Open Auto Transport: Everything to Know

Everything you need to know about Open Transport

1/26/2026

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Everything you must know about Open Auto Transport

Directory: Open Transport

Everything to know about Open Auto Transport

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Whether you're shipping a car across the country or just comparing transport options, you'll find expert guides, real pricing insights, seasonal tips, and route-specific breakdowns to help you make informed decisions.

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Explaining Open Auto Transport - Open

1/25/2026

What is Open Auto Transport? What it means to ship a car on an open carrier.

The Basics of Open Auto Transport

Open auto transport is the most popular and affordable way to move standard vehicles like sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. It’s efficient, reliable, and widely available across the country. However, if you own a luxury, exotic, or classic car, you might prefer enclosed auto transport for added protection against weather and road debris.

Why open carrier is most common

Open auto transport is the most commonly used method for vehicle transportation due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This method involves shipping cars on open-air trailers, which are not enclosed, exposing the vehicles to weather and road conditions. Despite this exposure, it remains the most affordable way to transport a car by hauler.

Most Common Method

Selecting the right open carrier

There are several types of open car transport carriers, each designed to meet different needs. These include:

Single-level open carriers
Double-deck multi-car open haulers
High-mount open trailers
Low-profile open trailers
Flatbed auto carriers

This variety allows for flexibility and efficiency in transporting different types of vehicles.

Types of Open Carriers

Types of vehicles for open carrier

Open auto transport is best for daily driver cars and is frequently chosen for shipping standard sedans, compact cars, SUVs, crossovers, pickup trucks, minivans, economy cars, and used cars. It is mainly popular among individuals and car dealerships because it can transport multiple vehicles at once, making it less expensive and more readily available than enclosed carriers.

Regular Vehicles: Daily Drivers

The percentage of people that select open shipping

Approximately 90% of people opt for open auto transport, making it the preferred choice for vehicle shipping. This high preference is due to the practicality, affordability, and efficiency of open carriers. They can transport multiple vehicles simultaneously, which reduces costs and increases availability compared to enclosed carriers. This widespread usage underscores the reliability and popularity of open auto transport for a wide range of vehicles, from standard sedans to SUVs.

Most Commonly Used

Shipping your vehicle on an open auto transport carrier means your car is securely fastened to a multi-vehicle trailer exposed to the open air. It’s the go-to choice for most drivers because it combines cost-efficiency, availability, and dependable service.

How it Works: Open Auto Transport - Open

1/24/2026

Open auto transport is a simple, step-by-step process designed for convenience and transparency. From your first quote to final delivery, each stage ensures your vehicle is handled with care and constant communication.

How Open Auto Transport Works

Here's a step-by-step overview of how open carriers work so you know what to expect:

1. Requesting a Quote for Open Carrier

Requesting quotes for open car transport services is the first step in ensuring a smooth and cost-effective vehicle shipping process. The process typically begins by providing your transport information about the vehicle, such as its make, model, year, and current location. You will need to specify the destination where the vehicle will be transported.

Quote Request Form

2. Selecting the Right Company for Open Transport

Once you've submitted the necessary details, the transport companies will provide you with quotes outlining the cost of transporting your vehicle using open carriers. These quotes factor in various aspects, including the distance, type of vehicle, and any additional services you might require, such as expedited shipping or door-to-door delivery.

About Us

3. Booking Your Open Car Shipper Online

After reviewing and comparing the quotes, you can confidently choose the company that aligns with your budget and requirements. Once you've made your decision, you will finalize the details with the chosen company. This might involve providing additional information they need and confirming the booking.

How to Book

4. Preparing Your Car for Open Transport

Preparing for open auto shipping service involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth experience. Getting your vehicle ready for the trip not only helps the driver safely deliver your vehicle but it also brings peace of mind to you, knowing that you did everything you could to assist with the process.

