extra protection.

Types of Premium Car Hauling Services

Hard-Sided Enclosed Car Haulers

Aluminum or steel trailers provide enhanced protection from weather and road hazards. Hard-sided enclosed car haulers are standard for luxury and classic car transport.

Benefits:

• Full enclosure from weather (rain, snow, hail)

• Security from theft and vandalism

• Climate-controlled options available

• Hydraulic lift gates for low cars

Soft-Sided Enclosed Car Haulers

Canvas-covered trailers offer basic weather protection. These cost less than hard-sided options. They work well for vehicles needing sun and light weather protection.

Considerations:

• Less expensive than hard-sided ($100-$200 savings)

• Protection from the sun, dust, and light rain

• Not recommended for valuable classics or exotics

Single-Vehicle Private Car Hauler

Dedicated service for one vehicle only. This provides maximum security. It works best for ultra-high-value vehicles or tight schedules.

Premium Features:

• No other vehicles in the hauler

• Direct route with no stops

• Estimated delivery: typically 1-3 days (not guaranteed; subject to route, weather, and carrier scheduling)

• Personal driver communication

• Highest cost: $2,000-$5,000+ depending on distance

Multi-Vehicle Enclosed Car Hauling

Shared trailer space for two to six vehicles. This offers cost-effective enclosed car hauling. It maintains premium protection. This is the standard option for most luxury and classic cars.

Advantages:

• Lower cost than a private car hauler

• Still provides full enclosure protection

• Professional handling

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Car Hauling

1. Clean Your Vehicle Thoroughly

Wash and detail your car before the car hauling inspection. A clean vehicle allows accurate damage documentation. This ensures any scratches or dents show clearly.

2. Document Current Condition

Take detailed photos from all angles. Include front, rear, sides, wheels, and interior. Photograph any existing damage with close-ups. AmeriFreight recommends  documenting your vehicle's condition before transport.

3. Remove Personal Items

Do not place personal items in the vehicle. DOT rules prohibit transporting household goods inside shipped vehicles. Carriers are not licensed or insured to carry personal belongings.

4. Check Fluid Levels and Battery

Ensure your battery is fully charged. All fluids should be at proper levels. Vehicles must be operable for loading unless you arrange special service.

5. Reduce Fuel Level

Keep your gas tank at one-quarter full or less. Full tanks add unnecessary weight. Most carriers require low fuel levels.

6. Disable Alarms and Toll Tags

Turn off car alarms to prevent triggering during car hauling. Remove toll transponders to avoid charges during transport.

7. Note Special Instructions

Tell your enclosed car hauling company about:

• Low ground clearance needing hydraulic lift gates

• Custom modifications or body kits

• Convertible top storage needs

• Key location and alarm codes

Premium Car Hauling Insurance Coverage

Standard Carrier Insurance

All professional car hauling carriers must carry the required minimum insurance. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations set these requirements.

Carrier insurance requirements and limits are set by each carrier's policy and applicable law. AmeriFreight Auto Transport verifies that carriers maintain proper insurance coverage.

Optional AFTA Gap Protection Plan

AmeriFreight Auto Transport can offer an optional AFTA  gap protection plan through a third-party provider. This may help with certain damage not covered by the carrier's policy.

AFTA PLAN Options:

• AFTA Basic (ABA): Entry-level gap protection plan

• AFTA Standard (AST): Mid-level gap protection plan

• AFTA Comprehensive (ACO): Highest-level gap protection plan

Terms and limits are set by the plan underwriter, Allied Fidelity Group. Coverage is subject to the terms of the third-party provider.

Personal Auto Insurance

Check if your comprehensive and collision coverage stays active during car hauling. Your policy may provide coverage if the carrier’s insurance has gaps. Consumer Reports recommends checking with your insurance company before transport.

Claims Process

Document any damage right away upon car hauling delivery. Do not sign the Bill of Lading until you inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Take photos of any new damage. Note it on the delivery paperwork before the driver leaves.

About AmeriFreight Auto Transport

AmeriFreight Auto Transport is a licensed broker that has arranged reliable enclosed car hauling across the continental United States for more than 20 years. Our experienced customer service agents help thousands of customers yearly. We connect customers with professional carriers for luxury, classic, and exotic vehicle transport.

