How to Become an Enclosed Car Hauler (Rev Up Your Career!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of transporting valuable vehicles securely or wondered what it takes to become an enclosed car hauler, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as an enclosed car hauler. We’ll talk about:

The skills you need.
The training that can help you succeed.
How to land a job as an enclosed car hauler.

So, whether you’re a driving novice or an experienced hauler looking to specialize, stay tuned.

We’re about to provide the blueprint to become an enclosed car hauler.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Enclosed Car Hauler

Step 1: Understand the Job

The first step in becoming an enclosed car hauler is understanding the job and its requirements.

A car hauler’s primary responsibility involves transporting vehicles from one location to another, typically using a large truck and trailer.

Enclosed car haulers are specialized in transporting high-end, classic, or specialty vehicles that require additional protection from the elements and potential damage during transit.

This role requires a high degree of responsibility and attention to detail, as you’ll be entrusted with the safe and efficient transport of expensive and often irreplaceable vehicles.

You should be comfortable with long-distance driving and be able to plan routes effectively, taking into account various factors like fuel consumption, traffic, and weather conditions.

Additionally, you’ll need to have solid knowledge of loading and unloading procedures, ensuring vehicles are secured properly, and reducing the risk of damage during transit.

You’ll also need to be skilled in customer service, as you’ll interact with clients, often car dealers or private car owners, providing them with updates and ensuring their satisfaction with your service.

Before deciding to become an enclosed car hauler, you should fully understand these job expectations and evaluate whether it aligns with your skills, interests, and lifestyle.

You should also consider the physical demands of the job, such as loading and unloading vehicles, and the potential for long periods away from home due to the nature of long-haul transport.

Step 2: Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent

To become an enclosed car hauler, a high school diploma or its equivalent is often the minimum educational requirement.

Basic subjects like mathematics, English, and physics will provide a good knowledge base for this job role.

In high school, you can also take advantage of vocational courses, if available, which can give you a head start in understanding logistics, mechanics, and other transportation-related subjects.

Some employers might accept relevant work experience in place of formal education.

However, having a high school diploma or equivalent can open up more job opportunities and lay the foundation for further training or education that you might want to pursue in the future.

It will also provide you with the basic literacy and numeracy skills needed to handle the administrative part of the job, such as maintaining logs and understanding work orders.

Additionally, during this time, it’s beneficial to obtain a driver’s license if you haven’t already.

This is a key step in being able to legally operate a vehicle and it’s a prerequisite for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which is required to drive large transport vehicles, like an enclosed car hauler.

Step 3: Acquire a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a fundamental requirement for anyone aiming to become an Enclosed Car Hauler.

The CDL is a professional driver’s license that permits the holder to operate large, heavy, and hazardous material vehicles that regular licenses wouldn’t cover.

To obtain a CDL, you must first meet certain requirements.

These include being at least 18 years old (21 if you intend to drive interstate), having a valid driver’s license, and passing a series of physical examinations.

Once these prerequisites are met, you’ll need to enroll in a state-approved truck driving school where you’ll undergo comprehensive training.

The duration varies but typically lasts between 3-6 months.

Training covers classroom-based theory lessons and practical hands-on driving experience.

After the training, you must pass a written test on highway safety and a demonstration test of driving skills in the type of vehicle you plan to drive.

The CDL has different classes, and for an Enclosed Car Hauler, a Class A license is most common as it allows you to operate vehicle combinations weighing over 26,001 pounds.

Keep in mind that some states may require endorsements for specific vehicles.

In this case, additional tests may be necessary.

Having a CDL not only legalizes your operation of these larger vehicles but also reinforces your credibility and capability in the eyes of potential employers in the car hauling industry.

It’s a key step in your journey to becoming an Enclosed Car Hauler.

Step 4: Obtain Required Endorsements for Car Hauling

As an enclosed car hauler, specific endorsements may be required on your commercial driver’s license (CDL).

These endorsements are additional skills certifications that allow you to haul specific types of loads, such as cars.

For car hauling, you will often need a Class A CDL along with a specific endorsement for operating enclosed car haulers.

To obtain these endorsements, you may need to undergo additional training and pass further exams.

Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to find out exactly what training and tests are required for the endorsements you need.

You should aim to gain these endorsements as soon as possible, as they will significantly expand your job opportunities within the car hauling industry.

Remember, driving an enclosed car hauler requires a significant amount of skill and responsibility.

Therefore, the additional training and endorsements are crucial to ensure you can safely and effectively operate the vehicle and handle the valuable cargo inside.

Step 5: Gain Experience in Truck Driving

Before you can begin your career as an enclosed car hauler, it is essential to gain experience in truck driving.

