If you’ve ever looked into transporting a car across Australia, you’ve likely come across two main options: open trailer and enclosed trailer transport. And if you’re not sure which one is right for your vehicle, you’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions we get at Unicorn Car Transport. Choosing the right transport method isn’t just about price—it’s also about protection, timing, and peace of mind. So, let’s walk through what each option means and help you decide what suits your car best.
What Is Open Trailer Car Transport?
Open trailer transport is the most common and budget-friendly way to move a car from one place to another. You’ve probably seen them on highways—those long multi-car trucks carrying anywhere from 5 to 10 vehicles at once, with all of them exposed to the elements.
Why People Choose Open Transport:
- It’s more affordable. For most vehicles, this is the most cost-effective choice. You could save 30–40% compared to enclosed transport.
- It’s readily available. Open carriers operate across all major routes in Australia, which means faster pickup times.
- It’s great for everyday cars. If you’re shipping a family sedan, a used car you just bought, or your regular commuter—this method gets the job done safely.
But There’s a Catch:
The downside is your car is exposed to weather, road dust, and debris. While damage is rare, it’s still a possibility—especially on longer trips or during wild Aussie weather swings.
What About Enclosed Trailer Transport?
Enclosed transport is exactly what it sounds like—your car is placed inside a fully covered trailer, protected from the outside world. Think of it as a first-class cabin for your vehicle.
Why Choose Enclosed Transport:
- Protection is everything. Rain, dust, hail, and prying eyes? Not an issue. Your car is completely shielded.
- It’s perfect for special vehicles. Classic cars, vintage collectibles, high-end luxury models—all deserve extra care.
- You’ll sleep better. Especially if the vehicle has sentimental value or is a major investment.
The Trade-Off?
Well, it does cost more. And since fewer companies operate enclosed trailers, pickup times might be longer compared to open transport.
Open vs Enclosed: What’s the Real Difference?
Let’s compare the two options side-by-side:
| Feature | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Protection | Exposed to elements | Fully covered and secure |
| Best For | Standard vehicles | Classic/Luxury/Rare cars |
| Availability | Widely available | Less common |
| Privacy | Visible during transport | Hidden from public view |
How to Decide?
Here’s the golden rule we often share with our customers:
If you wouldn’t leave your car parked outside overnight without worrying—enclosed transport might be worth it.
Still unsure? Ask yourself:
- Is my car rare, high-end, or irreplaceable?
- Am I okay with the car being exposed to weather?
- Do I need the most affordable option available?
If it’s a standard car and budget is top of mind, open transport will do just fine. But if your vehicle is a classic Mustang, a vintage Jag, or your prized weekend cruiser, enclosed might be a smarter investment.
Why Australians Trust Unicorn Car Transport
At Unicorn Car Transport, we’ve helped thousands of customers ship their cars across Australia—safely, affordably, and with care. Whether you go with open or enclosed transport, you’ll always get:
- Honest pricing
- Real-time updates
- Friendly, responsive support
- Professional drivers and handlers who treat your vehicle like their own
We’re here to make your car’s journey smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between open and enclosed transport depends on your vehicle’s value, your budget, and your peace of mind. And whatever you decide, you can count on Unicorn to deliver it—literally.
