Open Car Transport: How It Works and Who It Suits
Open transport is the standard way vehicles move across the United States. Your car rides on a multi-level carrier alongside several others, exposed to the weather in the same way it would be if you drove it yourself.
CHECK YOUR FREE SHIPPING ESTIMATEWhat the service includes
The driver inspects and photographs the vehicle at pickup, loads it with straps or wheel nets, and repeats the inspection at delivery so both parties sign the same condition report.
- Multi-car carriers, typically 7 to 10 vehicles per load.
- Door-to-door pickup and delivery as close as the truck can legally and safely reach.
- Condition report at pickup and delivery.
- The widest carrier availability of any transport type, so shorter waits on most lanes.
Who chooses open transport
Relocating families, out-of-state car buyers, students, and anyone moving a daily driver. If you would be comfortable driving the vehicle the same distance on the highway, open transport is usually the sensible choice.
What to expect on the road
Vehicles are exposed to rain, sun and road dust, the same conditions as normal driving. Cars are not driven between pickup and delivery beyond loading, so mileage barely changes. Plan to have the vehicle empty of personal belongings apart from what your coordinator confirms is allowed.
Questions people ask
Is open transport safe for a new car?+
Yes, it is the method most dealerships and manufacturers use to move new inventory. Vehicles are exposed to weather but secured for transit.
How much cheaper is open than enclosed?+
Open transport is generally the lower-cost option because a carrier moves more vehicles per trip. The exact difference depends on your route and vehicle — run the estimate to compare.
Can I ship a non-running car on an open carrier?+
Yes, as long as we assign a winch-equipped carrier. Tell us at estimate time so it is priced correctly.
Keep reading
Check your estimated car shipping price — free
Enter your route, vehicle and pickup date to see an estimated price right away.
GET A FREE AUTO TRANSPORT QUOTE