Open Auto Transport – How It Works & Much It Costs

Open auto transport is a safe option and is one of the most affordable and feasible ways to transport vehicles from one state to another. As the name suggests, the carrier has no side walls or roofs. This method is safe as the cars are secured using chains.

While open auto transport offers affordability and is a popular choice, enclosed auto transport is also available for those seeking additional protection for their vehicles against the elements and weather conditions. Let’s explore more about open auto transport, how it works, and what factors influence the cost.

Since open auto transport is a standard shipping method, almost all shipping carriers operate this method. It is the cheapest of all available options and safe at the same time.

As it is a more common method, the whole process doesn’t take lots of time. You will be instantly assigned the carrier, after which your car will be picked up from wherever you want and delivered to the destination. It takes 15 to 20 days to ship the car.

In open car transport, a carrier truck can ship eight to ten cars simultaneously. This allows the car transport service to deliver multiple cars at once, which not only cuts down the price but also delivers cars in a very short time. The fuel cost also gets divided among the car owners making open car shipping the most affordable transport option.

Open car transport can be done by both the door-to-door method and the terminal-to-terminal. Door-to-door service is the most convenient, especially for those who have a busy schedule. You have to provide the shipping services with the address to pick up and drop off your car. The car will reach its destination just as it was picked up safely.

You also have an option to drop off your car at the terminal closest and then pick up the car from the terminal closest to the delivery location after it is shipped.

Open auto transport is a straightforward, efficient, and popular method for vehicle shipping, balancing cost-effectiveness with safety. Here, in TruckSpot Logistics, we specialize in connecting clients with reliable auto transport brokers. Whether you’re looking to ship cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, trucks, golf carts, RVs, trailers, or heavy equipment, TruckSpot Logistics offers a platform where you can easily request quotes and find the best transport options to meet your needs.

Open vehicle transport uses different trailers depending upon the vehicle that is needed to transport. The only downside of open trailers is that your car will remain exposed to outside elements like rain, sunlight, dust, etc. open trailers are categorized into different types depending upon the types of vehicles they can carry. The type of open trailer used directly affects your open car transport rates, so it’s important to understand your options when getting vehicle shipping quotes.

Loading vehicles onto this type of trailer is the easiest of all as it doesn’t have a cage. It comes with different capacities. Depending on the capacity, a flatbed trailer can easily carry a truck. They are completely safe for both short and long-distance transport.

Wedge trailers are common for transporting small-sized vehicles. The cars are typically secured using chains and locking mechanisms. Such trailers can hold up to four cars at once.

As the name suggests, these trailers are used for a big number of vehicles, respectively, having bigger sizes and requiring more powerful trucks to tow them. The maximum load capacity for these trailers can be up to 12-13 vehicles. 

The cost of vehicle shipping on this trailer type is the lowest, but usually, such trailers drive only on the most popular routes. For example from Florida to the northern states, or from New York to Texas and California. 

So if you are moving from one populated state to another this trailer might be the best for you.

The variety of trailers used in open vehicle transport ensures flexibility and customization to meet the diverse needs of shipments. From open flatbed trailers for easy loading to wedge and multi-vehicle shipping trailers for efficient transport of multiple cars, the options are tailored to optimize cost and safety.

Advisors at TruckSpot Logistics researched various open auto transport options to provide an average estimate on open car transport rates. The average cost turned out to be $1,385. However, there are certain factors that play a role in determining the final cost of open auto transport.

The role of fuel in transporting the car is the most significant one. The type of fuel used by carriers affects the rates of transport. The prices of fuel also affect the rates at the same time.

Cars with special modifications need special care, which automatically increases the rate of shipping. The rates generally depend upon the weight and size of your car. Since smaller cars will take less space, they will have lower shipping costs.

Just like other industries, car transport services also have their highs and lows. Typically, roads have more traffic in the winter, making road conditions dangerous for drivers. This will increase the shipping cost and may take more time to deliver your vehicle to its destination.

Open car transport rates are influenced by a myriad of factors, from the type of fuel to the size of the vehicle, and even the season in which you choose to transport. Understanding these variables can help you navigate the process and manage costs effectively.

