Trailers & Trucks Used for Car Shipping: Types Explained

Summary:

• The importance of selecting the right trailer or truck for car shipping.

• Breakdown of types of trailers and trucks used for car shipping:

1. Open Car Carrier Trailers

2. Enclosed Car Carrier Trailers

3. Flatbed Trailers

4. Lowboy Trailers

5. Hotshot Trucks

6. Specialty Trailers for Oversized or Luxury Vehicles

• Factors to consider when choosing a truck or trailer for car shipping.

• How AmeriFreight helps customers find the right shipping option.

The Right Trailer Makes All the Difference

Car shipping involves much more than simply moving a vehicle from point A to point B. The type of trailer or truck you choose can significantly impact the safety, timing, and cost of transporting your car. Whether you're moving a standard sedan, a luxury sports car, or a heavy-duty truck, understanding the different types of trailers and trucks used for car shipping is crucial.

In this article, we’ll dive into the various types of trailers and trucks commonly used in the car shipping industry. Each type serves a unique purpose, and the choice depends on factors like the type of vehicle, distance, and level of protection required. Let's explore your options to ensure you make the best choice for your car.

Types of Trailers and Trucks Used for Car Shipping

1. Open Car Carrier Trailers

Open car carriers are by far the most common method for transporting vehicles in the United States. These trailers are easily recognizable, often seen carrying multiple vehicles on highways.

• What Are They?
  Open car carriers are multi-level trailers that can transport up to 10 vehicles at a time. These trailers leave vehicles exposed to the elements but are a cost-effective solution for large-volume transport.

• How Do They Work?
  Vehicles are loaded onto the trailer using ramps. Once secured, they remain exposed to weather conditions like rain, snow, or even road debris. This is a non-issue for most standard cars, especially when weather isn't a major concern.

• Pros:

• Economical: Since open carriers can transport multiple cars simultaneously, shipping costs are distributed, making it more affordable.

• Availability: Open car carriers are widely available, meaning you can often find one quickly.

• Efficient: These trailers are great for standard vehicles and work well for long-distance transports.

• Cons:

• Exposure: Cars transported on open trailers are vulnerable to weather conditions and debris. This is not ideal for luxury or antique vehicles.

• Limited Protection: While cars are secured, the open nature of these trailers means there’s less protection against potential damage.

• Best For:
  Standard vehicles like sedans, SUVs, and trucks that don’t require extra protection.

2. Enclosed Car Carrier Trailers

Enclosed trailers offer the ultimate protection for your vehicle, making them the go-to choice for owners of luxury, exotic, or antique cars.

• What Are They?
  Enclosed car carriers are fully enclosed trailers, shielding vehicles from weather, debris, and potential damage during transport.

• How Do They Work?
  Vehicles are loaded into the trailer, which is then sealed, providing full coverage and protection. These trailers typically carry fewer cars—around 2 to 7—due to the enclosed structure.

• Pros:

• Complete Protection: Your vehicle is fully protected from the elements, dirt, and road hazards.

• Increased Security: Enclosed trailers provide a higher level of security, minimizing the risk of theft or damage.

• Premium Handling: Often, drivers of enclosed carriers are specially trained to handle high-value vehicles with care.

• Cons:

• Cost: Enclosed carriers are more expensive due to the extra protection they offer.

• Limited Availability: Since these trailers are in higher demand for specific types of cars, availability can be limited.

• Best For:
  High-value vehicles like luxury cars, classic vehicles, exotic sports cars, and motorcycles.

3. Flatbed Trailers

Flatbed trailers are a versatile option, primarily used for oversized vehicles or those that can’t be easily loaded onto standard trailers.

• What Are They?
  Flatbed trailers are open platforms without sides or roofs, designed to transport heavy or oddly shaped vehicles that don’t fit within a typical car carrier.

• How Do They Work?
  Vehicles are either driven onto the trailer or lifted using a crane or other equipment. Flatbeds are often used for inoperable vehicles or those with non-standard dimensions.

• Pros:

• Flexibility: Perfect for oversized or non-standard vehicles, including machinery and construction equipment.

• No Loading Constraints: With no walls or ceiling, loading and unloading large vehicles is much easier.

• Ideal for Non-Operational Vehicles: Flatbeds are often used to transport cars that can’t be driven due to damage or mechanical issues.

• Cons:

• Higher Costs: Flatbed services often come with premium pricing, particularly for oversized loads.

• Exposure: Like open carriers, vehicles on flatbeds are exposed to the elements.

• Best For:
  Large trucks, heavy machinery, or inoperable vehicles that require special handling.

4. Lowboy Trailers

Lowboy trailers, also known as low-loaders, are specialized trailers designed to haul extremely heavy and oversized vehicles or equipment.

• What Are They?
  Lowboy trailers have a lower deck height than standard trailers, allowing them to carry taller loads that wouldn’t fit on a regular trailer.

• How Do They Work?
  The lowered deck makes it possible to transport heavy machinery or construction vehicles without exceeding height restrictions on highways. These trailers are designed for oversized or overweight loads.

• Pros:

• High Load Capacity: Can carry extremely heavy and large vehicles that would otherwise be difficult to transport.

• Ideal for Tall Loads: The lower deck ensures compliance with height restrictions, making it possible to move oversized vehicles.

• Cons:

• Expensive: Given their specialized nature, lowboy trailers come with a higher price tag.

• Requires Special Permits: Transporting oversized loads often requires special permits, which can add to the cost and complexity.

