What are the different types of auto transport?
Get Your Free Quote
Free quote in 60 seconds · We never sell your info
Prefer to talk? Call 1-888-706-8784
A straight answer from the ShipMyCar US auto transport team, plus the details that matter before you book.
Quick Answer
Short answer: The main types of auto transport are open, enclosed and flatbed, combined with door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal pickup, and add-ons such as expedited service. Specialty options cover motorcycles, boats, RVs and heavy equipment.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
By Trailer Type
Multi-level open trailers, the most affordable option. Learn more.
Covered trailers that protect luxury, classic and exotic cars. Learn more.
For oversized vehicles, heavy machinery and cars that can't go on a standard carrier. Learn more.
By Service Level
- Door-to-door
- Terminal-to-terminal
- Expedited
- Specialty: motorcycles, boats, RVs, exotics
Trailer Types Explained
Two-level trailers carrying seven to ten vehicles. The most common and affordable option. See open car transport.
Fully covered trailers for classic, luxury and exotic cars, often with lift gates. See enclosed car transport.
For heavy equipment, tall vehicles and machinery. See heavy equipment shipping and lowboy trucking.
Smaller trailers for one to three vehicles, often used for regional or expedited moves.
Service Levels Explained
Pickup and delivery at your addresses, or the closest safe spot. The standard for most shipments.
Drop off and pick up at storage yards.
Priority dispatch for tight deadlines.
Several vehicles on one booking.
RoRo or container shipping for Hawaii, Alaska and overseas.
How to Choose
Match the service to your car's value, condition and size, and to how flexible your timing is. Our car shipping by vehicle type guide walks through each kind of vehicle.
Quick Answers
Open transport on a multi-car carrier.
For classic, luxury, exotic or other high-value cars.
Transport on a smaller trailer carrying one to three vehicles, often used for regional or faster moves.
Related Questions
Source: every broker and carrier's operating authority, safety rating, and insurance status is public record — verify any company for free at the FMCSA SAFER System.
Still Have Questions? Get a Free Quote
Get your all-inclusive car shipping quote in 60 seconds, or call our team for a straight answer.