Tesla Transport: Open or Enclosed, and What Carriers Need

Teslas ship on the same carriers as every other car. The real decision is open or enclosed, and it depends on the car, the finish and the trip. Here’s how to choose, what makes some Teslas different on a trailer, and what to know if you bought one from another state. For the step-by-step prep, see shipping your Tesla.

Open Works for Most Teslas

A daily-driven Model 3 or Model Y on an open carrier sees about what it would on the highway: weather, dust and the odd bit of road grit. Open transport costs less, and more trucks run every route, so it’s usually quicker to schedule. For most owners, it’s the sensible choice.

When Enclosed Is Worth It

• A brand-new car you want to arrive exactly as it left.
• A wrap, paint protection film or ceramic coating you paid good money for.
• A Plaid or a rare build, where a stone chip on the hood is expensive to fix.
• A long winter route through salt and slush.

Enclosed costs more, and there are fewer enclosed trucks, so give us a little more notice. See enclosed auto transport.

Weight and Size

Batteries are heavy, so an EV usually weighs more than a gas car of the same size. Carriers have weight limits as well as space limits, so a heavier car changes how the load is planned. The Cybertruck is the extreme case: big, heavy and wide, it needs the right spot on the right carrier. Always give us the exact model.

Glass Roofs and Ground Clearance

Most Teslas have large glass roofs. On an open carrier, ask about a top-deck spot, where no other car is loaded above yours. If the car is lowered or has an aftermarket front lip, tell us, so the carrier can plan the ramps.

Bought a Tesla From Another State?

Used Teslas often sell online, far from the buyer. Before the carrier picks it up, make sure the seller has removed the car from their Tesla account and that you’ll have at least one key card. Confirm any loan payoff and the title. At delivery, check the charge level, the wheels and the glass roof, and note anything new before you sign. Then add the car to your own Tesla account.

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