Open Auto Transport: The Smart, Affordable Way to Ship Your Car
When it comes to shipping a vehicle across the country, most people face one big question: What’s the best and most affordable transport option? For thousands of drivers each year, the answer is open car transport.
Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a customer, understanding how open transport works can help you save money, time, and stress.
What Is Open Auto Transport?
Open auto transport is a method of vehicle shipping where cars are loaded onto an open-air carrier, typically the same type of trailer you see hauling new cars to dealerships.
These carriers usually hold 7 to 10 vehicles at once, making it the most cost-effective and efficient option in the car shipping industry.
Unlike enclosed transport, which shields cars inside a trailer, open transport leaves vehicles exposed to the elements — but it’s still safe, secure, and widely trusted.
How Open Auto Transport Works
- Get a Quote:
Request a quote from a licensed auto transport company. Prices depend on distance, vehicle type, and route demand. - Schedule Pickup:
Once you confirm your booking, a carrier is assigned and pickup is scheduled (often within 1–5 days). - Vehicle Inspection:
The driver performs a pre-shipment inspection, documenting your vehicle’s condition before loading. - Transportation:
Your vehicle is loaded onto an open carrier and securely fastened. GPS tracking is often available. - Delivery & Final Inspection:
Upon arrival, the driver performs a final inspection to ensure the vehicle arrives in the same condition.
Benefits of Open Auto Transport
Affordable Pricing
Because open carriers transport multiple vehicles at once, costs are shared among customers. This makes it 30–40% cheaper than enclosed transport.
Faster Scheduling
Open transport is the most common method, meaning there’s a larger carrier network and shorter wait times for pickup and delivery.
Safe & Reliable
Despite being open to weather, vehicles are securely strapped and protected against major risks. It’s the standard method dealerships use to move new cars nationwide.
Flexible Routes
Open carriers operate across all major U.S. routes, making it easy to ship to rural, urban, or cross-country destinations.
When to Choose Open Auto Transport
Open transport is ideal for:
- Everyday vehicles (sedans, SUVs, trucks, etc.)
- Relocations or seasonal moves
- Online car purchases (like from Carvana, eBay Motors, or dealerships)
- College students or military personnel moving across states
If you own a luxury, exotic, or classic car, you might consider enclosed transport for extra protection.
Open vs. Enclosed Auto Transport
| Feature | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
| Cost | Most affordable | 30–60% more expensive |
| Protection | Exposed to weather | Fully enclosed |
| Availability | Widely available | Limited |
| Ideal For | Standard vehicles | High-value cars |
Average Cost of Open Auto Transport
| Distance | Average Cost | Cost Per Mile |
| 0–500 miles | $450 – $700 | $1.00 – $1.25 |
| 500–1,000 miles | $700 – $950 | $0.80 – $1.00 |
| 1,000–2,000 miles | $950 – $1,300 | $0.60 – $0.80 |
| 2,000+ miles | $1,300 – $1,700 | $0.50 – $0.70 |
(Prices vary by season, route, and vehicle type.)
Tips for Shipping Your Car Safely
Remove personal belongings and valuables.
Keep the fuel tank at ¼ full.
Take photos before pickup.
Disable alarms.
Confirm the carrier’s insurance coverage.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, dependable, and widely available way to ship your car, open auto transport is the best choice. It’s the same trusted method used by manufacturers and dealerships — balancing affordability with reliability.
Whether you’re moving across the country or buying a car out of state, open auto transport makes the journey simple, safe, and stress-free.
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