What We Offer

• Enclosed and open car hauling arranged through vetted carriers

• Multi-vehicle transport for collections and dealer inventory

• Flexible pickup scheduling coordinated with carriers

• Optional AFTA gap coverage through a third-party provider

• Licensed and bonded auto transport broker (DOT MC-597401, USDOT-2238770)

As a broker, AmeriFreight Auto Transport arranges professional enclosed car hauling through insured carriers. We verify carrier credentials and help coordinate transport from pickup to delivery.

Final Thoughts

Premium car hauling services use enclosed auto transport. Enclosed transport helps protect luxury, classic, and high-value vehicles during shipping. Enclosed car hauling costs run 30-60 percent higher than open transport. The added protection may be worth the investment for vehicles valued over $50,000.

Enclosed transport provides added protection versus open carriers. AmeriFreight Auto Transport, as a licensed broker, connects you with insured carriers. We offer an optional AFTA gap protection plan for additional peace of mind.

Enclosed transport offers added protection for luxury and classic vehicles. It aims for careful handling from pickup to delivery. For collectors, enthusiasts, and luxury vehicle owners, enclosed car hauling provides enhanced protection during shipment.

For premium car hauling needs, AmeriFreight Auto Transport helps arrange top-rated enclosed transport services. We serve the continental United States through experienced carriers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does enclosed car hauling take?

Enclosed car hauling typically takes three to seven days for cross-country transport. Regional moves take one to three days. Timelines depend on distance, route, and service type. These are estimates and not guaranteed. Delays can occur due to weather, traffic, or other factors beyond the carrier’s control.

Can I put items in my car during hauling?

No. Do not place personal items in the vehicle. DOT rules prohibit transporting household goods inside shipped vehicles. Carriers are not licensed or insured to carry personal belongings.

Is door-to-door car hauling available?

Door-to-door service is available when legally and safely accessible. The driver delivers as close to your home as possible. If the carrier cannot access your designated address, delivery is arranged at the nearest safe location. Large car hauler trucks may not access narrow streets.

What if my vehicle is damaged during car hauling?

Document damage right away with photos before the driver leaves. Note damage on the Bill of Lading. Have the driver sign it. Contact the carrier and broker immediately to begin the claims process.

How much advance notice is needed for enclosed car hauling?

Book one to two weeks ahead during peak season. This helps ensure better availability. Off-season car hauling bookings can be made three to five days in advance. Expedited service may be available with 24-48 hours of notice at additional cost.

Do I need to be present for the car hauling pickup and delivery?

Yes, someone 18 or older must be present. They sign the Bill of Lading and exchange keys for car hauling services. This person does not need to be the vehicle owner. They must have the authority to release or receive the vehicle.

Is enclosed car hauling available year-round?

Yes, enclosed car hauling operates year-round. Winter can be ideal for enclosed transport. You avoid salt, ice, and harsh weather. You may also get off-season pricing.

Can enclosed car haulers transport non-running vehicles?

Yes, with proper equipment. Non-running vehicle car hauling needs a winch for loading. This adds $150-$300 to the cost. Check that your car hauling company has winch capability when booking.

References and Sources

Government and Regulatory

1. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (2025). "FMCSA Official Website." Retrieved from https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov

2. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (2025). "Company Snapshot Search." Retrieved from https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx

3. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (2015). "Consumer Advisory About Automobile Transporters." Retrieved from https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/resources/consumer-advisory-automobile-transporters

Consumer Protection and Guidance

4. Better Business Bureau. (2023). "Spot a Vehicle Transport Scam Before You Move Your Car, Truck or Motorcycle." Retrieved from https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/28997-scam-alert-spot-a-vehicle-transport-scam-before-you-move-your-car-truck-or-motorcycle

5. Better Business Bureau. (2025). "Vehicle Transport Directory." Retrieved from https://www.bbb.org/us/category/vehicle-transport

6. Consumer Reports. (2018). "How to Save on Car Transport." Retrieved from https://www.consumerreports.org/travel-transportation/how-to-save-on-car-transport/

Industry Data and Market Analysis

7. Data Insights Market. (2024). "Enclosed Car Shipping Solutions Market's Tech Revolution." Retrieved from https://www.datainsightsmarket.com/reports/enclosed-car-shipping-solutions-1386478

Disclaimer: Information in this guide is for general reference. It may vary by carrier, route, season, and vehicle type. Car hauling costs and delivery timelines are estimates and not guaranteed. Service availability can change based on market conditions. Always verify current rates and service details with transport companies before booking. AmeriFreight Auto Transport is a licensed broker and does not own trucks. We arrange transport through independent carriers.