To most owners, an open car carrier is perfectly fine for most circumstances. However, there are certain cars, such as classic cars, exotic cars, or anything of a sentimental or significant value, that require special care during transport. Because of Florida's high traffic, humidity along the coasts, severe thunderstorms, and Florida's classic and collector car culture, having knowledge of the difference between a good and bad enclosed car shipping company is incredibly important for owners considering enclosed transport within the state.
Enclosed Transport in Florida
Due to Florida's severe weather conditions, cars of sentimental value are best suited for enclosed transport within the state.
During Florida's frequent thunderstorms, especially along major thoroughfares such as I-95 and I-75, open trailers are vulnerable to wind-blown debris damaging a car's delicate paintwork or chrome accents.
Additionally, Florida's coastal areas bring in increased humidity and salt content to the air, which can corrode the finish of a vehicle over long-distance travel.
With that being said, most vehicles that are worth shipping inside an enclosed trailer are worth the extra money and effort it takes to ensure they reach their destination in one piece.
What Makes Carriers Specialized in Enclosed Transport Stand Out
While enclosed transport carriers are generally more expensive than open trailer carriers, some companies offer services that stand out from the rest in this niche.
Soft-strap or wheel-net tie-downs, as opposed to hard-frame hook and chain systems, are standard practice for most reputable enclosed car shipping companies in Florida. Since most cars transported within enclosed trailers have exceptional value to their owners, companies offering this kind of tie-down are the standard to look for.
Hydraulic liftgates are crucial when transporting low cars or collector cars with minimal ground clearance. Loading these cars with a standard truck and trailer results in the front spoiler and/or exhaust pipe scraping the ground. A hydraulic liftgate allows for a level loading of the car into the trailer without risking damage to the car's finish.
Single-load trailers or limited-capacity trailers are great for most owners looking for enclosed car shipping Florida. While most enclosed trailer car shipping companies utilize multi-load trailers for most long-distance transport services in order to cut costs and increase profits, there are certain companies that offer these single-load trailers for a higher price. While these trailers are often used for transport services of higher-value vehicles, such as collector cars or exotic cars, they provide much better safety and handling options.
Some transport companies also offer climate control trailers for the most valuable and delicate vehicles. Climate-controlled trailers offer temperature and humidity control inside the trailer and are generally used almost exclusively for high-value vehicles rather than standard luxury cars. While most enclosed trailers offer a controlled environment, climate-controlled trailers utilize a separate air conditioning and temperature control system to ensure the best conditions for delicate paintwork and interiors.
Insurance Coverage
Although most carriers who offer enclosed transport services carry insurance by default, coverage amounts can vary drastically between different companies.
Most of the time, coverage amounts per vehicle or per claim do not reach an adequate amount for most vehicle owners, so it is recommended to request coverage amounts in writing beforehand and obtain additional transport insurance for vehicles of high value. Any carrier that is not willing to provide a written request of coverage amounts beforehand should be avoided by most vehicle owners looking for enclosed car shipping in Florida.
Reputable Enclosed Car Shipping Companies Stand Out From the Rest
Most enclosed transport companies provide specialized services, equipment, and/or experience for the transport of specialty vehicles.
Most genuine enclosed car shipping companies offer specialized, detailed photography services for collectors and dealerships, as well as specialized training for drivers on loading and unloading procedures for low and specialty cars. Most generalist moving and transport companies that offer enclosed trailer services as an additional option, rather than a primary service, lack the specialized equipment and experience that most specialty enclosed trailer shipping companies offer.
What To Look for in Reviews
When searching for reviews on a particular enclosed car shipping company, it is best to avoid reviews that state a certain number of stars without elaborating. Reviews with specific, detailed feedback regarding on-time pickups/deliveries, communication during transit, and condition of the vehicle upon delivery are much more useful to owners searching for enclosed car shipping in Florida than reviews with only a star rating and a short, vague summary of the transport experience. Detailed reviews regarding a certain transport experience can provide insight into whether a company is reliable when it comes to communication and punctuality, as well as what to expect from the company in regard to the condition of the vehicle.
Making an Informed Decision About Enclosed Car Shipping
Transporting a specialty or valuable vehicle with an enclosed trailer is a great way to ensure the car arrives at its destination in good condition. Still, most vehicles that are transported in enclosed trailers are of high value, meaning most vehicle owners looking for enclosed car shipping in Florida are looking for options that are as reliable as possible. For that reason, choosing an enclosed car shipping company with good insurance coverage and experience with valuable vehicles is a must for most vehicle owners looking for enclosed car shipping in Florida.
East Coast Auto Haulers has developed a specialty in enclosed transportation, allowing vehicle owners in Florida to utilize this particular company's experience in the field for the transport of their specialty or valuable vehicle when an open trailer is not suitable for the circumstances.