This can be accomplished by obtaining a job as a truck driver, where you will learn the practical aspects of the trade, such as handling the vehicle in various road and weather conditions, understanding routes and navigation, and the principles of loading and unloading cargo safely.

While working as a truck driver, make sure to drive different types of trucks to understand the nuances of each vehicle.

This experience is invaluable, as enclosed car haulers often deal with custom-built trailers, which require specific handling skills.

Additionally, driving long distances and managing tight schedules will build your endurance and time management skills – both crucial for successful car hauling.

It’s also a great opportunity to understand the paperwork involved in transporting goods, such as bills of lading and delivery receipts.

Once you’ve gained enough experience in truck driving, you can consider moving up to more specialized roles, such as an enclosed car hauler.

Step 6: Learn How to Operate Enclosed Car Hauling Equipment

As an Enclosed Car Hauler, you must be proficient in operating specific equipment.

This involves understanding how to safely load and unload vehicles in and out of the enclosed trailer, properly secure the vehicles for transport, and maneuver the trailer on various types of roads and in different weather conditions.

You may find that different types of cars and vehicles require specific techniques and equipment for safe and efficient loading and unloading.

Moreover, understanding how to use straps, winches, and other securing tools is crucial to prevent damage to the vehicles in transit.

Some companies offer on-the-job training to help new haulers learn the ropes, while others may expect you to have these skills prior to hiring.

Training can also be obtained through vocational schools or truck driving schools that offer specialized courses in car hauling.

Finally, getting hands-on experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering is highly beneficial.

This real-world experience can give you a greater understanding of the intricacies and challenges of the job, which can make you more confident and competent when you start working full time.

Step 7: Find Employment with a Car Hauling Company

After receiving the appropriate training and licenses, start looking for jobs with car hauling companies.

These companies often provide the enclosed trailers and trucks necessary for the job, which can be a significant financial relief for beginners in the trade.

There are many ways to find these jobs.

You can search online job boards, truck driving job fairs, or go directly to company websites.

You can also leverage networking by talking to people in the industry and joining online forums or communities.

When choosing a company to work for, consider factors like their reputation, safety record, pay rate, benefits, and the type of vehicles they haul.

Some companies may specialize in certain types of vehicles, such as luxury cars or classic cars, which may require additional skills or offer higher pay.

Once you’ve found a job, you’ll usually start out as an entry-level hauler under the supervision of more experienced haulers.

This will give you an opportunity to gain practical experience and learn the ins and outs of the trade.

As you gain more experience and prove your reliability, you’ll have opportunities to take on more complex hauling jobs.

Step 8: Practice Safe Driving and Car Loading Techniques

As an Enclosed Car Hauler, one of the most critical aspects of your job will be to ensure the safety of the vehicles you are transporting.

You will need to master the techniques of safe driving to prevent accidents or damages during transit.

This includes understanding how to navigate different types of roads and weather conditions, how to properly manage your speed and braking, and how to maneuver your hauler in tight spaces.

In addition to safe driving, you will also need to learn and practice the correct techniques for loading and unloading cars onto your hauler.

Different types of vehicles may require different loading techniques.

You must ensure that cars are securely fastened and balanced to prevent shifting during transport.

This often involves the use of ramps, winches, and tie-downs, which you should become familiar with.

To practice these skills, you can seek out training programs or apprenticeships that provide hands-on experience.

You can also learn a great deal by shadowing experienced haulers.

Remember, the safety and condition of the cars you transport, and the satisfaction of your customers, rely heavily on these essential skills.

Step 9: Keep Up with Maintenance of Hauling Equipment

As an enclosed car hauler, you are responsible for transporting vehicles safely and securely.

A significant part of ensuring this is by maintaining your equipment regularly.

Your hauling equipment includes your truck and trailer, both of which should be in optimal operating conditions at all times.

Start with regular inspections of your hauler and trailer.

Check for any visible damages or irregularities in the bodywork, tires, lights, and axles.

Pay special attention to the enclosed trailer, ensuring that the doors, ramps, and locking mechanisms are functioning properly.

Next, ensure that your hauling truck’s engine, brakes, transmission, and electrical systems are in good shape.

Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and checking brake fluid levels are essential.

Also, keep an eye on tire pressure and thread depth – both crucial for safe hauling.

Maintenance of your hauling equipment isn’t limited to the mechanical aspects.

Ensure that the interior of your enclosed trailer is clean and free of any debris that may damage the vehicles.

Regular cleaning and disinfection are necessary.

Remember, your hauling equipment is your livelihood.

Regular maintenance not only ensures the safety of the vehicles you are transporting but also prevents costly repair and downtime.

