Open Vehicle Transport: The Most Efficient Way to Ship Your Car

Open vehicle transport is the most common and cost-effective method for shipping cars across the country or even overseas. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, open auto transport offers an accessible and reliable solution.

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What is Open Vehicle Transport?

Open vehicle transport involves transporting vehicles on an open trailer without sides or a roof. These trailers can carry multiple vehicles at once, making them an affordable option for individuals and dealerships alike.

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How Does Open Car Transport Work?

The process is simple:

1. Booking – You choose a reputable auto transport company and book your service.
2. Vehicle Pickup – Your car is loaded onto an open-air carrier.
3. Transit – The carrier transports your car to the destination.
4. Delivery – Your vehicle is unloaded and delivered to your specified location.

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Types of Open Carriers

There are two main types of open trailers used for vehicle shipping:

1. Two-Level Multi-Car Haulers

• Most common
• Can carry up to 10 vehicles
• Used for long-distance hauls

2. Single-Level Carriers

• Holds 1–3 vehicles
• Used for short-distance transport or high-priority shipments

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Advantages of Open Vehicle Transport

✅ Cost-Effective

Open transport is significantly cheaper than enclosed transport due to higher capacity and lower operating costs.

✅ Widely Available

Because it’s the most popular option, there’s greater availability and faster pickup times.

✅ Efficient

Multi-car haulers allow for batch deliveries, reducing fuel use and costs.

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Disadvantages of Open Transport

❌ Exposure to Elements

Vehicles are exposed to weather, dust, and road debris during transport.

❌ Less Protection

Unlike enclosed trailers, there’s no shield against external damage (though rare, minor scratches can happen).

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Who Should Choose Open Vehicle Transport?

• Car Dealerships: Moving multiple vehicles at once
• Online Car Buyers: Buying a car out of state
• Relocating Families: Transporting cars during a move
• Students/Military: Shipping a car to a new location

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Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Which is Better?

Feature	Open Transport	Enclosed Transport
Price	Lower	Higher
Vehicle Protection	Basic	Maximum (weather-proof)
Availability	High	Moderate
Ideal for	Everyday vehicles	Luxury, exotic, classic

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How Much Does Open Car Transport Cost?

Costs vary depending on:

• Distance
• Vehicle size & weight
• Pickup/drop-off locations
• Time of year

Average Prices (within the U.S.):

• Short distance (under 500 miles): $300 – $600
• Medium distance (500–1500 miles): $600 – $1000
• Long distance (1500+ miles): $1000 – $1500

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Tips for Preparing Your Car for Open Transport

1. Clean the Vehicle – Easier to inspect for damage.
2. Remove Personal Items – They are not covered by transport insurance.
3. Document Existing Damage – Take photos for records.
4. Disable Alarms – Prevent unnecessary disruptions.
5. Maintain Low Fuel Level – 1/4 tank is ideal.

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Is Open Car Shipping Safe?

Yes! Open vehicle transport is very safe. Thousands of cars are shipped every day using this method. Reputable carriers are insured and follow strict regulations.

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How Long Does Open Transport Take?

• Short distances: 1–3 days
• Medium distances: 3–5 days
• Long distances: 5–10 days

Transit time depends on weather, traffic, and route availability.

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Choosing the Right Open Transport Company

Look for:

• FMCSA Registration
• Positive Reviews
• Transparent Pricing
• Insurance Coverage
• Real-Time Tracking

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Open Auto Transport for Dealerships

Car dealerships often use open trailers to ship new or used cars in bulk. It’s affordable and scalable—ideal for moving inventory between lots or delivering to customers.

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Seasonal Demand and Pricing

Prices and availability can fluctuate due to seasonal trends:

• Summer & Holidays: Higher demand = higher prices
• Winter: Longer transit times due to weather

Book early to lock in the best rates.

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Final Thoughts: Is Open Vehicle Transport Right for You?

If you’re looking to ship a standard car, SUV, or truck without spending a fortune, open vehicle transport is likely your best option. It’s safe, affordable, and widely available—perfect for everyday car owners and businesses alike.

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FAQs About Open Vehicle Transport

Q: Is my car insured during open transport?
Yes, all carriers are required to have liability and cargo insurance.

Q: Can I ship an inoperable car via open transport?
Yes, but you must notify the carrier as special equipment may be needed.

Q: Can I pack belongings in my car?
It’s generally discouraged due to insurance limits and weight restrictions.