Switched from using open trailers to enclosed after a trip to Ohio last year
I used to always go with open carriers because they were cheaper, around $800 for a 600 mile haul. Then I shipped my 1967 Mustang from Chicago to Cleveland in May and a rock kicked up by a truck put a chip in the hood. Cost me $400 to fix it. Now I only do enclosed for anything older than 2000, even if it costs an extra $150. Has anyone else had damage from open transport that made you switch?
My own car got dinged on an open trailer once too, so I feel your pain. Guess I'm just lucky like that. Enclosed is worth the peace of mind, even if my wallet doesn't agree.
I actually read a study once that said like 80% of car damage during transport happens on open trailers, not closed ones. That stat stuck with me because it makes total sense when you think about all the road debris and weather exposure. So yeah, your wallet might not like the enclosed option but your paint job definitely will. Plus, enclosed keeps the car cleaner too so you don't have to spend hours detailing it right after delivery. I'd rather pay a bit more upfront than deal with the headache of fixing rock chips later.