Open Auto Transport
When it comes to transporting your car across the country, there are options available that you can choose from. One of the most popular choices is open carrier car shipping, which offers a number of benefits compared to other methods of shipping. It is also very economical among other shipping services.
With open transport, your car will be shipped on an open-trailer car carrier most commonly seen on highways and used for delivering to dealerships across the country.
Before selecting to use an open transport carrier, it is important that you are fully aware of the advantages it brings and every other thing that is associated with this method of transport.
What is an Open Car Carrier?
An open car carrier is the process of transporting vehicles with trailers that do not have enclosed side walls or a roof. They are used to pick up and load your car together with other vehicles from a location of your choice and deliver it to your desired location.
Open trailer car transport exposes your car to the elements, but it’s still the safest and most secure option if you’re on a tight budget. It is also the most common type of car shipping service used by auto transport companies.
Difference Between Enclosed and Open Carrier Car Shipping
With open-car shipping, your vehicle is transported on an open trailer and the cost is lower. However, your vehicle is exposed to the elements. It's the preferred method of shipping for many people because it's easy, quick, and secure. Enclosed car shipping on the other hand is when your vehicle is protected on all sides for extra protection.
When you are making the decision between open auto transport and enclosed one, it is important to keep many things in mind. This includes budget, shipping type, car model, and many more. According to statistics, many vehicle owners opt for open auto transport because of the price.
Advantages Of Open Carrier Car Shipping
More Affordable
One of the biggest benefits of open carrier car shipping is the cost savings. Since open carriers can transport multiple vehicles at once, the cost is typically lower compared to other methods, like enclosed carriers. The ability to fit multiple cars on the same trailer allows the shipping company to distribute the expenses, making it more affordable for the customer.
Faster Option
Open carriers are the most common type of vehicle transport method. This means there are more open carriers available across the country, making it easier to find a carrier and ship your car in a timely manner. The widespread availability also means that open carrier shipping is often more flexible with pickup and delivery times.
Minimal Paperwork and Hassle-Free Process
Compared to other methods of shipping, open transport car shipping tends to involve less paperwork and fewer logistics to coordinate. The process is straightforward—simply drop off your car at a designated pickup location, and the company will handle the rest. It’s generally less hassle compared to some more complex options.
Good for Short to Long Distances
Whether you're shipping a car across town or across the country, open vehicle transport is a great option for both short and long distances. It’s versatile enough to accommodate a variety of destinations, making it a reliable choice no matter how far your car needs to go.
Ideal for Standard Vehicles
If you’re shipping a regular vehicle such as a sedan, SUV, or truck, open carriers are a perfect choice. These carriers are designed to handle typical passenger vehicles, so they provide a safe and reliable way to transport your car. If your car doesn’t require any special protection from the elements, then this is a great solution.
Disadvantages Of Open Carrier Car Shipping
Not shielded
One of the most significant drawbacks of open carrier car shipping is that your vehicle is not well-shielded throughout the journey. This means your car will be vulnerable to weather conditions such as rain, snow, hail, extreme heat, or even dust and dirt.
While the car is usually strapped securely to the carrier, there’s little protection from the natural forces that can affect its condition.
This exposure can lead to a build-up of dirt, grime, or even minor damage, especially if the weather conditions are severe. For these primary reasons, people who own classic, exotic, and luxury models choose to use enclosed auto transport over open carrier auto transport.
Higher Risk of Theft
Though rare, there is a slightly higher risk of theft since the vehicles are visible on the open carrier. While most car shipping companies take security seriously and take precautions, the open nature of the transport still carries some level of risk.
Limited in Remote Areas
If you want to ship your car to or from a rural area, it may be harder to find an open carrier that can pick up your vehicle. This means you have to wait for longer times as many auto shipping companies do not have customers shipping to those areas. Also, the road conditions might be a turn-off and make the shipping process more difficult.
When is Open Carrier Car Shipping Recommended?
Open carrier car shipping is recommended if you want to transport a standard vehicle and keep the cost to a minimum. If you are a car dealer, it is also ideal because it can transport all your vehicles at once.
Open auto transport is a more affordable shipping option that still provides a safe manner of transporting your vehicle to your desired destination. Therefore, you do not have to worry about any inconvenience.
With many years of reliable nationwide open transport car shipping services, US Car-Go Freight has earned our reputation as one of the most trusted car transport companies in the United States. Our experienced team of shipping experts exceed the expectations of our customers and deliver outstanding service. Trust us for a seamless and reliable open transport service. Contact us today to request a free, instant car shipping quote!