Therefore, keeping up with the maintenance of your hauling equipment is a crucial step in your career as an enclosed car hauler.

Step 10: Stay Updated with Transportation Regulations

As an enclosed car hauler, it’s crucial to consistently keep yourself updated with the latest transportation regulations.

These rules can change at both a state and federal level, and being unaware of these changes can lead to costly penalties or even the loss of your commercial driver’s license (CDL).

You should regularly check websites like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) to stay informed about updates to laws concerning weight limits, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement.

You can also sign up for newsletters from these agencies or join industry associations that provide regular updates to their members.

In addition, try to attend industry events, workshops or seminars where new regulations are discussed.

This will not only keep you informed but also help you connect with other professionals in your field and share best practices.

Remember, maintaining a clean driving record and staying compliant with all transportation regulations is crucial for the success and longevity of your career as an enclosed car hauler.

Step 11: Consider Self-Employment Opportunities

Once you have established yourself as an enclosed car hauler with a number of years of experience under your belt, you may want to consider self-employment opportunities.

This could involve starting your own car hauling business.

This step requires a significant amount of planning, investment, and business acumen.

Firstly, you will need to develop a comprehensive business plan which outlines your service offerings, target market, marketing strategies, and financial projections.

A strong business plan is not only crucial for your business’s strategic direction, but also for securing financing if necessary.

Next, consider the initial investment required to purchase your own enclosed car trailer and truck.

Keep in mind that owning your own equipment comes with additional responsibilities including maintenance, repairs and insurance.

Additionally, you will need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate your car hauling business.

This will often involve passing a background check and demonstrating a clean driving record.

Finally, you will need to establish your business’s operations.

This includes setting your rates, developing a client acquisition strategy, and setting up your financial systems for invoicing and taxation.

Being self-employed gives you the opportunity to be your own boss and potentially earn more income.

However, it also comes with more responsibilities and risks.

It’s important to weigh these factors carefully before deciding to start your own car hauling business.

Step 12: Maintain Good Physical Health and Stamina.

Being an enclosed car hauler is a physically demanding job.

It requires strength to tie down vehicles, endurance to handle long driving hours, and agility to climb up and down from truck cabins and onto trailers.

Therefore, maintaining good physical health and stamina is critical for long-term success in this role.

Regular exercise, including both strength and cardiovascular training, can help maintain physical health and build stamina.

Consider incorporating activities such as weightlifting, running, or swimming into your weekly schedule.

In addition to exercise, maintaining a balanced diet is also important.

Make sure to consume ample amounts of protein for muscle repair, carbohydrates for energy, and plenty of fruits and vegetables for overall health.

Hydration is also key, especially during long driving stints.

Lastly, getting enough rest and sleep is crucial to recover from the physical demands of the job and maintain alertness while driving.

Remember to take breaks when needed and prioritize your health above all else, as the long-term success in this field greatly depends on physical well-being.

Enclosed Car Hauler Roles and Responsibilities

An Enclosed Car Hauler is a professional driver who transports vehicles safely and securely within a fully enclosed trailer.

They are responsible for loading and unloading vehicles, ensuring the security of the vehicles during transport, and delivering the vehicles in a timely manner.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Vehicle Loading and Unloading

Load and unload vehicles from the enclosed trailer safely.
Inspect vehicles before and after transport to identify any damage.
Secure vehicles within the trailer to prevent movement during transit.

Vehicle Transport

Transport vehicles safely and securely using a fully enclosed trailer.
Plan and follow the most efficient routes for delivery.
Ensure that transport activities comply with federal, state, and local regulations.

Customer Service

Communicate with customers regarding pick-up and delivery schedules.
Handle customer inquiries and complaints professionally.
Conduct vehicle handover to the customer and explain condition reports.

Trailer Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance checks on the enclosed trailer.
Ensure the trailer is clean and prepared for each vehicle transport.
Report any mechanical issues or breakdowns immediately.

Documentation

Prepare and maintain accurate records of vehicle transport.
Document any damage or incidents that occur during transport.

Safety Compliance

Follow all safety regulations and standards during vehicle transport.
Use proper equipment and safety gear while loading and unloading vehicles.
Participate in safety trainings and keep up-to-date with safety regulations.

Communication

Communicate effectively with dispatchers, customers, and other drivers.
Report any delays or unexpected situations during transport.

Continuous Learning

Stay updated with new transport regulations and industry trends.
Participate in workshops, training programs, and driving courses to improve skills.

What Does an Enclosed Car Hauler Do?

An Enclosed Car Hauler is a professional who operates a specialized vehicle for transporting cars and other vehicles from one place to another, typically using an enclosed trailer.

