Why Standard Transport Isn't Enough
A vehicle worth $80,000–$300,000+ requires a different risk profile than a $25,000 commuter car. Standard carrier cargo insurance covers $100,000–$250,000 — which may be insufficient for high-value vehicles. The loading method matters: chain tie-downs can damage low-profile wheels and suspension components. Enclosed transport protects the finish from road debris, but the carrier's experience with high-value vehicles matters as much as the trailer type.
What to Require
For any vehicle valued above $75,000, require: enclosed transport with soft-tie (wheel-net) strapping — no chains; a carrier with cargo insurance covering at least the full value of the vehicle; lift-gate loading capability if the vehicle has less than 4 inches of ground clearance; a dedicated or low-volume load (2–4 vehicles maximum on the trailer); and a carrier with documented experience transporting similar vehicles. Your broker should verify all of these before dispatch.
Insurance Considerations
Standard cargo insurance has limits. If your vehicle is worth $200,000 and the carrier's policy covers $150,000, you're exposed for $50,000. Options: require a carrier with sufficient coverage (they exist but charge accordingly), purchase supplemental transit insurance through a specialty provider, or confirm that your personal auto insurance covers transit damage (many policies exclude vehicles in the care of a third-party carrier). Clarify coverage before the vehicle is loaded.
Exotic Car Logistics
Low ground clearance (Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren) requires a trailer with a hydraulic lift gate — not a ramp. Ramp-loaded trailers require the vehicle to drive up an inclined surface, which can scrape front splitters and exhaust components. Wide-body vehicles may not fit in standard enclosed trailer wheel wells. Confirm clearance dimensions with the carrier before booking. Wing or spoiler configurations that exceed standard height may require specific trailer configurations.
Documentation and Inspection
Pre-transport inspection should be exhaustive. Document the condition of every panel, every wheel, every trim piece. Note odometer reading. For exotic vehicles, photograph the undercarriage if accessible. At delivery, inspect under bright lighting — preferably daylight. Transport scratches on dark paint are difficult to see under artificial light or overcast conditions. If you're not comfortable inspecting the vehicle yourself, have a detailer or body shop present at delivery.