Enclosed Auto Shipping: How Mission Auto Transport Meets Your Vehicle Transport Needs

Estimated reading time: 15 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Enclosed auto shipping provides premium protection for valuable vehicles against weather, road debris, and environmental exposure
• Mission Auto Transport offers both enclosed and open carrier options with over 9 years of industry experience
• Full insurance coverage and no upfront deposits demonstrate Mission’s commitment to customer satisfaction and risk reduction
• Enclosed shipping is particularly valuable for luxury, classic, exotic, and show vehicles with special transportation requirements
• Understanding seasonal considerations can help optimize timing and service selection for your vehicle transport

Enclosed auto shipping offers unparalleled protection for valuable vehicles during transport. When investing thousands or even hundreds of thousands in a vehicle, ensuring its safe arrival at its destination becomes paramount. Mission Auto Transport brings over 9 years of industry experience and expertise to the table, specializing in both enclosed shipping and open carrier options to meet diverse customer needs. Selecting the appropriate transport method isn’t just about budget considerations—it’s about matching your specific vehicle’s requirements with the right protection level. Whether you’re relocating a family sedan or transporting a rare classic car, understanding your options is crucial for making an informed decision. Exploring these choices starts with a free quote, allowing you to compare services without any obligation.

Understanding Enclosed Auto Shipping

Enclosed auto shipping refers to the premium transportation service where vehicles travel inside fully enclosed trailers, completely shielded from external elements. These specialized carriers provide comprehensive protection against adverse weather conditions including rain, snow, hail, and intense sun exposure that could otherwise damage a vehicle’s exterior. Additionally, the enclosed environment eliminates exposure to road debris, dust, and other contaminants that commonly affect vehicles during open transport. This heightened level of security makes enclosed auto transport particularly valuable for owners of high-value vehicles who prioritize protection over cost considerations.

The enclosed shipping method proves essential for several categories of vehicles that require extra care during transportation. Luxury automobiles with their pristine finishes and sophisticated components benefit significantly from the added protection. Vintage and classic cars, often irreplaceable due to their historical significance and limited availability, demand the enhanced security of enclosed transport. Exotic and rare vehicles with unique specifications and substantial market value represent another category where enclosed shipping becomes necessary rather than optional. Cars with custom modifications, specialized paint jobs, or aftermarket enhancements that have received significant investment also warrant the additional protection of enclosed carriers.

Mission Auto Transport’s enclosed trailers are specifically designed with vehicle protection as the primary consideration. The company utilizes soft, non-abrasive strapping systems to secure vehicles within the enclosed space, preventing any potential scratching or marring of surfaces during transit. The interior surfaces of these specialized carriers feature non-slip materials that further reduce the risk of movement-related damage during transportation. These thoughtful design elements demonstrate Mission Auto Transport’s commitment to preserving the pristine condition of every vehicle entrusted to their enclosed shipping service.

Open Carrier Transport: Affordable and Efficient Option

Open carrier transport represents the standard method within the auto shipping industry, utilizing trailers that expose vehicles to the environment while maintaining fundamental protection during transit. This approach has become the predominant choice for vehicle transportation nationwide, accounting for approximately 80% of all auto shipments. The open-air design allows carriers to transport multiple vehicles simultaneously, creating economies of scale that directly translate to cost benefits for customers. The structural efficiency of these carriers enables transporters to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize operational expenses, further contributing to the affordability that makes open transport accessible to most vehicle owners.

This transportation method proves ideal for several common scenarios in the vehicle shipping landscape. Standard everyday vehicles without exceptional value or rare characteristics are perfectly suited for open carrier shipping. Daily drivers that already experience regular exposure to environmental conditions can safely travel via open transport without concerns about typical weather exposure. Shorter distance relocations often minimize the risk factors associated with extended shipping durations, making open carriers an appropriate and economical choice. The cost-effectiveness of open transport aligns well with the practical needs of most vehicle owners seeking reliable transportation without premium expenses.

