Secure & Specialized Classic Car Transport
A classic car is a valuable asset that requires specialized care during transport. Number 1 Auto Transport offers two trusted options to ship your classic vehicle: open or enclosed. We work with you to determine the best method for your car’s needs and condition
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Specialized Classic Car Transport
Shipping a classic car requires a specific level of expertise. Our team understands that every classic vehicle is unique and needs specialized care. We provide a transparent and professional service, ensuring your vehicle is handled by experienced carriers who know how to protect your investment.
Should I Ship my Classic Car on an Open or Enclosed Transport Carrier?
Choosing between open and enclosed transport for your classic car depends entirely on your vehicle’s condition and value. Here is a breakdown to help you make the right decision.
Open Transport: The Economical Choice
For classic cars that are project vehicles or “fixer-uppers,” open transport is a viable and more affordable option. While your vehicle will be exposed to road debris and weather elements, this service is a great choice if you aren’t concerned about a few rock chips or blemishes on a car that is not yet fully restored.
Enclosed Transport: The Premium Choice
For collectors and enthusiasts, enclosed transport is the gold standard. It provides the ultimate protection for your investment. You should choose an enclosed carrier if your vehicle is:
Fully restored, a show car, or has a custom paint job.
A high-value investment that requires greater insurance coverage.
Not intended to be exposed to the elements.
A vehicle with loose parts or low ground clearance.
A Critical Difference: Insurance Coverage
A key factor to consider is insurance. On an open carrier, standard insurance coverage is typically limited to around $50,000. However, with enclosed transport, coverage begins at $250,000 and can be extended up to $1,000,000 for added peace of mind, ensuring your investment is fully protected.
How Long Does It Take To Transport a Classic Car?
Understanding the transit time for your classic car is a key part of the shipping process. Once your vehicle is ready for pickup, the standard window for a driver to arrive is typically 24 to 72 hours. This window can extend to up to 5 days for more remote locations.
After pickup, the transit time to your destination is based on the distance. While these are all estimates, they provide a reliable timeframe for your planning:
For destinations under 1,000 miles, delivery is typically completed within 2 to 3 days.
For journeys between 1,000 and 1,750 miles, the estimated transit time is 4 to 6 days.
For longer, cross-country trips up to 2,500 miles, you can expect delivery within 7 to 10 days.
Video Example:
Loading up a classic car for transport
Why Trust Our Classic Car Shipping Service
Proven Reliability
Customer Satisfaction
Our customer-centric approach ensures your satisfaction with transparent communication, dedicated support, and regular updates throughout the shipping process.
Diverse Service Options
Choose from a wide range of services, including open and enclosed carriers, expedited shipping, and custom solutions tailored to your specific needs.
How Much Does It Cost to Transport a Classic Car?
The cost to ship a classic car depends on several key factors. Our goal is to provide a transparent and personalized quote that accurately reflects the service you need. Here are the primary factors that influence your final price:
Distance: The length of your journey is the main driver of the overall cost. While a longer trip has a higher total price, the cost per mile generally decreases the farther your car travels.
Locations: Transporting a car to or from a major metropolitan area with easy highway access is often more affordable than shipping to a remote or rural location.
Trailer Type: Your choice between an open or enclosed carrier is a significant factor. While an open carrier is the most economical option, an enclosed trailer is a premium service that costs more due to the added protection and specialized handling.
Vehicle Details: The size and weight of your classic car are influential factors. Modifications, such as custom body kits, can also affect the final rate.
Seasonality: Prices fluctuate throughout the year. Costs tend to be higher during peak seasons, such as the summer and holidays, when more people are relocating.
By providing these details, you’ll receive a personalized quote tailored to the specific needs of your classic car.
Why Choose Us for Your Classic Car Shipping?
Your classic car is a valuable asset, and we believe your transport service should reflect that. We have built a reputation for professionalism and expert care.
Transparent Pricing: The rate we quote is the rate you pay—it will never be raised. We require no deposit until your vehicle is loaded, and the final balance is not due until delivery.
Constant Communication: We will keep you updated throughout the entire transport. You can call us anytime for an update; our customer service is the most responsive in the industry.
Spotless Reputation: Our customers love us. We encourage you to check our online transport reviews to see why we are a top-rated service.
Expert Care: With over 15 years in business and more than 50,000 cars transported, our team is trained to handle all types of classic vehicles. We use modern, safe equipment to ensure your vehicle is protected every mile of the journey.
Classic Car Transport to or From Any State
Your classic car deserves a service as unique as it is. Number 1 Auto Transport provides professional shipping to or from all 50 states, ensuring your prized vehicle receives the specialized care it needs, no matter the destination. Our reputation as a top-tier provider is built on our commitment to safety and professionalism. Every driver in our network is thoroughly vetted, maintains a clean driving record, and is in good standing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), giving you complete peace of mind.
Classic Car Transport FAQs
We specialize in transporting all types of vehicles, including non-running classic cars. Our drivers are equipped with specialized winches and other tools to safely load your vehicle onto the transport carrier. When you request your quote, simply inform us that your classic car is inoperable so we can assign the right equipment for the job.
To ensure a smooth transport, we recommend a few simple steps. Remove any personal belongings from the vehicle, ensure the fuel tank is no more than a quarter full, and secure any loose parts. We also advise taking detailed photos of your car’s exterior and interior before pickup to document its condition for your records.
Enclosed transport is highly recommended for classic, vintage, and exotic vehicles. While open transport is available, an enclosed trailer provides a sealed environment that protects your car from road debris, dust, and all weather conditions. It also offers a higher level of insurance coverage, providing complete peace of mind for your valuable investment.
Open-air trailers offer no protection from the elements but are suitable for the standard sedan, pickup truck, or SUV. Enclosed vehicle transportation involves shipping the vehicle in a fully enclosed trailer. This offers a higher level of protection and security for the car. Also, it provides more peace of mind for owners of new, high-value, rare, and antique vehicles.
No. The classic car shipping rate we provide is a comprehensive, all-inclusive quote. We are committed to full transparency, which is why we do not charge a deposit until your vehicle is loaded onto the truck. The price you are quoted is the price you pay, with no unexpected fees.
Get a Free Classic Car Shipping Quote
From a cross-country move to a local delivery to an auto show, we provide the same expert care for every vehicle. With a reputation for quality and a focus on customer service, we make shipping your classic car simple and stress-free.
Read our 5-star auto transport reviews and get your free car shipping quote today