

What is open auto transport?
With open transport car shipping, a carrier can pick up and load your vehicle from a location of your choice and deliver it to another location. With an open trailer, your car is exposed to the elements and road and traffic grime, but it’s the safest and most secure way to ship a vehicle, particularly if you’re on a tight budget.
It’s a more affordable option because open car carriers are able to collect more cars than enclosed ones, reducing customer costs. Open carrier car shipping is an excellent choice if you want to transport a regular car for a long-distance move, ship a vehicle bought at an auction, or relocate your car. It’s also the service of choice for dealerships and car manufacturers.
The cost of open vehicle transport ranges from a couple of hundred dollars to more than one thousand, depending on the distance, weather, type of vehicle, and other factors.
Is open auto transport the cheapest way to ship a car?
Other reasons why open carrier car transport is cheaper include:
- Fuel efficiency: Because open carriers can transport more vehicles simultaneously, the fuel cost per vehicle is lower.
- Lower equipment costs: Open trailers are less expensive to purchase and maintain than enclosed trailers. However, enclosed trailers require more specialized equipment to protect vehicles from weather and road debris, which increases costs.
- Higher availability: More open car carrier transport providers are available than enclosed ones, making it easier and cheaper to find and book. The higher supply of open carriers drives down the cost due to competitive pricing.
- Lower insurance costs: Insurance for open car shipping is generally lower because the risk, while present, is spread across many vehicles. While enclosed carriers provide more protection, and the insurance premiums are higher due to the added security and potential for transporting higher-value cars.
- Quicker turnaround: Open carriers can load and unload vehicles faster, leading to quicker turnaround times. This efficiency means carriers can complete more trips in a given period, increasing their revenue potential and allowing them to offer lower prices.
- Market demand: Most vehicles shipped are via open carriers because most consumers and dealerships opt for this cheaper option, creating a high demand that encourages competitive pricing.


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The benefits of open car transport
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When we recommend open vehicle transport
Additionally, open car transport is a good choice when quick and flexible scheduling is essential. Due to the higher availability of open carriers, it’s easier to find transport options with specific timelines.
Examples of when open car shipping is best:
- Cost-effective shipping: When minimizing shipping costs is a priority.
- Standard vehicles: For everyday cars that don’t require special protection.
- Quick and flexible scheduling: When you need faster and more flexible pick-up and delivery options.


What is the difference between open and enclosed car transport?
When you book open car transport, the carrier transports your vehicle using an open trailer. Your vehicle is exposed to the elements, but the risk of damage is minimal and rarely occurs.
Open air auto transport is the preferred method of transportation for car dealerships, rental car companies, and people transporting their vehicles to and from dealerships. They choose it because it’s quick, secure, easy to arrange, and more affordable.
With enclosed car shipping, the carrier transports your vehicle in a fully enclosed, weathertight trailer that provides more protection and security. This service is typically between 40% and 60% more expensive than open car transport because there are fewer enclosed carriers and trailers that transport fewer cars.
Enclosed car shipping is the method of choice for people with high-value or classic vehicles. It’s also ideal for transporting exotic or luxury cars requiring specialized care and treatment during shipping.
With enclosed car shipping, owners have extra peace of mind when transporting expensive vehicles.

Get a free, instant quote today and see how easy and affordable auto transport can be with WeShipCars.
Why choose WeShipCars for your open car transport shipping?
Zero upfront payment
Experience worry-free car shipping with WeShipCar. We believe in transparent and convenient service and require zero upfront payment. Trust us to prioritize your convenience and peace of mind.
Price match
Experience worry-free car shipping with WeShipCar. We believe in transparent and convenient service and require zero upfront payment. Trust us to prioritize your convenience and peace of mind.
Free cancelation
Life is unpredictable, and we understand that plans can change. That's why we provide the freedom to cancel your booking at no cost, giving you the flexibility you need to adapt to any situation.
Fully vetted and insured carriers
Rest easy knowing that your vehicle's safety is our top priority. We work exclusively with fully vetted and insured carriers who maintain the highest standards of professionalism and care during transportation.
Full coverage vehicle insurance
Our comprehensive cargo insurance coverage covers your vehicle during transit, providing complete peace of mind throughout shipping.
Fully customizable services
We tailor our services to your unique requirements for a personalized and efficient shipping experience. At WeShipCar, we understand that every customer is different, and we aim to meet your needs.
Dedicated car shipping experts
Our team of dedicated car shipping experts is committed to guiding you through every step of the process, providing expert assistance and support from initial booking to delivery.
24/7 customer support
Our 24/7 customer support team is here to provide prompt assistance anytime, day or night. We are here to address your queries and concerns, ensuring a smooth and stress-free shipping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are specific instances when open transport car shipping wouldn’t be our recommendation:
- High-Value or Classic Cars: If you’re shipping a high-value, luxury, or classic car, enclosed transport is often a better option. Enclosed carriers offer protection from weather, road debris, and potential damage, ensuring your valuable vehicle remains pristine.
- Severe Weather Conditions: If the route involves regions with severe weather conditions, such as heavy snow, hail, or storms, enclosed transport can protect your vehicle from potential weather-related damage.
- Specialized or Modified Vehicles: Vehicles with modifications or those requiring special handling may benefit from enclosed transport. This method ensures that customized parts are not exposed to the elements and are transported with extra care.
- Personal Preference for Maximum Protection: Some vehicle owners simply prefer the peace of mind that comes with enclosed transport, knowing their car is entirely shielded from external factors during transit.
- Shipment of Multiple Vehicles with Different Requirements: If you are shipping multiple vehicles with varying protection needs, opting for enclosed transport for the more sensitive vehicles can be a wise choice while using open transport for standard cars.
In these cases, opting for enclosed car transport can provide the necessary protection and peace of mind, ensuring your vehicle arrives at its destination in the best possible condition.
The preference for open car transport among 90% of customers can be attributed to several key factors:
Yes, we typically include insurance coverage in door-to-door car shipping services. Full cargo insurance coverage is included in all quotes, providing peace of mind to customers throughout the shipping process.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Open car transport is typically more affordable than enclosed transport due to its higher availability and ability to transport multiple vehicles simultaneously. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for many customers.
- Widespread Availability: Open carriers are more abundant and widely available than enclosed carriers, allowing faster scheduling and shorter wait times for pick-up and delivery. The higher availability contributes to the convenience and accessibility of open transport services.
- Suitability for Standard Vehicles: Open car transport is a practical choice for everyday cars that do not require special protection. Most standard vehicles can withstand exposure to the elements during transit without significant risk of damage, making open transport a suitable and efficient option.
- Efficiency and Reliability: Loading and unloading vehicles onto open carriers is generally quicker and more straightforward than enclosed transport. This efficiency ensures faster shipping times and smoother logistics for customers and transport companies.
Overall, the affordability, availability, and suitability of open car transport for standard vehicles make it the preferred choice for most customers. While enclosed transport offers added protection, open transport meets the needs of most customers seeking efficient and economical vehicle shipping solutions.
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