How to Prepare

5. Vehicle Inspection at Pickup

The vehicle inspection process for open auto hauling entails a thorough assessment of your vehicle's condition before it's loaded onto the carrier. Transport professionals examine both the exterior and interior for any existing damages, scratches, or dents. During the inspection, customers or their representatives can be present to address concerns or questions.

Insurance Coverage

6. Pickup-Up and Loading Process

The loading process for open car transport is a structured and careful procedure. The driver will take care of the loading. All the customer should do is supervise and monitor. So just stand back, relax and let the trained professionals do what they do.

Transport Process

7. Transit Process While on the Road

The transit process of open auto carrier involves the loaded vehicles being transported on the carrier to their designated destination. During transit, the vehicles are exposed to the elements as they are securely fastened to the open trailer. Transport professionals ensure that each vehicle remains firmly in place using straps or wheel chocks to prevent any movement or shifting.

8. Communicate with Open Car Hauler

The tracking and communication process of open auto shipping services involves maintaining a continuous line of contact between the transport company and the customer. This is accomplished by making sure the customer has all the necessary contact numbers to get updates on the vehicles transit.
These phone numbers include:

Car carrier driver
Assigned dispatcher to your order
Main office emergency contact

Driver Communication

9. Delivery at the Destination

The delivery process of open vehicle transport services marks the final stage of the journey. Once the carrier arrives at the destination, the transport professionals carefully unload the vehicles. Using specialized equipment, the vehicles are driven off the carrier and inspected for any potential damage that might have occurred during transit.

10. Final Payment on Completion

The payment process of open car hauling services involves settling the agreed-upon transportation fees once the vehicle has been successfully delivered. Customers make the payment after inspecting the vehicle and confirming its safe arrival. The transport company provides an invoice detailing the cost of the service, which includes factors like distance, vehicle type, and any additional services.

Payment Process

With open auto transport, you can expect a seamless, step-by-step process from obtaining a quote to the final delivery of your vehicle. By selecting the right company, preparing your car, and staying informed during transit, you'll ensure a smooth and efficient experience. Safe, reliable, and cost-effective: open transport makes vehicle shipping hassle-free.

Open Auto Transport Carrier Types - Open

1/23/2026

Open carriers come in several designs to meet different shipping needs. These trailers are the workhorses of the industry as they are efficient, cost-effective, and capable of hauling multiple vehicles across long distances.

There are many different open auto transport carrier types.

Different Types of Open-Air Car Carriers

There are several types of open car carriers, each designed to meet specific needs. Open transporters are a versatile and affordable solution for vehicle shipping. With various types to choose from, they cater to different needs, from local moves to long-distance hauls.

Single-Level Multi-Car Carrier

This type of carrier is a single-level trailer that can transport multiple vehicles. It is typically used for shorter distances or when fewer cars need to be moved.

A single level multi car hauler with 2 vehicles loaded.

Capacity:
Usually holds 2-3 vehicles.
Usage:
Common for local moves or small-scale car transport.

Double-Deck Multi-Car Carrier

The most common type of open car carrier, featuring two levels for vehicle loading. This maximizes the number of vehicles that can be transported in one trip. Keep in mind, moving multiple cars together is a great way to save money on car shipping.

Double-Deck Multi-Car Open Carriers are a great way to save money when shipping cars.

Capacity:
Typically holds 7-12 vehicles, depending on their size and the carrier's design.
Usage:
Ideal for long-distance transport and large-scale moves, such as those for dealerships or auctions.

Low-Profile Trailer

A trailer designed with a low deck height, allowing for taller vehicles to be loaded on the lower deck without exceeding height restrictions.

Capacity:
Usually holds 4-5 vehicles.
Usage:
Suitable for transporting a mix of standard and taller vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks.

Flatbed Trailer for Large Machinery

A flatbed carrier is an open flat trailer with no sides or roof, primarily used when transporting big oversized or non-standard vehicles that don't fit on standard regular car transport carriers.