When comparing open carrier options to enclosed shipping alternatives, several key differences become apparent. The most significant advantage of open transport is the substantial cost savings, typically ranging from 30-40% less than enclosed shipping for identical routes. However, this comes with trade-offs in protection levels. For instance, transporting a Honda Civic via open carrier represents a sensible, budget-conscious decision for a vehicle designed for daily use and regular environmental exposure. Conversely, shipping a Ferrari or similar luxury vehicle would warrant the additional investment in enclosed shipping to protect the significant value and specialized finishes. Mission Auto Transport excels in providing expertise across both shipping methodologies, allowing customers to make informed decisions based on their specific vehicle’s requirements and their personal priorities.

Why Mission Auto Transport Stands Out

Proven Track Record

Mission Auto Transport has established itself as a reliable industry leader through consistent service excellence over more than nine years of operation. This longevity in a competitive industry speaks volumes about the company’s ability to satisfy customer demands and adapt to evolving market conditions. Their Better Business Bureau accreditation represents third-party validation of their commitment to ethical business practices and customer satisfaction. This credential isn’t merely a badge but reflects adherence to rigorous standards for transparency, responsiveness, and dispute resolution. The company’s established history provides customers with confidence that their vehicle transport needs will be handled with experienced professionalism rather than entrusting valuable assets to unproven operators with limited track records.

Full Insurance Coverage

Vehicle protection during transportation extends beyond the physical security of the trailer with Mission Auto Transport’s comprehensive insurance coverage. Every shipment, whether via enclosed shipping or open carrier transport, comes backed by full insurance protection that safeguards customers against potential financial losses resulting from unexpected incidents during transit. This coverage represents a crucial layer of security that distinguishes professional auto transport services from less reputable alternatives. The company maintains transparent documentation of this coverage, allowing customers to review specific protection details before committing to services. This insurance-backed confidence enables vehicle owners to proceed with transportation arrangements knowing their investments remain protected throughout the shipping process.

No Upfront Deposits

Mission Auto Transport implements a customer-centered payment structure that eliminates the common industry practice of requiring substantial deposits before services begin. Instead of demanding payment with uncertain service timelines, the company only collects payment when a specific driver has been assigned to the customer’s shipment. This approach significantly reduces customer risk by ensuring funds only transfer when concrete transportation plans are established. This payment philosophy reflects the company’s confidence in its service reliability and demonstrates respect for customers’ financial security. The no-upfront-deposit policy provides peace of mind that payment coincides with actual service delivery rather than speculative future arrangements.

Payment Flexibility

Understanding that customers have diverse financial preferences, Mission Auto Transport accommodates various payment methods to simplify the transaction process. The company accepts major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, providing convenient electronic payment options with potential rewards benefits. For customers preferring direct transfers, bank payment options eliminate card processing considerations. This flexibility extends beyond method to timing, with clear payment milestones established upfront so customers understand exactly when payments become due without hidden timelines or unexpected requests. This comprehensive approach to payment flexibility demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer convenience throughout the enclosed shipping and open carrier transport processes.

Door-to-Door Convenience

Mission Auto Transport eliminates logistical complications by providing comprehensive door-to-door service across both enclosed shipping and open carrier options. This convenience factor begins with vehicle collection directly from the customer’s preferred location, whether residential driveway, workplace parking lot, or other accessible area. The service continues with careful transportation management throughout the journey and concludes with direct delivery to the specified destination address. This approach saves customers significant time and hassle compared to terminal-based shipping alternatives that require self-transport to centralized locations. Door-to-door service proves particularly valuable for customers with busy schedules, limited transportation options, or those shipping to unfamiliar destinations where navigating to terminals would create additional complications.

Transparent Pricing

Mission Auto Transport distinguishes itself through unwavering commitment to pricing transparency that eliminates the uncertainty often associated with vehicle shipping services. Unlike competitors who advertise deceptively low initial rates only to add substantial fees later, Mission Auto Transport provides comprehensive quotes that account for all service aspects. Their pricing structure clearly delineates costs associated with distance, vehicle specifications, trailer type (enclosed shipping vs. open carrier), and delivery timeframes without hidden surcharges. This transparency extends to their free quote system, which generates accurate estimates reflecting the total expected cost rather than introductory prices that inevitably increase. Customers can confidently budget for their vehicle transportation needs knowing the quoted price represents the actual expected expense without surprise additions.

