A classic car isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a piece of history. Whether it’s a ’69 Camaro, a vintage Porsche 911, or a pre-war Packard, your car represents years of passion, restoration, and investment.
When it comes time to move that vehicle—whether you just bought it at an auction or are moving to a new home—you can’t treat it like a daily driver. It requires specialized care, specific equipment, and a higher level of attention.
At RunBuggyOne, we are experts in classic car transport services and collector car shipping. Here is your essential guide to transporting classic cars safely and securely.
The Big Decision: Open vs. Enclosed Transport
The most critical choice you will make is the type of trailer used.
Open Transport
This is the standard method you see on the highway—multi-car trailers with vehicles exposed to the elements.
- Pros: Cost-effective and readily available.
- Cons: Your vehicle is exposed to rain, dust, road debris, and sunlight.
- Verdict: Good for “driver quality” classics or project cars, but risky for show-quality paint jobs.
Enclosed Transport
This is the “white-glove” standard for classics. Your vehicle is loaded inside a hard-sided trailer, completely shielded from the outside world.
- Pros: Extra protection from weather and road debris. Higher insurance limits. Specialized lift gates for low-clearance vehicles.
- Cons: Higher cost (typically 30-50% more than open).
- Verdict: Highly recommended for restored, high-value, or sentimental classics.
RunBuggyOne offers both options. When you request your quote, simply select “Enclosed” to ensure the highest level of protection.
Preparing Your Classic for Transport
A smooth transport starts before the truck arrives. Follow this checklist to ensure your classic is ready for the journey:
- Check Fluids & Battery: Ensure there are no major leaks. If the vehicle runs, make sure the battery is charged so the driver can load it safely. If it doesn’t run, let us know upfront so we can send a truck with a winch.
- Secure Loose Parts: Classic cars often have removable parts (convertible tops, fog lights, trim). Make sure everything is secured or removed to prevent wind damage.
- Document Condition: Take high-quality photos of every angle of the car before it is loaded. Focus on the odometer, existing scratches, and special features.
- Manage the Fuel: Keep the gas tank about 1/4 full. This saves weight while leaving enough fuel for loading and unloading.
Why “Cheapest” is Dangerous
In the classic car world, you get what you pay for. A “bargain basement” broker might quote you a low price, but they often achieve it by hiring inexperienced drivers with insufficient insurance coverage.
For a classic car, vetting is non-negotiable.
At RunBuggyOne, we vet every carrier in our network. We check their active cargo insurance, their safety rating, and their history. We don’t just put your Ferrari on the back of any random truck; we match it with a professional who knows how to handle it.
Peace of Mind with RunBuggyOne
We know that watching your classic drive away on a truck is stressful. We built our technology to eliminate that anxiety.
- Automated Status Updates: You don’t have to wonder where your car is. Our tracking portal lets you see the status of your shipment at any time.
- Digital Inspections: Your driver will complete a digital photo inspection at pickup and drop-off, accessible instantly via your phone.
- Direct Communication: You can chat directly with the person moving your car.
Treat Your Classic Like the Treasure It Is
Don’t gamble with your investment. Whether you are shipping a concourse-ready show car or a barn find waiting to be restored, choosing the right partner makes all the difference.
Ready to Move Your Classic?
Get a guaranteed price for Enclosed Transport today at runbuggyone.com/order/.