A flatbed trailer loaded with construction machinery.

Capacity:
Varies widely based on the size of the vehicles being transported.
Usage:
Best for oversized transport needs, such as construction equipment or modified vehicles.

Understanding the different types of open car carriers can help you make an informed decision when choosing the best method for transporting your vehicles. Whether you need to move a single car or multiple vehicles, there is an open car carrier that fits your needs perfectly.

Vehicle Types for Open Auto Transport - Open

1/22/2026

Open auto transport is the preferred choice for everyday vehicles and daily drivers.

Open Auto Transport is perfect for Regular Cars and Daily Drivers.

While cars are exposed to weather during shipment, they remain fully secured and insured under the carrier’s insurance coverage.

Types of Vehicles Perfect for Open Car Shipping

Let's take a look at the regular cars that are perfect for open auto transport:

Standard Sedans

Standard sedans, like Honda Civics and Toyota Camrys, are ideal for open car shipping. These cars are designed for everyday use and are built to withstand regular road conditions, making them well-suited for this type of auto transport.

2018 Toyota Corolla

Examples:
Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion
Why They're Ideal:
Durable and commonly shipped, standard sedans can handle exposure to weather and road debris.

Compact Cars

Compact cars are small and lightweight, making them easy to load and transport on open trailers. Their smaller size allows transporters to fit more vehicles on a single trailer, optimizing space and cost.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle

Examples:
Hyundai Elantra, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Spark, VW Beetle
Why They're Ideal:
Their size and weight make them easy to load and transport efficiently.

SUVs and Crossovers

SUVs and crossovers are commonly shipped using open car transport due to their popularity. These vehicles are built to handle a variety of road conditions and are generally robust, making them a good fit for open trailers.

2000 Lexus LX470

Examples:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Lexus LX
Why They're Ideal:
Sturdy and designed for various road conditions, they can handle exposure during transport.

Pickup Trucks

Pickup trucks are often transported on open trailers. These vehicles are typically used for work and can withstand harsh conditions, so a bit of weather exposure during auto transport is not a concern.

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500hd

Examples:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, RAM 1500
Why They're Ideal:
Built tough, pickup trucks are well-suited to the open car shipping environment.

Minivans

Families often ship minivans when relocating. These vehicles are designed for everyday use and can easily be transported on open car carriers without issues.

2023 Toyota Sienna

Examples:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica
Why They're Ideal:
Practical and robust, minivans are well-suited for open car transport.

Economy Cars

Economy cars are budget-friendly and often chosen for open car shipping. These cars are usually used for daily commutes and can handle the exposure during transit.

2022 Mitsubishi Mirage

Examples:
Nissan Versa, Kia Rio, Mitsubishi Mirage
Why They're Ideal:
Affordable and durable, making them a practical choice for open shipping.

Used Cars

Used cars are frequently shipped using open car transport, especially when bought from dealerships or auctions. Since these cars have already been driven, owners are often less concerned about exposure to the elements.

Used car dealership

Examples:
Any pre-owned vehicle.
Why They're Ideal:
Cost-effective shipping for vehicles that aren’t brand new.

Open auto transport is a great option for a wide range of vehicles. Standard sedans, compact cars, SUVs, crossovers, pickup trucks, minivans, economy cars, and used cars are all well-suited for this method. Whether you're relocating, buying a car from afar, or selling a vehicle, open car transport offers a reliable and affordable way for moving a vehicle safely.

Most Common Method: Open Transport - Open

1/21/2026

Open auto transport dominates the industry, accounting for around 90% of all vehicle shipments. The reason is simple. It’s practical, affordable, and accessible in almost every route nationwide.

90% of auto transport services are provided by open car carriers.

Whether you’re moving one car or an entire dealership fleet, open carriers remain the most flexible solution for quick scheduling and reliable service.

