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Open Carrier Car Shipping
Nationwide Door-To-Door Open Car Transport Services
The Most Common Method of Vehicle Shipping
Open car transport is the most popular and economical of our vehicle shipping services. With open carrier car shipping, your vehicle will be shipped door-to-door on an open trailer car carrier - most commonly seen on highways and delivering to dealerships across the country.
The Cost-Effective Way to Ship a Car Anywhere Safely
Open carrier car transport is the standard for car shipping and is the least expensive option for nationwide car shipping.
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1Origin & Destination
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The Most Common Method of Vehicle Shipping
Open car transport is the most popular and economical of our vehicle shipping services. With open carrier car shipping, your vehicle will be shipped door-to-door on an open trailer car carrier - most commonly seen on highways and delivering to dealerships across the country.
The Cost-Effective Way to Ship a Car Anywhere Safely
Open carrier car transport is the standard for car shipping and is the least expensive option for nationwide car shipping.
Open Transport Car Shipping Services
When it comes to transporting your vehicle across the country, there are a variety of options available. One popular choice is open transport car shipping, which offers a number of benefits compared to other methods of shipping. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what open transport car shipping is, the benefits it offers, and how it differs from other shipping options.
Table of Contents
What Is Open Transport Car Shipping?
Open transport car shipping is the most popular and cost-effective way to transport a car from one location to another. This method features an open trailer that transports several vehicles at once, which can be a great option for regular car owners, dealerships, or manufacturers. This type of car shipping can provide numerous benefits and risks.
Open transport car shipping is ideal if you want to transport cars over long distances ranging from a few hundred miles to thousands of miles across the country. This is more affordable than other transport options because your car is transported along with several other vehicles in an open trailer, which reduces the cost. In addition to this, it is a more flexible option that offers a wider range of pick-up and delivery times that will suit your schedule and needs.
Open transport car shipping remains the preferred option for many individuals, dealers, and manufacturers. It is a great choice for regular car owners who want to transport their cars for long distance moves, move their cars to a new location, or ship a vehicle bought at auction. It is also suitable for dealerships or car manufacturers who need to transport multiple vehicles at once.
The cost of open transport car shipping can range anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands, depending on the distance, weather, and other factors. Car shipping brokers or companies can provide quotes and help facilitate the transport process. These companies provide trained staff who handle the process and help ensure the safe delivery of your vehicle.
Benefits of Open Transport Car Shipping
When it comes to shipping a vehicle, you have two main options: open transport car shipping and enclosed transport car shipping. While enclosed transport offers more protection for your vehicle, open transport remains the most popular choice for a variety of reasons.
1. Affordability
One of the primary benefits of open transport car shipping is its affordability. Because open transport carriers can haul more cars at a time than enclosed carriers, the cost per vehicle is significantly lower. This makes open transport a more attractive option for customers who need to ship their cars on a budget.
For example, let's say you are moving across the country and must use cross country car shipping. Enclosed car shipping may cost you $1,000 or more, while open transport may only cost $500-$800. This can save you a considerable amount of money, particularly if you already face other expenses associated with your move.
2. Availability
Another advantage of open transport is its availability. Because open transport carriers are more common than enclosed carriers, you're more likely to find an open carrier available when needed. This can be especially beneficial if you need to ship your car on short notice or during a busy time of the year, such as a holiday season or peak moving season.
For example, if you're a snowbird who spends winters in Arizona and summers in Minnesota, you may need to transport your car twice a year. Because thousands of other snowbirds have the same schedule, you can imagine how difficult it would be to secure an enclosed carrier during this peak season. But because open transport is so readily available, you can ensure your car arrives on time and without incident.
3. Flexibility
Open transport car shipping also offers greater flexibility than enclosed transport. For example, if you're shipping a large vehicle that won't fit in an enclosed trailer, open transport may be your only option. Additionally, open transport carriers can handle multiple vehicles of different makes and models, allowing you to transport all of your cars at once.
For example, let's say you're a car collector with a dozen classic vehicles spread across the country. It would be impractical and cost-prohibitive to ship each car separately. But with open transport, you can load all of your cars onto a single trailer and transport them all at once, saving time and money.
4. Improved Visibility
Finally, open transport car shipping offers improved visibility, which can be helpful for both you and the transport carrier. Because open transport trailers are open to the elements, it's easier for carriers to inspect vehicles throughout the shipping process. And because your car is visible to everyone passing by, it's less likely to go missing or be subject to theft.
For example, if you're shipping a luxury car, you may be concerned about its safety and security during transport. But with open transport, you can track your car online and rest assured that it's being looked after by a reputable carrier.
