Car Carrier: What types of trailers and trucks are used in shipping?

Updated guide to common car carrier trailers and trucks used in vehicle shipping. Short sentences. Clear advice. Practical tips for choosing open vs. enclosed transport, flatbeds, loading steps, and what to expect when your vehicle ships.

Types of Car Carrier Trailers

Car carrier trailers come in a few common styles. Each fits different vehicles and budgets. Below are the main types you’ll see on the road:

• Open multi-level trailers — Standard two-level racks that move several vehicles at once.
• Single-level flatbed trailers — Flat platforms used for oversized, inoperable, or specialty vehicles.
• Enclosed single- or multi-level trailers — Fully enclosed carriers for high-value or classic cars.
• Hot-shot / single-vehicle trailers — Smaller gooseneck or bumper-pull trailers for quick, short hauls.

Open carriers are the industry standard and are widely available nationwide. (bkktransport.com)

Open vs. Enclosed Carriers

Choose based on value, budget, and protection needs. Here’s an easy comparison:

• Open carriers
• Most affordable.
• Fastest to find and book.
• Exposes vehicles to weather and road debris.
• Enclosed carriers
• Extra protection from weather, theft, and road damage.
• Best for classics, luxury, race, and custom cars.
• Higher cost due to limited availability and special handling.

BKK Transport offers both open and enclosed vehicle shipping options to fit different needs. (bkktransport.com)

Common open-carrier types (quick list)

• Multi-level, multi-vehicle open trailers (common interstate carriers).
• Single-level multi-car trailers (useful in tighter urban routes).
• Single-vehicle hot-shot trailers (short-distance, single-car hauls).

Common enclosed-carrier types (quick list)

• Single-vehicle enclosed trailer (gooseneck or bumper-pull).
• Single-level multi-vehicle enclosed trailer (up to ~3 cars in single file).
• Multi-level enclosed trailer (stacked rows, full protection).

Flatbed Truck Transport

Flatbeds are a flexible car transport option when a vehicle can’t be driven onto a ramp or needs to be craned or winched. Use cases include:

• Inoperable vehicles that can’t roll.
• Oversized vehicles or heavy equipment that won’t fit on standard car carriers.
• Vehicles that require horizontal loading due to low clearance.

Flatbeds are often used by specialist teams and may require extra equipment and planning. For larger or unusual loads, contact our truck and heavy-equipment teams for a tailored solution. (bkktransport.com)

Loading and Unloading Procedures

Safety and documentation matter. Here’s a simple checklist for what happens at pickup and delivery:

• Driver calls 3–24 hours before pickup to confirm details. (bkktransport.com)
• Inspect vehicle with driver and note current condition on the bill of lading.
• Remove personal items and disable alarms.
• Confirm fuel level (typically 1/4 tank or less) and secure loose parts.
• Driver uses ramps, lift gates, or winches depending on the trailer type.
• At delivery, do a joint inspection and sign off only after confirming condition.

If a car is non-operational, tell the shipper up front so the proper equipment can be assigned. (bkktransport.com)

Choosing the Right Carrier for Your Vehicle

Ask these quick questions to pick the best option:

• Is the vehicle high value or irreplaceable? If yes, consider enclosed transport.
• Is budget your top priority? Open carriers are usually the most cost-effective.
• Is the vehicle operable or low clearance? Flatbed or enclosed with lift-gate may be needed.
• Do you need door-to-door pickup and delivery? Confirm door-to-door service at booking. (bkktransport.com)

For same-day or expedited needs, drive-away services can be faster if the vehicle is roadworthy. Ask our team about drive-away as an alternative. (bkktransport.com)

Advantages — quick summary

• Open carriers: Lower cost, high availability, fast transit.
• Enclosed carriers: Maximum protection, specialist handling.
• Flatbeds: Best for inoperable or oversized vehicles.

Helpful Resources & Related Pages

• Open Auto Transport — the cheapest option. (bkktransport.com)
• Car Transport — our nationwide car shipping services. (bkktransport.com)
• Vehicle Transport — door-to-door service details. (bkktransport.com)
• Car Shipping FAQs — insurance, timing, and common questions. (bkktransport.com)
• Door-to-door services — pickup and delivery options. (bkktransport.com)
• Drive-away service — alternative for operational vehicles. (bkktransport.com)
• About BKK Transport & Brokerage — contact details and company credentials. (bkktransport.com)

If you have questions about the best trailer for your vehicle, or need a tailored quote, our team can help.

Contact us for a free car carrier quote today. Call 888-666-2202 or text 773-467-7917. (bkktransport.com)