What Is Open Car Auto Transport?
When it comes to shipping a car across the country or even just across state lines, open car auto transport is the most common—and often the most cost-effective—option available. This method involves transporting your vehicle on an open-air trailer, similar to the ones you’ve probably seen on the highway carrying multiple cars stacked on two levels. It’s the industry standard for a reason: it’s efficient, dependable, and budget-friendly.
Whether you’re a dealership moving inventory, a buyer transporting a newly purchased vehicle, or a family relocating to a new state, open transport provides a practical solution without compromising safety.
How Does It Work?
Once you schedule your transport, your vehicle is assigned a spot on an open trailer. These trailers can typically carry up to 10 vehicles, which helps reduce costs. The carrier picks up your car from a designated location—often right from your driveway or a nearby street—and delivers it to the destination using the fastest and safest route.
Your vehicle is secured to the trailer using industry-grade straps and chains, minimizing movement and keeping it stable during transit. The open design of the trailer allows for optimal airflow, reducing pressure buildup on the body of the car and preventing overheating during long journeys.
Benefits of Open Auto Transport
The main advantage is affordability. Because open carriers can transport multiple vehicles at once, the cost is distributed, making it significantly cheaper than enclosed alternatives. This makes it a popular choice for most standard vehicles.
Another benefit is availability. Open carriers are more common than enclosed ones, which means shorter wait times for pickup and delivery, and more flexibility when it comes to scheduling.
Despite being open to the elements, your car is in safe hands. The vast majority of vehicles transported this way arrive in perfect condition. Professional carriers have years of experience handling cars on the road and take precautions to ensure your vehicle is protected throughout the trip.
Is It Safe Despite the Exposure?
It’s natural to worry about your vehicle being exposed to rain, wind, dust, or even bird droppings. But in reality, these are minor concerns. Think of it this way: your car faces the same conditions every day when you drive or park outdoors.
Also, car carriers are equipped with protective materials and tools to ensure vehicles stay secure and are not scratched or dented during loading, transport, or unloading. For standard sedans, SUVs, and trucks, open car auto transport is not just safe—it’s the industry norm.
Who Should Choose Open Transport?
If your car is a daily driver, an older model, or a newly purchased but not exotic vehicle, this option is ideal. It’s also great for:
- Dealerships transferring multiple cars.
- Snowbirds relocating seasonally.
- Families moving homes.
- Car buyers from out-of-state auctions or online marketplaces.
Open transport is also a reliable option for cross-country car shipping, where minimizing cost without sacrificing safety is a top priority.
What About Insurance and Coverage?
All reputable auto transport companies, provide insurance coverage as part of their service. You’ll receive a pre-shipping inspection, a Bill of Lading (BOL), and a post-delivery inspection to confirm that the vehicle arrives in the same condition.
It’s a good idea to review the carrier’s insurance coverage and check if your own auto insurance adds any additional protection for peace of mind.
Preparing for Open Transport
Before the pickup, remove all personal belongings and clean the exterior of your vehicle. A clean car makes it easier to inspect for existing damage. Take photos of your car from various angles. Disable alarms and ensure your gas tank is about a quarter full—just enough to get the car on and off the trailer.
Open car auto transport offers a smart blend of cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and reliability. It’s ideal for everyday vehicles, short- or long-distance moves, and customers who value both affordability and professional service.
With good companies leading the way, getting your vehicle from point A to B has never been easier or more accessible. If you’re looking for practical car shipping without the luxury price tag, this method is likely your best bet. Don’t forget to take care about your car accessories like car mirror, car windscreen/windshield before the trip.
