Open Auto Transport
Affordable nationwide car shipping for everyday vehicles, dealer purchases, relocations, and multi-vehicle moves.
CONFIDENCE IN EVERY MILE
Professional Open Auto Transport Planning
Open auto transport is the most widely used method for shipping cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans across the United States. Vehicles are secured on an open multi-car carrier, allowing several shipments to share the same route and helping keep transportation costs competitive.
Pricing and scheduling are based on mileage, route demand, vehicle size, operating condition, pickup access, delivery access, fuel costs, and the requested shipping window. Pickup and delivery dates remain estimates because traffic, weather, inspections, and prior stops can affect carrier timing.
What We Commonly Coordinate
Daily drivers, pickup trucks, SUVs, vans, dealer inventory, private-party purchases, corporate vehicles, student vehicles, military relocations, and seasonal moves.
Information Needed for an Accurate Quote
Send the pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle year, make and model, preferred pickup window, and whether the vehicle runs, rolls, steers and brakes. Mention modifications, oversized tires, a lift kit, low ground clearance or access restrictions. Photos and measurements help us review modified or unusually large vehicles.
These details help us match carrier space and loading equipment to your vehicle and quote the actual route. Review the written price, payment terms, pickup window and any special loading charges before booking.
How the Transport Process Works
- Submit the shipment specifications and route.
- We review equipment, access, and scheduling requirements.
- A qualified carrier and suitable trailer are coordinated.
- Pickup, transit communication, and delivery are managed.
What Determines Open Car Shipping Cost?
Open auto transport pricing is influenced by the total mileage, pickup and delivery markets, vehicle size, operating condition, seasonal demand, fuel costs, and scheduling flexibility. Larger pickups and SUVs occupy more carrier space than compact vehicles and may cost more to ship.
Remote locations can also affect pricing because fewer carriers travel those routes. When practical, flexible dates or an accessible meeting location near a major highway may improve carrier availability.
How to Prepare a Vehicle for Open Transport
- Remove valuables and unsecured personal property.
- Photograph the vehicle from every side before pickup.
- Check for leaks and disclose mechanical problems.
- Follow the assigned carrier’s fuel or electric-vehicle charge instructions.
- Disable alarms and remove toll tags.
- Provide working keys for loading and delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open shipping exposes the vehicle to weather and road debris during transit. Document its condition at pickup and delivery, and review the assigned carrier’s cargo coverage, limits and exclusions before dispatch. Coverage is not a promise that every possible loss is insured.
Open shipping is generally the most economical choice. Enclosed transport adds protection from weather and road debris and is often selected for exotic, classic, collector, custom, and high-value vehicles.
Often, yes. Tell us whether the vehicle rolls, steers, and brakes so the correct loading equipment can be arranged.
Service is coordinated as close to the requested addresses as the carrier can safely and legally access. A nearby meeting point may be required for narrow streets, low branches, gates, or restricted communities.
When Is Open Auto Transport the Right Choice?
Open transport is generally the practical, widely available option for standard passenger vehicles when enclosed protection is not necessary. Vehicle size, condition, pickup and delivery access, route, and timing still affect the final transport plan.
For exotic, luxury, classic, collector or restored vehicles, compare our enclosed auto transport service. For a detailed booking and preparation checklist, read our open auto transport guide.
Request an Open Auto Transport Quote
Tell us what is moving, where it is located, where it needs to go, and when it will be ready. Include specifications and photos when available.
Get Your Personalized Transport Quote
Tell us where and what you’re shipping. No automated price will be displayed.
Popular Auto Transport Service Areas
Explore vehicle shipping information for frequently requested states, or browse our complete nationwide service area directory.