When you're looking to ship your high-value vehicle, your go-to mode of transport is an enclosed carrier 99% of the time. The reason is superior protection and high insurance coverageInformation on insurance policies that cover drivers, passengers, and vehicles in case of accidents .... But which enclosed car hauler, though?
There are many of them, and although it's the shipper's job to select the right one, as the vehicle owner, you should also be aware of the different types of enclosed car haulers so you know if you’re getting the right deal. Let’s see the top enclosed car hauler commonly used by moving companies:
8 Enclosed Types of Car Haulers Commonly Used for Shipping
Car hauling companies offer various solutions depending on your needs. Private car haulers often choose between six main types, each serving different purposes in the auto transport industry.
1. Single Level, Single Car
Car haulers often start with this basic but essential type. Race car haulers particularly love these because they offer maximum protection and easy access. You'll get your car from point A to point B without worrying about weather damage or road debrisObjects on the road that can cause damage or accidents., which can be serious issues.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Single deck design | Perfect for tall vehicles like SUVs |
| Wide entry ramp | Easy loading of low-clearance vehicles |
| Climate control options | Ideal for antique car haulers use |
2. Single-Level, Multi-Car
Perfect for small, local dealership moves. You can fit up to four vehicles while keeping them all on one level. This makes vehicle inspections a breeze and loading much simpler than stacked options.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Extended length design | Accommodates multiple vehicles efficiently |
| Flexible interior space | Customizable loading arrangements |
| Side door access | Quick vehicle checks during transport |
Aluminum car haulers in this category offer an extra advantage: they're 10-15% lighter than steel ones and also more fuel-efficient. That means lower operating costs and better maneuverability in tight spots. Many operators love these for their balance of capacity and ease of use.
3. Multi-Level Multi-Car
These giants of the road are what you'll typically see hauling new cars to dealerships. With room for up to 10 vehicles, they're all about maximizing space while protecting cargo from the elements.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Hydraulic lift system | Smooth level transitions |
| Reinforced structure | Handles maximum load capacity |
| Multiple access points | Efficient loading/unloading process |
While they require more skill to load and unload, these types of car haulers offer the best value for bulk transport. The stacked design might look tricky, but modern hydraulic systems make managing multiple levels much easier than you'd think.
4. Soft-Side Enclosed
Private carriers often pick soft-side options for their versatility and cost-effectiveness. Think of these as the middle ground between open and fully enclosed transport. The vinyl walls keep the weather out while keeping the weight down. You may also get some dimension flexibility for loading/unloading modified vehicles with irregular due to soft sides.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Vinyl curtain sides | Easy side access for loading/unloading |
| Lightweight design | Reduces fuel consumption and operating costs |
| Flexible configuration | Accommodates various vehicle sizes efficiently |
5. Hard-Side Enclosed
When moving antique vehicles or high-end cars, hard-side enclosures provide top-tier protection. The solid walls protect your ride from weather, debris, and unwanted attention.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Solid metal walls | Maximum protection from elements and theft |
| Climate control | Preserve vehicle condition during transport |
| Advanced security | Peace of mind for valuable cargo |
These units provide a service beyond basic transport. With climate control options and advanced security features, they're perfect for cross-country moves of valuable vehicles. Many haulers use these exclusively for premium transport packages.
6. Liftgate Enclosed
Got a car that barely clears a speed bump? Liftgate haulers are your best friend. These specialized units make loading super-low vehicles a breeze. No more worrying about scraping expensive front ends on ramps.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Hydraulic lift system | Safe loading of low-clearance vehicles |
| Level platform | Eliminates ramp-related damage risks |
| Powered operation | Handles non-running vehicles easily |
7. Boat Trailers
Private boat owners, especially those with antique vessels, need specialized protection during transport. Modern enclosed boat trailers have features that classic car haulers don't typically have.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Custom cradle system | Prevents hull damage during transit |
| Reinforced tie-downs | Ensures maximum stability on highways |
| Water-resistant sealing | Protects from road spray and rain |
8. Toy Trailers
Companies often use these versatile haulers for transporting smaller equipment. From golf carts to compact construction gear, these trailers handle it all.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Multi-level storage | Maximizes space for various equipment |
| Flexible ramp angles | Easy loading of different vehicle types |
| Modular interior | Adapts to different cargo needs |
Every type has its sweet spot in the industry. Whether you're moving a single luxury carHigh-end rides offered by premium vehicles for a more comfortable experience. or managing a whole fleet, there's an enclosed option that fits your needs. Remember: bigger isn't always better - it's about finding the right tool for your job.
What is a Common Enclosed Trailer Size?
Size matters significantly when hauling vehicles or equipment. Most standard trailers have specific dimensions for optimal transport efficiency.
| Dimension | Common Sizes |
|---|---|
| Width Options | 5ft, 6ft, 7ft, 8.5ft |
| Length Range | 8ft to 32ft (most common: 16ft-24ft) |
| Standard Height | 7ft clearance |
Has Anybody Used Enclosed Car Haulers For Heavy Equipment or RVs?
While enclosed transport offers excellent protection, it's not suitable for everything. Here are key limitations to consider:
- Size restrictions are crucial—anything over 7 feet high or 82 inches wide won't fit in standard enclosed units. Most haulers can only manage 2-3 RVs per load, depending on size.
- Vehicle condition matters, too. Non-operational vehicles (those that won't roll, brake, or steer) require special handling equipment that some enclosed carriers lack.
Before booking heavy equipment transport, always check with service providers about their capabilities and limitations. It'll save time and prevent potential loading issues later.
