Car shipping trucks come in two forms: open and enclosed carriers. Open car shipping carriers carry anywhere between 8 and 10 cars. The difference in number is due to the weight of the vehicles being transported. Because the car hauler cannot weight more than a total of 80,000lbs, including cars, trailer and truck, carrying smaller or larger (such as SUV’s) vehicles will determine the final number being hauled. As a general rule, the average car weight is estimated at 2,500 lbs.
Closed car shipping containers carry fewer vehicles. The number rarely exceeds six, and is more likely closer to four. This is because cars shipped inside closed containers need additional space to get in and out of the truck (and for the gate of the truck to operate), as well as for easier maneuverability. Larger vehicles, including trucks and SUV’s, may not fit into closed containers. They provided an increased level of safety for shipping expensive or customized cars.
Both types of car transport trucks are large and difficult to maneuver, which is why they are sometimes impossible to drive through small city streets, making it impossible to deliver cars door to door.