Open Auto Transport
Open transport is the standard way to ship a car in the U.S. Your vehicle rides on a multi-car carrier, the same kind dealers use, and it’s the lower-priced option on almost every route.
- The most carriers on the road, so more pickup options
- Cars, trucks, SUVs and vans
- Door-to-door pickup and delivery
Why Go Open
Read the full guide
How Open Transport Works
An open car carrier is the two-level trailer you’ve seen on the highway, usually loaded with several vehicles. Each one is driven or winched on, then strapped down by its wheels or frame. The carrier makes stops along its route to load and unload, which is a big reason open transport costs less: the trip is shared.
We match you with a vetted, licensed carrier that’s running your route. At pickup, you and the driver inspect the car together and note any existing scratches or dents on the bill of lading. At delivery, you inspect it again and sign.
Open vs. Enclosed
- Price. Open is lower. Enclosed costs more because the trailers carry fewer cars and there are fewer of them.
- Protection. Open leaves the car exposed to weather and road dust, like driving it. Enclosed keeps it covered.
- Scheduling. There are many more open carriers, so it’s usually easier to find one for your dates.
- Good fit. Open suits daily drivers, family cars, trucks and SUVs. Enclosed suits exotics, classics, show cars and anything with fresh paint.
Trucks and SUVs
Pickups and full-size SUVs are some of the most common vehicles on open carriers. They take more room and weigh more than a sedan, so they usually cost a little more to ship. Lifted trucks, dually rear wheels, roof racks and oversized tires can affect where the vehicle fits on the trailer, so mention any of those when you ask for a quote and the price will be right the first time.
Getting Your Car Ready
- Wash it before pickup so you can see its condition clearly at inspection.
- Take photos from every side, with the date.
- Leave about a quarter tank of fuel.
- Remove personal items, toll tags and loose accessories.
- Fold in mirrors and lower or remove antennas if you can.
More on the full process: how auto transport works.
Open Transport Questions
Is open auto transport safe?
Yes. It’s the same way dealerships move cars every day. Your car is strapped down on a multi-car carrier. The trade-off is exposure: rain, sun and road dust reach the car, and very occasionally a small stone chip. For an everyday car, that’s rarely an issue.
How much cheaper is open than enclosed?
Open is almost always the lower price, because an open carrier holds more cars and there are many more of them on the road. The exact difference depends on your route and timing, so ask for both in your quote.
Can I ship a pickup truck or a big SUV on an open carrier?
Yes. Full-size trucks and SUVs ship on open carriers every day. Tell us about lift kits, oversized tires, racks or a camper shell, since height and weight change which spot on the carrier fits and the price.
Can I leave things in the car?
Plan to take personal items out. Carriers aren’t licensed to haul household goods, and their insurance generally doesn’t cover belongings inside the vehicle. Loose items can also shift in transit.
How do I get a price for open transport?
Get a free quote or call (424) 453-1800. Open is the default on our form.
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Ship It on an Open Carrier
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