Not every slot on a transport trailer is created equal when shipping a vehicle. During your research on the process of vehicle transport, you’ve likely stumbled across the phrase top load transport. The majority of the people whom request this service are moving luxury vehicles, custom vehicles, or vehicles that have recently been detailed.
What exactly is top load transport, and is the extra expense necessary?
Let’s examine top load transport in a bit more detail.
What Is Top Load Transport?
Top load transport refers to placing a vehicle on the upper deck of a multi-car transport trailer rather than on the lower level.
Most open auto transport carriers have two levels that allow multiple vehicles to be transported simultaneously. The vehicles on the top deck are raised above the vehicles on the bottom deck.
Given the restricted space on the upper deck of each trailer,top load transport is viewed as an exclusive transport method.
Why Do Customers Request Top Load Transport?
The primary reason customers choose top load transport is added protection.
Vehicles transported on the lower deck may be more exposed to:
- Road debris
- Dirt and dust
- Water spray from wet roads
- Fluids that could potentially drip from vehicles positioned above
While professional carriers ensure every vehicle is secured with utmost care, some customers simply prefer the extra sense of security an upper deck offers.
For high-value vehicles the top load transport system can add an additional protective layer while in transit.
What Kinds of Vehicles is the Top Load Transport System Best Suited for?
Top load transport is commonly requested for:
Luxury Vehicles
People transporting luxury vehicles prefer top load transportation so that the vehicle is not subjected to road debris and external factors while being transported.
Classic Cars
Classic and collector vehicles may receive additional protection when positioned on the upper deck of the trailer.
Exotic and Specialty Vehicles
For rare or high-performance vehicles, many owners prefer every available safeguard during transport.
New Paint/Restored Vehicles
When a vehicle has recently had new paint or extensive restoration, top load transport will help protect it from dirt and debris during the transport process.
Is Top Load Transport the Same as Enclosed Transport?
No.
This is one of the most common misconceptions about top load transport.
With top load transport, your vehicle is still shipped on an open carrier. Your vehicle is placed directly onto the upper deck of the trailer.
When you choose to ship with enclosed transport, the vehicle is loaded inside a trailer with a solid exterior, thus making the car invisible to weather, debris, and other external forces.
The closest thing I can compare top load shipping to, is top load shipping is to open car transport what enclosed car transport is to top load shipping.
What Are the Advantages of Top Load Transport?
Less Risk of Road Debris
Vehicles parked in the upper deck are elevated off the road, thereby limiting exposure to rocks, dirt, and debris that may be ejected from vehicles around.
Added Peace of Mind
The majority of people like knowing their vehicle is off the road and out of contact with many typical contamination issues.
Preferred Positioning
In situations with minimal room on the top deck, vehicle owners sometimes want to guarantee themselves what they perceive as the “best” spot on the trailer.
Are There Any Disadvantages?
The biggest consideration is availability.
Because only a few vehicles can be placed on the upper deck, top load requests may:
- Cost more than standard open transport
- Require additional scheduling flexibility
- Have limited availability on certain routes
For many everyday vehicles, standard transport remains a safe and reliable option.
The value of the vehicle’s condition and the owner’s preferences can dictate whether the cost of top load transport is justified.
Should You Choose Top Load Transport?
Top load transport may be a good fit if:
- You own a luxury or exotic vehicle
- Your vehicle has recently been restored
- You want added protection while using open transport
- You prefer premium transport options
However, for the maximum protection from the elements and the road, you may want enclosed transport.
The ideal choice often depends on how much money you are willing to spend relative to the cost and value of your vehicle and your personal comfort levels.
Choosing the Right Transportation Partner
Whether you’re selecting standard transport, top load transport, or another vehicle shipping solution, the transportation provider matters just as much as the transport method itself.
A reputable transportation company should provide:
- Clear communication
- Transparent pricing
- Reliable scheduling
- Experienced drivers
- Professional vehicle handling
We’re not just transferring a car from point A to point B. We’re trying to make the whole process stress-free, safe and smooth from the moment we receive the car until it gets to its final destination.
Trust ATC Driveaway for Your Vehicle Transportation Needs
At ATC Driveaway we know every move is unique, so no matter the vehicle, whether it is an fleet, specialty vehicle or personal vehicle, we offer reliable transportation solutions that cater to you.
With services nationwide and experienced professionals, we’re here to assist you with confidence and ease.
Ready to transport your vehicle safely and efficiently?
Contact ATC Driveaway today to learn more about our nationwide vehicle transportation and driveaway services.