Difference Between Open and Enclosed Transport Car Shipping
Transporting a car from one point to another can be a daunting task, especially if you have little or no knowledge of the industry. Before you start planning your car shipment, it is essential to understand the difference between open and enclosed car shipment.
Open Transport Car Shipping
Open transport car shipping is a car shipping method where vehicles are transported on an open trailer exposed to the elements, including wind, rain, dust, and debris. This is the most commonly used method of shipping cars, and it is also the most cost-effective. Open transport car shipping is ideal for people who want to transport their vehicles for short distances, such as across a state.
Open transport car shipping is often used by car dealerships, rental car companies, and individuals transporting their cars to and from dealerships. Since open transport car shipping is the most convenient and cheapest way of transporting cars, it allows dealerships to transport their vehicles to various locations without incurring significant costs.
Open transport car shipping is also ideal for people shipping ordinary vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, and minivans since these vehicles are commonly used and are not too expensive. Additionally, since the trailers used for open transport car shipping can carry multiple cars, the shipping costs per vehicle are much lower than other car shipping methods.
Enclosed Transport Car Shipping
Enclosed transport car shipping is a car shipping method where vehicles are transported in a closed trailer. The closed trailer protects the vehicles from the elements, including wind, rain, dust, and debris. This is the safest way of transporting your car, and it is ideal for people who have expensive or classic cars.
Enclosed transport car shipping is often used by car enthusiasts, collectors, and dealerships transporting expensive or rare vehicles. Since these vehicles are expensive, they require specialized care during transportation. Enclosed transport car shipping offers the best possible protection for these vehicles.
Enclosed transport car shipping is also ideal for people transporting luxury or exotic vehicles such as Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Bugattis. Since these cars are very expensive, they require specialized care and treatment during shipping. Enclosed transport car shipping is perfect for people who want complete peace of mind when transporting their expensive vehicles.
Conclusion
Choosing the right car shipping method depends on several factors, including the distance of the journey, the type of vehicle being shipped, and the level of protection required during transportation. If you're shipping an ordinary vehicle or don't have a large budget, open transport car shipping is the most cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you're shipping an expensive or classic car, enclosed transport car shipping is the safest option. Whatever option you choose, make sure that your car shipping company is professional, licensed, and insured to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
Contact RoadRunner to Learn More or Get Started
With over 30 years of reliable nationwide vehicle shipping services, RoadRunner Auto Transport has earned our reputation as one of the most trusted car transport companies in the US. Our experienced team of shipping experts strives to exceed the expectations of our customers and deliver outstanding service at every part of the vehicle delivery process.
From complete vehicle coverage to 24/7 online shipment tracking, we give you professional auto shipping services that you can depend on.
Contact us today to learn more and get started with your car transport.
Common Open Transport Car Shipping Questions
What does open transport mean?
Open transport refers to a type of transportation service in which the goods or materials being transported are exposed to the elements and not enclosed in a container. Examples of open transport include flatbed trucks, open trailers, and roll-on/roll-off ships. This type of transport is commonly used for items that are large, bulky, or too heavy for an enclosed trailer or container. Open car shipping is generally less expensive than enclosed transport, but it also leaves the goods more susceptible to damage from weather and road debris.
Who is the most reliable car transport company?
If you're looking for the most reliable car transport company in the industry, trust RoadRunner Auto Transport for all your vehicle shipping needs.
What is the difference between open and closed transport?
Open transport refers to a shipping method where a vehicle is transported on an open trailer exposed to weather elements, while closed transport refers to transporting a vehicle in an enclosed trailer that is not exposed to the weather. Closed transport is generally safer and more secure than open transport, but it may also come at a higher cost. Open transport is more economical and more commonly used for standard vehicles that do not require extra protection. However, high-value or classic cars may require closed transport to ensure their safety and avoid damage during transit.
Over 30 Years of Reliable Open Carrier Car Shipping
A few reasons why open car transport is our most popular service:
Network of open car transport professionals
Over 10,500 certified open carrier car shipping experts in our advanced network of nationwide transporters.
Complete nationwide coverage
Direct service to and from anywhere in the country - our transporters will pick up and deliver at your home or business.
Frequent carrier availability
Open carrier transporters are the most common carrier on the road and provide the most flexible options for pickup and delivery.
Open Carrier Car Shipping Coverage Map
Select a state below for more information about shipping a car to or from that location.
RoadRunner Auto Transport Reviews
“I'm very happy with the service I received from RoadRunner. Delivery was on time and the customer service reps were great with keeping me informed of where my vehicle was at all times.”