Open Transport: Most Common Selected Option

Approximately 90% of people choose open transport over enclosed auto transport. This is because open carriers can transport more vehicles at once, making them less expensive and more readily available than enclosed carriers. Enclosed auto transport is typically chosen by the remaining 10% who are transporting high-value, classic, or exotic cars and are willing to pay a premium for added protection.

Why Open Transport the Most Common Option

Let's break down why Open Auto Transport is the top choice:

It’s Cost-Effective:
Open Auto Transport is cheaper because the trailers can carry many cars at once. This lowers the cost for each car, making it a budget-friendly option.
It’s Readily Available:
There are lots of open carriers available, so you can usually book a spot without waiting too long. This is great if you’re on a tight schedule.
It’s Efficient:
Loading and unloading cars on an open carrier is a quick process. This means your car will reach its destination faster compared to other methods.
It’s Safe and Reliable:
Even though the cars are on an open truck, this method is still safe. Professionals secure the cars properly to prevent movement during the trip. Plus, companies should provide insurance to cover any potential damage.
It’s Versatile:
Open Auto Transport can handle all kinds of vehicles like cars, trucks, SUVs, and even motorcycles. This makes it a good choice no matter what type of vehicle you need to move.

Open Auto Transport is most common when shipping cars from state to state.

Open auto shipping is the best choice for moving your car from one state to another because it’s affordable, easy to book, fast, safe, reliable, and versatile. Whether you’re moving to a new state, selling a car, or buying one from afar, Open Auto Transport offers a straightforward and cost-effective way to get your car where it needs to go. With 90% of people choosing Open Transport, you can consider selecting Open for a smooth and worry-free experience.

Top Benefits of Open Auto Transport - Open

1/20/2026

At Viceroy Auto Transport, we often recommend open carrier service because it provides the best combination of value, safety, and speed for most customers.

Explaining the Benefits of Open Auto Transport

Listing the Benefits of Open Auto Transport

Whether you're moving to a new city, buying a car from a distant location, or sending a vehicle to a loved one, open transport offers several key benefits making it an excellent choice.

7 Benefits That Prove Open Transport is a Great Choice

Let's look over some of the benefits provided by choosing Open Auto Transport:

Affordable Solution:
Open transport is typically more affordable than enclosed transport. The lower cost is primarily due to the fact that open transport can haul multiple vehicles at once, spreading the operational expenses across several customers. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals who still want reliable and professional car shipping services.
Availability and Flexibility:
Because open transport is the most common method used in the auto transport industry, there are more open carriers available. This increased availability means you are more likely to find a carrier quickly, which can be particularly beneficial if you need to ship your car on short notice. Additionally, the flexibility of open carriers allows for a variety of vehicle types to be transported, from standard sedans to larger SUVs and trucks.
Efficient and Reliable:
Open transport is known for its efficiency. With the ability to carry up to 10 vehicles at a time, these carriers maximize each trip, making them a faster option for car shipping. The widespread use of open transport also means that the routes are well-established and optimized, contributing to timely deliveries. At Viceroy Auto Transport, we work with experienced carriers to ensure your vehicle arrives on schedule.
Visibility and Monitoring:
One of the unique benefits of open transport is the visibility it offers. Unlike the privacy of enclosed auto transport, where vehicles are hidden from view, open carriers allow you to see your car during loading and unloading. This transparency can provide peace of mind, as you can easily inspect your vehicle before it is transported and once it reaches its destination.
Safety and Protection:
While it may seem counterintuitive, open transport is a safe and secure method for shipping vehicles. The design of open carriers includes multiple tie-down points and secured methods to keep each car stable during transit. Although the vehicles are exposed to the elements, the risk of damage is minimal, and instances of significant weather-related harm are rare.
Professional Handling:
At Viceroy, we partner with professional and experienced drivers who are trained to handle all types of vehicles with care. From the moment your car is loaded onto the carrier to the moment it is delivered, you can trust that it is in good hands. Our commitment to quality service means that we take every precaution to ensure your vehicle's safe arrival.
Environmentally Friendly:
Open transport is also a more environmentally friendly option compared to enclosed transport. Since open carriers can transport multiple vehicles in one trip, they reduce the overall number of trips needed, leading to lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions. Choosing open transport can be a small but significant way to reduce your carbon footprint.

