Multiple Vehicle Transport: How Many Cars Can An Enclosed Car Shipping Trailer Carry?

When moving several vehicles at once, multiple-vehicle transport is the go-to solution for customers. Whether you’re a car collector, a dealership, or someone relocating with multiple vehicles, enclosed car shipping ensures the safest and most secure way to transport them. This article discusses how many cars an enclosed car shipping trailer can carry and what factors affect that capacity.

What is Multiple-Vehicle Transport?

Multiple-vehicle transport involves shipping more than one vehicle at a time, often on trailers built for this specific purpose. There are two main types of trailers used in vehicle transport: open trailers and enclosed trailers. While open trailers are widely used for standard shipping, enclosed car shipping provides extra protection by shielding the vehicles from weather and road debris.

Dealerships, auction houses, and car owners with luxury or classic cars often prefer enclosed shipping. Although this method tends to cost more, it offers superior protection, especially for high-value vehicles. A reliable car transport company will provide multiple options to suit the customer's needs.

Types of Enclosed Car Shipping Trailers

There are two types of enclosed car shipping trailers that car transport companies typically use for multiple-vehicle transport:

Single-level trailers

These trailers hold vehicles on just one floor and usually have space for up to 3-4 cars. They are often used for shipping larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, or luxury cars that need extra space.

Multi-level trailers

Multi-level trailers have two floors, increasing the number of vehicles that can fit. On average, these trailers can hold up to 6-8 cars, depending on the size and weight of the vehicles being transported. Dealerships commonly use multi-level trailers to move multiple cars in a single trip.

Factors That Affect Trailer Capacity

While enclosed trailers offer excellent protection, several factors influence how many cars can fit on them:

Vehicle Size and Type

Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans take up more space, reducing the total number of cars the trailer can carry. A trailer that might fit 7 sedans could only fit 4 SUVs due to their height and length.

Weight Limitations

Every car shipping trailer has a maximum weight capacity. If the combined weight of the vehicles exceeds this limit, fewer cars will fit. For example, a multi-level trailer carrying heavy trucks might max out at 5 vehicles instead of 8.

Trailer Design

Some enclosed trailers have specialized compartments or adjustable ramps to accommodate different car sizes. These features can help optimize space and allow the trailer to carry more vehicles.

State Regulations

Car transport companies must follow weight and size restrictions imposed by different states. These rules may limit the number of vehicles on the trailer, even if space allows for more.

How to Pick the Right Enclosed Car Shipping Option

If you need to move multiple vehicles, choosing the right enclosed shipping trailer depends on your needs and the types of cars being transported. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Number of vehicles: For large moves involving 6 or more cars, a multi-level trailer may be more cost-effective.

• Vehicle size: If you are transporting larger vehicles, confirm with the car transport company how many can fit on their trailers.

• Protection level: Enclosed trailers offer extra protection, but prices are typically 30-50% higher than open transport. Make sure this aligns with your budget.

• Time constraints: Some companies offer expedited shipping options if you need your vehicles delivered quickly. However, faster shipping may increase costs.

Cost of Enclosed Multiple Vehicle Transport

The price for multiple-vehicle transport using enclosed trailers varies based on several factors. On average, customers can expect to pay:

• $1,000 to $2,000 per vehicle for standard enclosed shipping

• $3,000 or more for larger or luxury vehicles requiring extra care

If you are shipping multiple cars, many companies offer discounts. For instance, shipping 4-6 vehicles could reduce the cost per car by 10-20%.

Advantages of Enclosed Car Shipping for Multiple Vehicles

While open trailers are common for bulk transport, enclosed shipping offers several advantages:

• Protection from weather and debris: Enclosed trailers ensure vehicles are safe from rain, dust, and other elements during transport.

• Ideal for luxury or antique cars: Owners of high-value cars prefer enclosed shipping for added security.

• Secure loading and unloading: Most trailers have specialized equipment to load and unload vehicles safely, reducing the risk of damage.

In Summary, choosing multiple-vehicle transport using an enclosed car shipping trailer is an excellent way to move several cars securely. Depending on the trailer type, companies can carry anywhere from 3 to 8 vehicles, though the exact number depends on the size and weight of the vehicles. If you’re transporting luxury, classic, or oversized vehicles, working with a professional car transport company will ensure they arrive safely at their destination.

A passionate blogger focused on the automotive industry.