• Best For:
  Industrial equipment, large trucks, and construction vehicles that are too large for standard trailers.

5. Hotshot Trucks

Hotshot trucking is a smaller-scale car shipping option that involves using heavy-duty pickup trucks with smaller trailers to transport vehicles.

• What Are They?
  Hotshot trucks are often used for time-sensitive or short-distance shipments where a full-sized trailer isn’t needed. These trucks are equipped with smaller flatbed or gooseneck trailers.

• How Do They Work?
  Hotshot drivers usually transport one or two cars at a time, making this option ideal for expedited shipping or rural deliveries.

• Pros:

• Quick Delivery: Ideal for short distances or when time is of the essence.

• Flexible: Hotshot trucks can access areas that larger trailers might not reach, such as rural or off-road locations.

• Cost-Effective for Small Loads: You won’t need to pay for a full-sized trailer when shipping fewer vehicles.

• Cons:

• Limited Capacity: Hotshot trucks can only carry a couple of vehicles at a time, which might not be efficient for larger moves.

• Availability: Fewer hotshot services are available compared to full-sized trailers.

• Best For:
  Small or urgent shipments, particularly in areas where larger trailers can’t easily access.

6. Specialty Trailers for Oversized or Luxury Vehicles

Sometimes, standard trailers just won’t cut it. For oversized or uniquely shaped vehicles, specialty trailers are the perfect solution.

• What Are They?
  Specialty trailers are custom-built to accommodate vehicles that have non-standard dimensions or require extra care during transport. These trailers are often used for unique cases, like transporting military vehicles or luxury sports cars.

• How Do They Work?
  Custom equipment is used to secure and transport the vehicle, ensuring its safety throughout the journey. These trailers may have adjustable heights, hydraulic lifts, and other features designed for specialized loads.

• Pros:

• Tailored to Unique Needs: Specialty trailers are designed specifically to handle unusual vehicles.

• Highest Level of Care: Drivers and handlers are experienced in transporting high-value or oversized vehicles.

• Custom Solutions: The trailer can be adjusted or modified to meet the specific needs of the cargo.

• Cons:

• High Cost: Customization and specialized handling make this the most expensive option.

• Availability: Specialty trailers are harder to come by and may require advanced scheduling.

• Best For:
  Oversized vehicles, luxury sports cars, and specialized equipment that requires custom handling.

How to Choose the Right Trailer or Truck for Car Shipping

Selecting the right trailer or truck for your car shipment depends on several factors:

• Type of Vehicle: Consider whether your vehicle is standard, luxury, oversized, or inoperable.

• Distance: Longer distances may require more durable options, especially if your vehicle needs extra protection.

• Budget: Open trailers are the most cost-effective, while enclosed and specialty options come with a higher price tag.

• Protection Needs: If you’re shipping a high-value or classic car, an enclosed trailer offers the most protection.

At AmeriFreight, we make it easy to choose the right trailer or truck for your needs. Whether you’re shipping a standard sedan across the country or a luxury vehicle that requires extra care, we’ll help you find the most cost-effective and secure option.

Conclusion: Get the Right Trailer with AmeriFreight

Selecting the correct trailer or truck for car shipping is essential to ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and securely at its destination. Whether you opt for a standard open car carrier or require the specialized services of an enclosed or lowboy trailer, understanding your options will help you make an informed decision.

When you choose AmeriFreight, you're choosing a team that understands the nuances of car shipping and the importance of matching the right trailer to your specific needs. With our broad network of shipping options, we can handle everything from standard sedans to oversized construction vehicles.

Get an Instant Quote Today

Ready to ship your vehicle with confidence? AmeriFreight is here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're shipping a standard car, a luxury vehicle, or something oversized, we've got you covered with the best shipping options available. Get an instant quote today to find the perfect solution for your car shipping needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the cheapest way to ship a car?
The most affordable method of car shipping is using an open car carrier. These trailers transport multiple vehicles at once, spreading the cost and making it the most economical option. However, your vehicle will be exposed to the elements, so it's best for standard cars that don’t require extra protection.

2. When should I choose an enclosed trailer over an open trailer?
You should opt for an enclosed trailer if you're shipping a high-value vehicle such as a luxury car, a classic vehicle, or an exotic sports car. Enclosed trailers offer full protection from weather conditions, debris, and potential theft during transit.

3. Can I ship a car that doesn’t run?
Yes, inoperable vehicles can be shipped using a flatbed trailer. These trailers are ideal for vehicles that can’t be driven onto a traditional trailer and often require specialized loading equipment. The process is more expensive than standard shipping but ensures safe transport for non-operational vehicles.

4. How do I know if my vehicle qualifies as oversized?
Oversized vehicles typically include large trucks, construction machinery, or vehicles with non-standard dimensions. If your vehicle exceeds typical height, weight, or width limits, you’ll likely need a lowboy trailer or another specialty trailer. AmeriFreight can help you determine the best option based on your vehicle's specifications.

5. What is hotshot trucking, and when should I use it?
Hotshot trucking involves using smaller, heavy-duty pickup trucks equipped with flatbed or gooseneck trailers for quick, smaller-scale deliveries. This is ideal when you need fast delivery of one or two cars over short distances, especially in rural or hard-to-reach areas.

With AmeriFreight, car shipping doesn't have to be complicated or stressful. Whether you need a basic open trailer or a specialized enclosed option, our team is here to guide you and ensure your vehicle arrives in perfect condition. Contact us today for more details or to start your car shipping journey!