Open auto transport can be beneficial depending on the type of vehicle being shipped.

Choosing the right car shipping method is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free experience. Open transport offers a cost-effective, efficient, and reliable way to ship your vehicle, with the added benefits of professional handling and environmental friendliness. At Viceroy Auto Transport, we are dedicated to providing top-notch service and ensuring your car arrives safely and on time. Contact us today to learn more about our open transport services and get a free quote for your car shipping needs.

Most Affordable Way to Ship a Car - Open

1/19/2026

When budget and efficiency matter most, open auto transport stands out as the cheapest and most common method to move a vehicle across the country.

Cheapest Auto Carrier is Open Auto Transport.

You’ll receive reliable service, professional handling, and the peace of mind that your car is transported safely and all at the lowest possible rate.

Why Open Auto Transport is Affordable

This section explores the key reasons why open car shipping is more affordable than enclosed transport and provides a cost comparison to highlight the price differences.

Higher Vehicle Capacity

Open carriers can transport more vehicles per trip than enclosed carriers, reducing the cost per vehicle.

Open transport carriers typically hold 7 to 10 vehicles at a time.
Enclosed transport carriers usually accommodate only 1 to 6 vehicles per trip.

Because the cost of fuel, labor, and tolls is divided among more cars, each customer pays less when using an open carrier compared to enclosed transport.

Lower Operational Costs

Open transport trailers are more affordable to operate and maintain due to their lightweight design and lower maintenance costs.

Enclosed trailers are heavier, requiring more fuel to operate, which increases the price for the customer.
Open trailers have a simpler structure, resulting in lower repair and maintenance expenses.

Since open carriers run more efficiently, transport carriers can offer lower prices while maintaining profitability.

Cheapest Ways: Open Transport

Greater Availability = More Competitive Pricing

Open auto transport is the most widely available car shipping option, meaning there are more carriers operating on popular routes. This high availability results in:

Lower wait times for shipping
More competition among carriers, which drives prices down
Faster vehicle pickups compared to enclosed transport

Because open transport is the standard choice for most vehicle shipments, the increased supply naturally keeps pricing more affordable.

Economies of Scale Reduce Costs

Since open transport is the industry standard, companies can take advantage of economies of scale to lower pricing further. With more shipments being completed using open carriers, businesses can:

Reduce per-unit costs by optimizing routes and maximizing trailer loads
Offer volume discounts due to high demand
Improve efficiency, leading to more competitive pricing for customers

This widespread usage and efficiency make open auto transport the most budget-friendly car shipping method available.

Which one is better between Open Transport or Enclosed Carrier?

Open vs. Enclosed Auto Transport: Price Comparison

To illustrate the cost difference between open and enclosed auto transport, let's consider some average price ranges for shipping a standard sedan over a distance of 1,000 miles.

Open Auto Transport:
The average cost to ship a car using an open carrier ranges from $600 to $800. This price includes standard services like pickup, delivery, and basic insurance coverage.
Enclosed Auto Transport:
The average cost to ship the same car using an enclosed carrier ranges from $1,200 to $1,500. The higher cost reflects the premium services offered, such as enhanced protection and higher insurance coverage.

Let’s look at a specific example to see the price difference more clearly:
Shipping a Sedan from New York to Miami (1,300 miles):

Open Carrier: $700
Enclosed Carrier: $1,400

Shipping an SUV from Los Angeles to Chicago (2,000 miles):

Open Carrier: $1,000
Enclosed Carrier: $2,000

In these examples, the cost of using an enclosed carrier is approximately double that of an open carrier, highlighting the significant savings achieved by choosing open auto transport.