Henry DNew Orleans, LA
“Unbelievable speedy pick-up and delivery from Florida to my driveway in Kansas that involved a non-running 1958 Edsel with no operating brakes...and they still got the job done!”
Bruce YKansas City, KS
“My experience with RoadRunner Auto Transport was easy and fast. My car was safely transported over 3,000 miles from New Jersey to California in 4 days! I highly recommend there service”
Daniel AWhittier, CA
"5 star service! I would recommend RoadRunner to anyone looking for professional shipping service at a fair price."
Ian C.
Jacksonville, FL
"I was able to get a quote and book within a few minutes. Simple and convenient experience - thank you RoadRunner!"
John T.
Houston, TX
"The RoadRunner agent we spoke with answered all of our questions and kept us in the loop throughout the shipment."
Christopher G.
Cincinnati, OH
"We needed 2 cars shipped across the country last minute and RoadRunner really came through big time for us!"
Amanda M.
Los Angeles, CA
Average Open Carrier Car Shipping Price Estimations Based On Mileage
This table shows average price estimations for open car transport based on distance. The prices per mile decrease as the distance increases, which is a common pricing structure in the car shipping industry.
Distance
Average Price Per Mile
Sample Distance
Sample Price
0-500 miles
$0.80
250 miles
$200
500-1,000 miles
$0.73
700 miles
$511
1,000-1,500 miles
$0.70
1,000 miles
$700
1,500-2,000 miles
$0.48
1,750 miles
$840
2,000-2,500 miles
$0.37
2,400 miles
$888
2,500-3,000 miles
$0.35
2,700 miles
$945
3,000-3,500 miles
$0.33
3,200 miles
$1,122
The following price per mile averages listed above reflect current market conditions as of May 2025
These rates are estimated and are subject to change due to seasonality, cost of fuel, exact locations, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the vehicle transportation process.
What is the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport is the most common car shipping method. There are two types of open-air transporters. Most shipments are made with 8-10 car carriers. Smaller carriers which hold 2-3 cars are used for shorter more local moves. There is broader network of carrier availability for open-air carriers since they are used more often. We suggest choosing enclosed shipping methods when shipping classic, luxury or exotic vehicles. Enclosed transporters guarantee maximum protection from exposure to any open-air elements on the road. We suggest booking your enclosed transport in advance since there is limited carrier availability. Read more about the difference between open and enclosed transport.
What is the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport is the most common car shipping method. There are two types of open-air transporters. The Majority of shipments are be made with 8-10 car carriers. Smaller carriers which hold 2-3 cars are used for shorter, local car moving. There is a broader network of carrier availability for open-air carriers since they are used more often. We suggest choosing enclosed car shipping methods when shipping classic, luxury or exotic vehicles. Enclosed vehicle transportation guarantees maximum protection from exposure to any open-air elements on the road. We suggest booking your enclosed transport in advance since carrier availability is limited. Read more about the difference between open and enclosed transport
Can I place an order if I don’t know the exact address?
Yes, the city and zip code will suffice until your exact pickup or delivery location is known.
How much gas should I have in my car during transport?
You should have about a quarter of a tank of gas in your car at the time of shipment. This leaves enough for the car to be loaded and unloaded but doesn't add much additional weight.
How much does it cost to ship a car?
When determining your car shipping cost, there are a few factors that we take into account in order to provide you with an accurate price quote. The mileage between the origin and destination is the biggest factor that contributes to your total rate. In addition to the distance of your relocation, another factor is the type and condition of the vehicle being shipped. The final factor is the date that your vehicle will be ready for transport. There are also additional options, such as enclosed carrier and top-load service that can be added to your shipment at the time of booking for a higher level of service. Read more about how much it costs to ship a car.
Can I pay the full transport cost with my credit card?
Yes, you can pay the full transport cost via credit card. If you want to pay in full online, you can do so at the time of booking either online or by phone with a shipping agent. With this option, you can make a convenient, one-time payment with a credit or debit card. You also have the option of paying a deposit with your credit card and then paying the rest of your remining balance with cash upon delivery.
What is top load service?
Top load service is when your car is placed on the higher deck or level of an open auto transport trailer. This is considered to be preferable to the bottom load because the cars on the lower deck are at risk of possibly having fluid from the cars above leak on them.
Where will my car be picked up and delivered?
The driver will get the car transporter as close to your door as he can legally and safely get. In most cases, the driver will be able to pickup and deliver directly to your door. Some cities may have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into residential areas. Auto transport trucks are large and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to the pickup or delivery location is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet at a location nearby with a large parking lot, such as a grocery store.
View all frequently asked questions
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