How to Request Your Free Quote

Obtaining an accurate, obligation-free quote from Mission Auto Transport involves a straightforward process designed for customer convenience and information clarity. Begin by navigating to the Mission Auto Transport website where you’ll find their user-friendly quote interface prominently displayed. This intuitive system guides you through the essential information gathering process without overwhelming technical details or unnecessary complexity. The company prioritizes a streamlined experience that respects your time while collecting sufficient information to generate accurate pricing.

Once on the quote page, you’ll need to provide specific details about your vehicle including its year, make, and model—information that directly impacts transportation requirements and associated costs. Larger or heavier vehicles require additional resources, which the system factors into your estimate. You’ll also specify your desired transportation timeline, including pickup and delivery locations with approximate dates. The system allows flexibility for uncertain schedules while providing more precise quotes for defined timeframes. These details enable Mission Auto Transport to calculate accurate distance metrics and identify optimal routing options.

After submitting these basic details, you’ll receive an instant preliminary quote reflecting both enclosed shipping and open carrier options, allowing direct comparison between these service tiers. This side-by-side presentation enables informed decision-making based on your specific vehicle protection preferences and budget considerations. The system also allows for customization of additional preferences such as expedited service options, specific trailer requirements, or other special requests that might affect your final pricing. Each adjustment generates revised estimates in real-time, creating a transparent exploration of available service options without pressure or obligation to proceed. This comprehensive free quote process demonstrates Mission Auto Transport’s commitment to customer empowerment through information clarity and choice transparency.

Enclosed Shipping vs. Open Transport: Making the Right Choice

Determining whether to select enclosed shipping or open carrier transport requires careful consideration of several important factors specific to your situation. Vehicle value represents perhaps the most significant consideration in this decision-making process. Generally, vehicles exceeding $50,000 in value benefit substantially from enclosed shipping’s additional protection against environmental exposure and road debris. The potential for minor damage during open transport, while rare, becomes more financially significant with higher-value vehicles, making the premium for enclosed shipping a proportionally smaller percentage of the overall vehicle investment.

Weather expectations along your planned route should factor prominently into your decision-making process. Shipping through regions prone to severe weather conditions—including hail-prone areas, winter storm corridors, or hurricane seasons—substantially increases environmental risks for open transport. The Midwest’s unpredictable weather patterns, Northeast winter conditions, and southern coastal routes during specific seasons each present considerations that might justify enclosed shipping’s additional protection. Mission Auto Transport’s experienced shipping consultants can provide valuable insights regarding seasonal weather considerations along specific routes, helping customers make informed decisions based on timing and geography.

Vehicle rarity and replaceability represent crucial considerations when selecting between enclosed shipping and open carrier options. Standard production vehicles with readily available replacement parts align well with open carrier transport, where minor cosmetic issues could be addressed if necessary. Conversely, rare collector vehicles, limited production models, or cars with historical significance warrant enclosed shipping’s additional protection given their irreplaceable nature. Vehicles with documented provenance, certified original components, or historical registration require the maximum protection enclosed shipping provides to preserve their authenticity and value. Mission Auto Transport specializes in adapting their service recommendations to match these specific vehicle characteristics rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport

Proper preparation of your vehicle before shipping ensures smooth processing and helps prevent potential issues during transit, regardless of whether you’ve selected enclosed shipping or open carrier transport. Begin with a thorough cleaning of both exterior and interior surfaces—not merely for appearance but to facilitate accurate condition documentation. A clean vehicle allows for detailed inspection reports that clearly identify any pre-existing damage, preventing disputes about transportation-related issues. Photograph your vehicle from multiple angles, including close-ups of any existing scratches, dents, or other imperfections to establish a clear pre-shipment condition record.