Final Thoughts: Open Transport is the Most Cost-Effective

For most vehicles, open auto transport is the best choice because it is:

More affordable than enclosed transport
Readily available, reducing wait times
Reliable and widely used, ensuring safe and efficient delivery

While enclosed transport is ideal for luxury, classic, or exotic cars, the added protection comes at a high price. If your goal is affordable and efficient car shipping, open auto transport remains the cheapest way to transport a vehicle across the country.

When shipping a car, choosing between open car transport and enclosed auto transport is one of the most important decisions. If cost is your primary concern, open auto transport is the cheapest way to ship a car. It is the most commonly used method, offering significant savings without compromising safety for standard vehicles.

Got Questions about Open Auto Transport? - Open

1/18/2026

Get answers to common questions asked about open-air auto transport. Here are real questions from real customers with real answers from Viceroy Auto Transport.

Frequently Asked Questions: Open Transport

How do I select an open-air car shipping company?

Comparing the quotes from different companies gives you a clear understanding of the pricing variations and the services each company offers. Alongside the cost, consider factors like the company's reputation, customer reviews, and insurance coverage.

What is the loading process like with an open auto carrier?

Once the transport carrier arrives at the pickup location, the vehicle is driven onto the open trailer and secured in place using straps or wheel chocks. The transport professionals ensure that the car is positioned securely and properly within the carrier to prevent movement during transit. The loading process is conducted with precision to minimize the risk of damage and ensure a safe journey. Once loaded, the vehicle joins others on the carrier, forming a row of securely fastened cars ready for transport.

Should I be concerned about safety on an open auto transporter?

No. While exposed on an open car carrier, the vehicles are regularly monitored to ensure their safety and secure positioning throughout the journey. The carrier navigates the planned route, adhering to road regulations and safety.

Is weather a problem with open car hauling?

No. Though exposed to weather conditions, the transport process is carefully managed to safeguard the vehicles and ensure their timely arrival at the destination.

Do I have contact with the driver?

Yes. We provide you all the contact information you need for the carrier to communicate direct. Throughout the journey, customers can stay informed about their vehicle's progress through regular updates provided by the transport dispatch department.

Will the open car carrier driver contact me?

Yes. The driver usually calls the customer 24-48 prior to delivery to coordinates a time. As the destination nears, preparations for delivery are made. Upon arrival, your vehicle is carefully unloaded, and you have the opportunity to inspect it to ensure it's in the same condition as when it was loaded. The final steps include documentation, payment, and, if opted for, door-to-door service for added convenience.

Does someone need to be at delivery?

Customers or their representatives are usually present during this inspection to verify the vehicle's condition and sign off on its safe delivery. The open auto transport service aims to ensure that the vehicle reaches its destination in the same condition it was loaded, offering a seamless and reliable process for getting cars to their owners.

What is the cheapest way to ship my car?

Open-Air Transport is the cheapest way to ship a car. This method involves loading your car onto an open trailer, exposing it to the elements during transit. It is usually the most affordable option, but your car will be susceptible to weather conditions and road debris.

Why is open car transport the cheaper way?

Open transport is the most economical and preferred choice for cheap car shipping on a car hauler due to several factors that contribute to its affordability. One of the primary reasons is the higher capacity of open carriers, allowing them to transport multiple vehicles at once. By spreading the transportation costs among several customers, the individual cost per vehicle owner is significantly reduced, making it an affordable option.

Does open car shipping provide full insurance?

Yes. Basic insurance coverage in open car shipping usually includes liability insurance, which protects the carrier and their responsibility for any damage caused to your vehicle while it's in their possession.

Is open auto transportation safe?

Yes. Open auto hauling is generally considered safe for cars, and it is one of the most common methods used for transporting vehicles. Despite these potential risks, the vast majority of cars transported via open carriers arrive at their destination without any significant issues.

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