These professionals are often hired by auto dealerships, manufacturing companies, or private individuals who require the safe transportation of vehicles across long distances.

The primary responsibility of an Enclosed Car Hauler is to ensure the safe and secure transit of vehicles.

This includes loading vehicles onto the trailer, securing them to prevent movement during transit, and unloading them at the destination.

They also have to inspect the vehicles before and after transportation to identify any damages that might have occurred during transit.

This means they need a basic understanding of automotive structure and functions.

Enclosed Car Haulers are also tasked with the maintenance and upkeep of their hauling equipment, as well as ensuring that their operations adhere to relevant safety regulations and procedures.

Route planning is another critical aspect of their job as they need to identify the most efficient and safest routes for transportation.

They may also need to handle paperwork related to the transit of vehicles, such as bills of lading or customs documentation for international shipments.

Lastly, an Enclosed Car Hauler often serves as the point of communication between the shipping and receiving parties, providing updates about the delivery status and addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during the transportation process.

Essential Enclosed Car Hauler Skills

Driving Skills: A primary duty of an enclosed car hauler is to drive long distances. Therefore, a clean driving record and excellent driving skills are essential, including knowledge of driving rules and regulations.
Physical Stamina: The job often requires loading and unloading vehicles, which can be physically demanding. Therefore, physical fitness and stamina are crucial.
Mechanical Knowledge: Familiarity with the basics of car mechanics is beneficial. This could include understanding how to safely secure vehicles for transport and addressing minor mechanical issues that may arise during transport.
Customer Service: Enclosed car haulers often interact with customers, so excellent customer service skills are vital. This includes clear communication, patience, and the ability to handle complaints or issues professionally.
Time Management: Punctuality is critical in this role, as customers expect their vehicles to be delivered on time. Effective time management skills can ensure timely deliveries and maintain customer satisfaction.
Navigation Skills: An enclosed car hauler should be able to use GPS effectively and also have a good sense of direction to ensure accurate and efficient delivery routes.
Problem-solving Skills: The ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently is crucial. This could include dealing with a breakdown, handling unexpected traffic, or finding an alternate route if necessary.
Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations is critical. This includes understanding how to safely load and unload vehicles, proper use of equipment, and adherence to traffic laws.
Attention to Detail: Enclosed car haulers must ensure that vehicles are not damaged during transport. This requires meticulous attention to detail and careful handling of vehicles.
Documentation Skills: Enclosed car haulers often need to manage paperwork related to vehicle transport, including receipts, inspection forms, and delivery documentation. Therefore, good administrative skills are essential.
Stress Management: Long driving hours and tight schedules can be stressful. Therefore, effective stress management skills are crucial to maintain performance and overall well-being.
Teamwork: Although much of the job is independent, enclosed car haulers also need to work effectively with dispatchers, managers, and other team members. Therefore, good teamwork skills are essential.

Enclosed Car Hauler Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Car Hauler

Your journey typically begins as a Junior Car Hauler.

At this stage, you’ll learn the ropes of the business, gain practical experience in safe loading and unloading of vehicles, and understand how to handle the specialized enclosed car hauler equipment.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Learn Continuously: Acquire knowledge about different types of vehicles, and their specific loading and unloading requirements.
Understand the Equipment: Become proficient in the use and maintenance of enclosed car hauler equipment.
Safety First: Understand and adhere to all safety regulations and procedures.

The Ascent: Enclosed Car Hauler

As you gain experience and confidence, you’ll transition into the role of an Enclosed Car Hauler.

You will be responsible for hauling cars within a state or across states, ensuring their safe delivery to the client’s location.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Driving Skills: Improve your driving skills, especially for long distances and in different weather conditions.
Customer Service: Learn to interact effectively with customers and provide excellent service.
Time Management: Ensure timely delivery of vehicles by planning routes efficiently.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Enclosed Car Hauler

The next rung on the ladder is the Senior Enclosed Car Hauler position.

At this stage, you’re recognized for your expertise and may take on mentoring roles, supervise loading and unloading operations, and ensure adherence to safety standards.

To excel as a Senior Enclosed Car Hauler:

Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help junior car haulers grow.
Operational Efficiency: Look for ways to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
Leadership: Demonstrate leadership and ensure compliance with company policies and regulations.

Beyond the Horizon: Transportation Supervisor and Beyond

As your career progresses, you may choose to move into a supervisory or management role, such as a Transportation Supervisor or Manager.

These roles involve managing a team of car haulers, scheduling, and dispatching.

