Open Car Transport
Open transport is how most vehicles in America move. Your car rides on a two-level open trailer alongside up to nine others, the same way brand-new vehicles travel from the factory to the dealership. It is the most affordable option, the most widely available, and the one we recommend for daily drivers, SUVs, trucks and most used vehicles.
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How Open Car Transport Works
An open carrier is a standard tractor-trailer with hydraulic ramps and two decks. The driver loads your vehicle, secures it at the wheels with straps or chains, and it rides exposed to the air for the length of the trip. Because roughly 90 percent of the carriers on the road are open, there are more trucks on every lane, which means faster pickup windows and lower prices than enclosed transport.
Your vehicle is inspected with the driver at pickup and again at delivery. Any existing damage is noted on the bill of lading before loading, so there is a clear record on both ends. The carrier's cargo insurance covers the vehicle for the entire trip.
Who Open Transport Is Right For
- Daily drivers, commuter cars and family SUVs
- Pickup trucks and work vehicles
- Used vehicles bought out of state
- Snowbird moves to Florida, Arizona and Texas
- Student cars going to or from campus
- Dealer and auction transport
- Anyone who wants the lowest price on a long-distance move
What to Expect on the Road
An open carrier exposes your vehicle to the same weather and road conditions it would see if you drove it yourself. Dust, rain and a little road grime at delivery are normal; a wash on arrival is usually all it needs. If you are shipping a new car, a collector car or anything with a flawless finish, consider enclosed transport instead. If you are shipping a car you drive every day, open transport is the smart money.
Carriers typically make several stops on a route, so transit time depends on the lane. Cross-country moves from Wisconsin take 7 to 10 days after pickup; regional moves take 1 to 4. You get a firm window at dispatch and updates through delivery.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport
| Feature | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lowest | About 30–50% more |
| Availability | Most carriers on the road | Fewer trucks; book earlier |
| Weather exposure | Yes | No |
| Best for | Daily drivers, trucks, SUVs | Luxury, exotic, classic, new |
| Insurance | Carrier cargo coverage | Carrier cargo coverage, usually higher limits |
Common Questions
Is open car transport safe?
Yes. It is how nearly every new car reaches the dealership. Vehicles are secured at the wheels, inspected at both ends and covered by the carrier's cargo insurance.
Will my car get dirty?
It can pick up road dust or rain the same as it would being driven. A wash on arrival is usually all it needs.
How much cheaper is open transport than enclosed?
Typically 30 to 50 percent less on the same route. Use the instant quote tool to see both prices for your vehicle.
Can I put items in the car?
Carriers allow up to about 100 pounds of personal items in the trunk or below the window line, at your own risk. Nothing valuable, and no hazardous materials.
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