Have you just bought a car in Germany or are you moving and don’t want to drive thousands of kilometres alone? Car transport by car carrier is the most widely used solution in Italy precisely because it’s flexible, safe and often the most cost-effective. But it’s not a “plug-and-play” service: it requires a bit of attention to avoid delays, damage or surprises on the bill.
In this guide I explain everything you need to know, with real-life examples drawn from actual experiences, without unnecessary fluff. From choosing the type of car carrier to preparing the vehicle, covering times, costs and tips for picking the right transporter.
What a Car Carrier Is and How It Really Works
A car carrier (also called “bisarca” or car transporter) is a special truck with two inclined levels and hydraulic ramps. It can carry up to 8-10 cars at once, stacking them on two decks.
Loading takes just a few minutes: the driver lowers the ramps, secures each vehicle with reinforced straps and anti-slip supports, then drives off. Unloading is the reverse. Everything happens outdoors, without needing cranes or complex equipment, as long as there is manoeuvring space (at least 6-7 metres front and back).
This is exactly its biggest advantage: door-to-door pickup and delivery in most cases.
When Car Transport by Car Carrier Is Really Worth It
The car carrier is the right choice in most situations, but not always.
It makes sense when:
- The car is drivable and in good condition
- The distance is medium to long (over 300 km)
- You don’t have extreme urgency (you can wait 4-8 days)
- You want to save compared to a tow truck or a driver
It doesn’t make sense if:
- The car is badly damaged (tow truck is better)
- You need delivery the same day (driver is better)
- You’re moving a very high-value or fragile vehicle (consider enclosed carrier or container)
Open vs Enclosed Car Carrier: Which One to Choose
The difference is all about protection.
Open car carrier (the most common):
- Cheaper
- More available
- Perfect for normal cars
Enclosed car carrier (fully covered truck):
- Protects against rain, hail, debris and prying eyes
- Ideal for new cars, classics, supercars or vehicles with light-coloured leather interiors
Choose the enclosed version if the car’s value exceeds €30,000 or if bad weather is forecast. It costs more, but it saves you from nasty surprises.
Realistic Delivery Times and What Influences Them
Average times for car transport by car carrier are 4-7 days for domestic routes.
What speeds everything up:
- Combined load (the truck is already heading towards your area)
- Easy-to-reach addresses
- Drivable car
What slows it down:
- Non-drivable car (needs forklift or tail-lift)
- Narrow streets or ZTL zones
- Summer period (transport companies on holiday)
- Routes with alpine passes in winter
A tip: always ask if the transporter uses combined loading. It can save you 1-2 days.
How Much Does Car Transport by Car Carrier Cost
The price is never fixed and depends on several factors:
- Actual distance
- Type of carrier (open or enclosed)
- Car condition (drivable or non-drivable)
- Address accessibility
- Any extra insurance or urgency
Rough order-of-magnitude examples (2025):
- Medium northern-central route (e.g. Milan-Rome): from a few hundred to about €1,200-1,800
- Long north-south route: often between €1,000 and €2,500
- Enclosed carrier or non-drivable car: +30-50% approximately
The best way to know the real cost is to compare multiple quotes with your car’s exact details.
Drivable vs Non-Drivable / Damaged Car: Practical Differences
If the car drives (engine, brakes and battery ok), loading is quick and cheaper.
If it’s damaged, stationary for months or non-drivable:
- Forklift or hydraulic tail-lift is required
- Extra cost (usually €80-200)
- +1 day in time
- Some transporters may refuse if not declared
Declare it immediately in the quote: serious transporters have the right equipment, but they need to know in advance.
Car Preparation: Printable Checklist
Before pickup, prepare everything to avoid refusals or issues:
- Empty the passenger compartment and boot completely (personal items = insurance risk)
- Leave the fuel tank at 10-15% (fire safety)
- Take photos from every angle + short video
- Prepare a spare set of keys (driver keeps one)
- Temporarily disable alarm and GPS tracker
- Remove temporary plates if present
- Clean windows and interior (makes checks easier)
- Secure any fragile accessories
What You Can (and Cannot) Leave Inside the Car
General rule: nothing valuable and nothing personal.
You can leave:
- Empty dashboard, spare wheel, standard tools
You cannot leave:
- Documents, money, valuables, electronics, luggage
- Extra flammable liquids
Anything left inside can void insurance or cause customs complications.
Insurance and Liability: What You Need to Know
Every serious transport includes carrier insurance (damage during transit).
Always ask:
- The coverage limit (usually €50,000-150,000 per vehicle)
- Typical exclusions (pre-existing scratches, wear)
- How to contest damage (photos + delivery report)
For high-value cars add all-risk cover (+10-15%).
How to Choose a Reliable Transporter
Signs of trustworthiness:
- Registered with the Italian Hauliers Register
- Recent reviews on Google/Trustpilot (at least 4.5 stars)
- Sends mandatory pre-pickup photos
- Clear quote with times and coverage limits
- Responds quickly and explains everything
Avoid anyone who gives you only a price via WhatsApp without a contract.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving addresses in ZTL zones or narrow alleys
- Not declaring a non-drivable car
- Leaving personal items inside
- Expecting “two-day” delivery
- Forgetting to disable satellite alarm
Comparison Table: Which Method to Choose
| Method | When it makes sense | Pros | Cons | Practical notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open car carrier | Normal car, average budget | Cheap, fast, door-to-door | Exposed to dust and minor impacts | Ideal for most cases |
| Enclosed car carrier | High-value or new car | Total protection | More expensive, lower availability | Perfect for supercars and classics |
| Tow truck | Car broken down or damaged | Loads anywhere, even roadside | High cost, limited distance | Only for emergencies |
| Driver | Drivable car, high urgency | Fast times, car driven | Depends on driver, more expensive | Good for same-day delivery |
| Ship (RO-RO) | Move with luggage or to islands | Can load personal belongings | Long times, port-to-port | Only if you have time and luggage |
How Trasportami Works for Your Car Transport
- Enter the route, car model, whether it’s drivable or not, and addresses.
- Compare 3-5 real offers from car carrier specialists.
- Choose the one that convinces you and follow the tracking with photos and support.
For your car transport by car carrier, enter your details on Trasportami: in just a few minutes you’ll have clear quotes and can choose with complete peace of mind.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Car Transport by Car Carrier
How long does car transport by car carrier take? Usually 4-7 days; it can vary with combined load or non-drivable car.
Can I ship a damaged car with a car carrier? Yes, but it must be declared immediately: special equipment is needed and the cost increases.
Does an enclosed car carrier cost much more? Usually +30-50%; it’s worth it for valuable cars or bad weather.
What happens if the address isn’t accessible? The transporter may refuse pickup or apply an extra fee; better to indicate a nearby parking spot.
Do I have to empty the car completely? Yes, absolutely. Personal items can void the insurance.
Does the car carrier come right to my house? Almost always, as long as there’s manoeuvring space; otherwise an alternative point is used.
How do you contest any damage? With pre-pickup photos + delivery report; carrier insurance steps in.
Does Trasportami only work with open car carriers? No, it offers enclosed, non-drivable and international routes too.