Mechanical preparation plays a crucial role in successful vehicle transportation. Check and adjust tire pressure to recommended levels, as proper inflation prevents unnecessary stress on suspension components during loading and transit. Ensure the battery maintains sufficient charge to facilitate loading and unloading procedures without complications. Address any fluid leaks before transport—oil, transmission, or coolant leakage can create hazards within trailers and potentially damage your vehicle or others during shipping. Reduce fuel levels to approximately one-quarter tank, providing sufficient fuel for necessary movement while minimizing weight and potential hazards associated with full tanks.

Several important administrative and practical steps complete your vehicle preparation process. Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle interior, as shipping insurance typically excludes coverage for items left inside. Deactivate toll transponders, parking passes, and automated garage door openers to prevent unintended activation during transit. Document your vehicle’s specific operational quirks or special procedures in writing for the transport driver, such as unusual starting sequences or alarm system operations. Provide a complete set of keys, including any needed for locking gas caps or specialized compartments. Mission Auto Transport recommends completing these preparation steps at least 24 hours before scheduled pickup to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure your vehicle ships without complications.

Seasonal Considerations in Auto Transport

Auto transport dynamics shift significantly with seasonal changes, influencing both availability and pricing structures throughout the year. Summer months typically represent peak season for vehicle shipping nationwide, characterized by high demand and premium rates across all service tiers. This seasonal surge results from increased household relocations, vacation home transitions, and seasonal vehicle movements that collectively strain industry capacity. During these high-volume periods, scheduling flexibility becomes particularly valuable, with early booking strongly recommended to secure preferred dates and avoid expedited service premiums. Conversely, winter typically brings decreased demand in many regions, potentially offering cost advantages for flexible shipping timeframes despite weather-related operational challenges in certain areas.

Regional weather patterns create important seasonal considerations that directly impact shipping method decisions. Northern routes during winter months face potential delays from snowstorms, icy conditions, and seasonal road closures that affect scheduling reliability. These conditions increase the value of enclosed shipping for protecting vehicles from road salt exposure and winter precipitation that can accelerate corrosion or cause finish damage. Meanwhile, southern and coastal routes during hurricane season (June through November) present different challenges, with potential weather disruptions affecting scheduling predictability. Mission Auto Transport’s experienced coordinators provide valuable guidance on seasonal route considerations, helping customers balance timing, protection needs, and budget considerations based on seasonal realities.

Holiday periods throughout the year create distinctive shipping patterns that informed customers can navigate advantageously. The weeks surrounding major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year typically experience capacity constraints as transporters reduce schedules and demand spikes with gift vehicles and holiday travel. Similar constraints affect capacity around spring break periods and summer holidays, creating mini-surge periods within broader seasonal patterns. Planning shipments during mid-month periods rather than month transitions can sometimes access better pricing and availability, as many household moves coordinate with month-beginning apartment leases and real estate closings. Mission Auto Transport provides specialized guidance for holiday period shipping, helping customers optimize timing and service selection during these challenging calendar periods.

Enclosed Auto Shipping for Unique Vehicle Categories

Classic and Vintage Vehicles

Classic and vintage automobiles present specific transportation challenges that enclosed auto shipping addresses comprehensively. These historical vehicles often feature irreplaceable components no longer in production, making even minor damage particularly problematic. Original paint finishes and patinas developed over decades require protection from environmental exposure that could alter their authentic character. Many classic vehicles utilize materials vulnerable to moisture damage, including wood frames, leather interiors, and fabric components that benefit from enclosed shipping’s climate protection. Additionally, classic car values frequently depend on documented originality and condition history, making preservation during transport especially crucial for maintaining investment value.

Mission Auto Transport’s enclosed shipping service provides specialized handling for these irreplaceable automobiles. Their enclosed trailers feature hydraulic lift systems rather than standard loading ramps, accommodating classic cars with lower ground clearance or limited approach angles. The company’s classic car transport specialists understand the unique operational characteristics of vintage vehicles, including proper starting procedures, brake systems, and shifting mechanisms that differ significantly from modern automobiles. This specialized knowledge ensures proper handling during the critical loading and unloading phases when most transport-related damage occurs. For vehicles with historical significance or collector status, Mission Auto Transport provides documentation of enclosed transport for provenance records, potentially beneficial for future authentication or insurance valuation.