At TruckSpot Logistics, we pride ourselves on transparency and strive to provide the most competitive quotes. By submitting a request through our platform, you’ll receive tailored quotes that reflect the best rates for your specific vehicle transport needs — be it cars, motorcycles, ATVs, or even oversized loads like boats and RVs. Trust us to facilitate a smooth and cost-effective transport experience for your valued vehicle.

A car is your most important asset. Therefore, it is necessary to check the company’s reputation before shipping your car with them. Company insurance, reviews, experience, and license are some of the things you should focus on. Let us see them in more detail.

This is the most important factor to consider. Make sure you pick a company that is bonded and insured. You will remain covered if your car gets into an unfortunate incident while shipping your car. Read more about the company’s policy to ensure you will remain covered in most cases.

The Internet comes in handy when you have to check the reviews and ratings of a company. Go through the ratings and reviews section of each website to come to a conclusion. If someone in your family has ever shipped a car from one state to another, ask them about their experience. This will be helpful to you in making the right decision.

In order to ensure the company provides the best open car shipping service, check their experience. Companies that have experience in delivering cars to far areas will definitely be able to take your vehicle safely.

The auto transport company should have a license from the Department of Transportation. Instead of believing what the company says, simply ask for their DOT number and check for authenticity yourself.

When comparing open auto transport quotes, it’s essential to look beyond the numbers and consider the quality of service, the company’s track record, and the comprehensiveness of their insurance coverage. Diligent research and careful comparison are the keys to finding a trustworthy transport partner.

For a stress-free, seamless car transport experience, look no further than SGT Auto Transport, a 5-star rated company with a proven track record of exceeding expectations. With a network of over 25,000 vetted carriers, they can offer competitive rates and flexible options to match your specific needs and budget.

Whether you’re shipping a classic car requiring enclosed transport or a standard sedan needing open-air transport, SGT has you covered.

When shipping your vehicle via open auto transport, two shipping documents are of paramount importance: the insurance policy and the Bill of Lading (BOL). These documents are not just procedural formalities; they are the pillars of security and assurance for your vehicle’s journey.

Selecting a company that offers comprehensive insurance is crucial. This coverage is your financial safeguard should any damage occur to your vehicle during transit. At TruckSpot Logistics, we connect you with brokers who only work with carriers that carry robust insurance policies. We believe in the adage ‘better safe than sorry,’ and as such, we advocate for you to thoroughly review the extent of the insurance coverage. This due diligence ensures that your vehicle is protected under all foreseeable circumstances while it’s being shipped.

The BOL is an essential legal document that records the condition of your vehicle at pickup and delivery, the terms of transport, and the specific obligations of all parties involved. Think of the BOL as a narrative of your vehicle’s transport journey; it should chronicle every relevant detail. This document serves multiple purposes: it’s a receipt, a contract, and a critical piece of evidence that can be used in the event of a dispute. The transparency and accuracy of the Bill of Lading are aspects we at TruckSpot Logistics take seriously. We ensure that all customers who use our platform to request quotes are informed about the importance of the BOL and are advised to inspect it thoroughly before signing.

Together, insurance and the BOL offer a comprehensive safety net for your vehicle. They ensure that from the moment your vehicle is picked up to the moment it’s delivered, your interests are protected. In the unlikely event of an incident, these documents are your primary defense and recourse for claims and resolutions. =

In conclusion, open auto transport presents a practical, cost-effective solution for shipping a wide range of vehicles. From understanding how this service works to evaluating open car transport rates and the significance of insurance and the Bill of Lading, it’s clear that making an informed choice is key to a successful shipping experience. At TruckSpot Logistics, our commitment is to ensure that this process is as seamless and transparent as possible. Whether you’re shipping a personal car, a motorcycle, or larger equipment, our platform offers you access to reliable quotes from top-tier auto transport brokers. By choosing TruckSpot Logistics, you’re not just choosing a service; you’re opting for peace of mind, affordability, and a trusted partner in your vehicle’s journey. Remember, the right preparation and knowledge can turn the complex task of vehicle shipping into a straightforward and worry-free experience.