Open Car Transport FAQs

Your vehicle is shipped on an open-air trailer, usually with other cars, and secured at the wheels. It is the most common way cars are moved across the U.S.

Yes, for most vehicles. Licensed carriers ship thousands of cars this way every day. The main tradeoff is exposure to weather and road debris, which is why high-value cars often ship enclosed.

Open carriers are the most common car-hauling trucks on the road, and most standard vehicles are shipped this way.

Published studies put a standard car at about $365–$945 for 500 miles and $875–$4,725 for 2,500 miles. Short trips cost more per mile.

Yes. Published studies put enclosed transport 30–60% above open, because enclosed trailers carry fewer cars and there are fewer of them.

It depends on the company. Some charge a deposit when a carrier is assigned, others at booking, and the rest at delivery. Get the deposit amount and refund terms in writing first.

Transit usually takes 1–2 days for short trips and 6–12 days coast to coast, plus the pickup window before the car is loaded.

Most shipments use a pickup window of a few days. A guaranteed or expedited pickup date is usually available for an extra fee.

Carriers must carry liability insurance, and most carry cargo coverage for the vehicles they haul. Ask for the certificate of insurance and check the limit and deductible.

Rain and sun are rarely a problem for a road-ready car, but small chips from road debris can happen. Photograph the car at pickup so you can compare its condition at delivery.

Note the damage on the Bill of Lading before signing at delivery, take photos with the driver present and contact the company right away to start a claim.

Consider enclosed transport for exotic, classic, luxury or custom cars, and for vehicles with very low ground clearance.

Many carriers don't allow them, and cargo coverage usually doesn't include personal items. Remove valuables before pickup.

Wash it, photograph every side, remove personal items and toll tags, keep about a quarter tank of fuel and fold in mirrors or remove loose parts.