Exotic and High-Performance Vehicles

Exotic and high-performance vehicles represent significant investments with specific transportation requirements that enclosed auto shipping addresses directly. These vehicles often feature aerodynamic components positioned exceptionally low to the ground, creating clearance challenges during loading and transport that enclosed trailers with advanced hydraulic systems can accommodate. Carbon fiber body components, increasingly common in high-performance vehicles, exhibit exceptional strength-to-weight ratios but remain vulnerable to impact damage that enclosed shipping helps prevent. Specialized paint technologies including color-shifting finishes, matte applications, or ceramic coatings represent substantial investments deserving protection from road debris and environmental contaminants during transit.

Mission Auto Transport’s enclosed shipping service provides several specific advantages for exotic vehicle transportation. Their specialized equipment includes extended loading ramps with minimal approach angles to accommodate extremely low ground clearance without body damage. Climate-controlled options within select enclosed trailers provide temperature and humidity stability for vehicles with sensitive electronic systems or specialized materials affected by environmental extremes. The security aspect of enclosed transport proves particularly valuable for high-profile exotic vehicles, eliminating visibility during rest stops and overnight segments that could otherwise attract unwanted attention. For exotic car owners with privacy concerns, enclosed shipping offers discretion throughout the transportation process while protecting these premium investments from both environmental and security risks.

Show Cars and Custom Builds

Show vehicles and custom builds represent countless hours of craftsmanship and substantial financial investment, creating unique transportation requirements that enclosed auto shipping addresses effectively. These vehicles often feature one-of-a-kind modifications, custom paint work, and specialized components that prove difficult or impossible to repair if damaged during transport. Many show cars incorporate extensive detailing work that could suffer degradation from environmental exposure during open transport, particularly over longer distances. Custom vehicles frequently feature non-standard dimensions, modified suspension systems, or specialized body components that require careful handling during loading and transit to prevent damage.

Mission Auto Transport’s enclosed shipping service provides specialized advantages for show car transportation needs. Their enclosed trailers eliminate all exposure to road debris, including the fine particulate matter that can settle on meticulously detailed surfaces and require professional cleaning before display readiness. The company offers specialized tie-down systems designed for modified vehicles with non-standard attachment points or air suspension systems that require careful stabilization. For vehicles preparing for competitive shows or exhibition events, Mission Auto Transport can coordinate precise delivery timing to align with event schedules, allowing for seamless transition from transport to display venues. This specialized service ensures show vehicles arrive in competition-ready condition without requiring extensive preparation after delivery.

Conclusion

Mission Auto Transport stands as an industry leader in enclosed auto shipping and open carrier transport, providing specialized solutions tailored to diverse vehicle transportation needs. Their extensive experience in handling everything from everyday commuters to rare collector vehicles demonstrates the versatility and expertise that vehicle owners can trust for safe, reliable shipping nationwide. The company’s commitment to transparent business practices, comprehensive insurance protection, and customer-centered policies creates a shipping experience designed to minimize stress while maximizing vehicle security throughout the transportation process.

The value of obtaining a free quote cannot be overstated when planning vehicle transportation. This no-obligation process provides crucial information for budgeting, comparing service options, and making informed decisions based on your specific vehicle’s requirements and value considerations. The quote process serves as an educational opportunity to explore customization options and understand how different choices affect both protection levels and pricing. By developing a clear understanding of available services before committing to transportation arrangements, vehicle owners can align shipping methods with their specific priorities and protection requirements.

When your valuable vehicle requires transportation, choosing the right shipping partner makes all the difference in ensuring a positive experience with your prized possession arriving in pristine condition. Request your free quote today to secure best-in-class transport for your vehicle with Mission Auto Transport’s industry-leading enclosed shipping and open carrier options. Their team of transportation specialists stands ready to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and develop a customized shipping plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns. Experience the confidence that comes from entrusting your vehicle to true industry professionals committed to exceptional service and vehicle protection.