Here’s what to focus on:

Organizational Skills: Develop skills to manage schedules, routes, and deliveries effectively.
Management Skills: Learn to manage teams, resolve conflicts, and motivate your team for better performance.
Customer Relations: Manage customer relationships and ensure customer satisfaction.

Pinnacle of Success: Director of Transportation or VP of Operations

You may reach roles like Director of Transportation or VP of Operations at the highest echelons of the enclosed car hauling career ladder.

Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall strategy of the transportation department, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams.

Enclosed Car Hauler Salary

Entry-Level Enclosed Car Hauler

Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
Entry-level enclosed car haulers typically have 0-2 years of experience and require a high school diploma or GED, along with a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Mid-Level Enclosed Car Hauler

Median Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year
Mid-level haulers have 2-5 years of experience and are often responsible for longer routes, customer communications, and ensuring the safe transportation of valuable vehicles.

Senior Enclosed Car Hauler

Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
Senior haulers have 5+ years of experience and typically handle high-value cargo, coordinate with a team of haulers, and mentor new drivers. They may also have roles in planning and logistics.

Lead Enclosed Car Hauler / Transportation Manager

Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
These roles require significant experience and often involve overseeing all transportation operations, including route planning, team management, and decision-making to increase efficiency and safety.

Director of Transportation / Vice President of Logistics

Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, and deep understanding of logistics and transportation management. They often involve setting strategies for the entire transportation division of a company.

Enclosed Car Hauler Work Environment

Enclosed Car Haulers often work for automobile manufacturing companies, car dealerships, and transportation services companies, but they may also find employment with organizations that require regular movement of vehicles such as car rental agencies and auction houses.

Enclosed Car Haulers typically spend a significant amount of their working hours on the road, transporting vehicles from one location to another.

Their work environment is primarily within the cab of their hauler truck and the loading and unloading zones of various facilities.

Depending on the specific nature of their job, they may also need to spend time in storage and maintenance facilities to ensure the vehicles are properly loaded and the hauler is in good condition.

Their work schedules can vary significantly based on their employer’s needs and the distance of the transport route.

Long-haul drivers may spend extended periods away from home.

After gaining enough experience and knowledge, an enclosed car hauler may choose to become an independent contractor or even start their own vehicle transportation business.

FAQs About Becoming an Enclosed Car Hauler

What is needed to become an enclosed car hauler?

To become an enclosed car hauler, you typically need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and specialized training in operating car hauling equipment and loading vehicles into trailers.

Some employers might require experience with driving heavy trucks or other large vehicles.

A good understanding of road safety protocols and the ability to perform basic vehicle maintenance is also essential.

Physical fitness is important as the job can involve heavy lifting and long hours on the road.

Soft skills like good communication and customer service are also beneficial in this role.

How long does it take to be an enclosed car hauler?

The time it takes to become an enclosed car hauler can vary depending on your training path.

If you do not yet have a commercial driver’s license, you will need to obtain one, which can take several months.

After obtaining your CDL, specialized training in car hauling can usually be completed in a few weeks.

Some companies provide on-the-job training for new hires, which can further shorten the time it takes to become an enclosed car hauler.

Can I be an enclosed car hauler without a CDL?

No, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is typically required to become an enclosed car hauler, as you will be operating large commercial vehicles.

The process to obtain a CDL involves passing both written and driving tests, and may also require a physical health examination.

Is being an enclosed car hauler a stressful job?

Being an enclosed car hauler can be stressful at times, as it involves long hours on the road, tight delivery schedules, and the responsibility of safely transporting valuable vehicles.

However, many car haulers find the work satisfying and enjoy the freedom of being on the road and the challenge of safely loading and unloading vehicles.

What are the prospects for enclosed car haulers in the next decade?

The demand for enclosed car haulers is expected to remain steady or even grow in the next decade, driven by the continued need for vehicle transportation across the country.

Increasingly, customers are purchasing vehicles online and requiring long-distance delivery, which can increase opportunities for car haulers.

In addition, the growing popularity of classic and luxury cars, which often require enclosed transportation for protection, may also boost demand for enclosed car haulers.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Setting out on the path to become an enclosed car hauler may not be a walk in the park, but it’s certainly fulfilling.

Equipped with the right knowledge, training, and grit, you’re already making strides towards leaving a significant mark in the transportation industry.

Remember, the journey may be tough, but the possibilities are endless. Your expert skills could lead to the next evolution in vehicle transportation, shaping how we manage, operate, and interact.

So, take that first step. Plunge into gaining experience. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop improving your hauling abilities.

Because the world is waiting for what you can deliver.

And if you’re seeking personalized advice on starting or advancing your career as an enclosed car hauler, check out our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored guidance and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path.

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