FMCSA & US Dot Approved

Open Transport

Best American Auto Transport Inc provides professional, secure, and reliable Open Transport. Designed specifically for budget-conscious shippers and daily drivers, our logistics team ensures a smooth experience by focusing on the most affordable and fastest way to move a standard vehicle. With industry-standard multi-car open trailers, you can trust us to handle your vehicle with the utmost care.

Open carrier auto transport service shipping vehicles on multi-car trailer across the country

Factors that Affect Open Transport Costs

Distance

The farther your car travels, the more you’ll pay. However, longer trips often cost less per mile than shorter ones.

Route

Shipping along major highways is cheaper and faster. Rural or off-the-beaten-path routes cost more due to limited carrier access.

Season

Summer and snowbird season drive prices up. Shipping during slower months, like fall or early spring, can save you money.

Vehicle Type

Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks take up more space and use more fuel. Expect to pay more than you would for a standard sedan.

Traffic Patterns

Busy travel weeks, like Thanksgiving, can slow down delivery times. Booking during lighter traffic windows helps keep costs and delays down.

Carrier Availability

During peak season, carriers fill up fast. You may wait longer for pickup, so book early to lock in your preferred dates.

Open vs Enclosed

Open trailers are the most affordable option. Enclosed trailers offer extra protection but cost more — ideal for luxury or classic cars.

Population Density

Shipping to or from a busy city can cost more. Dense urban areas have more traffic and tighter access for large carriers.

Open Transport FAQs

What is open auto transport and how does it work? +
Open auto transport ships your vehicle on an open-air multi-car trailer, the same method used by manufacturers and dealerships. Your car is securely strapped to the carrier alongside other vehicles, making it the most affordable and widely available shipping method.
Is open car transport safe for my vehicle? +
Yes. Open transport is the industry standard and accounts for over 90% of all vehicle shipments. Your car is secured with heavy-duty straps and chains. While minor road dust is normal, carriers are fully insured for any damage during transit.
How much cheaper is open transport compared to enclosed? +
Open transport typically costs 30-50% less than enclosed shipping. For a standard sedan shipping cross-country, you could save $400-$800 by choosing open transport while still receiving fully insured, door-to-door service.
What types of vehicles can ship on an open carrier? +
Open carriers handle most standard vehicles including sedans, SUVs, trucks, minivans, and crossovers. Vehicles up to 7 feet tall and under 10,000 lbs can typically ship on standard open trailers. Oversized vehicles may require specialized flatbed carriers.
Should I wash my car before open transport? +
It's not required, but we recommend a quick wash before pickup so you and the driver can accurately document the vehicle's condition. A light rinse helps spot any existing scratches or dents on the Bill of Lading inspection.
TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Pro Tip for Open Transport

Expect a quick wash upon arrival, as cars will be exposed to normal road dust.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Choosing a five-day window for pickup and delivery can lower your shipping cost. Carriers can plan routes more easily with flexible dates, which means more options and better pricing for you.

Hub City Advantages

For your auto transport needs, choose a location near major highways. Spots close to major interstates attract more carriers, giving you more options and more competitive rates on your shipment.

Open Trailers

Open trailers cost less than enclosed trailers and work well for most standard vehicles. If your car doesn’t need extra protection from the elements, an open trailer is the smart, budget-friendly choice.

How Open Transport Works

1

Get an Instant Quote

Use our calculator to get a transparent rate with zero hidden fees.

2

Carrier Assignment

A fully vetted, licensed carrier is assigned and will pick up your vehicle typically within 1–5 business days.

3

Safe Delivery

Your car arrives at its destination safely. Inspect the vehicle, sign the Bill of Lading, and you're good to go.

Start your quote →

Lock in your price today

Talk to an auto transport expert now or get an instant quote online.

(302) 355-5544

What Our Customers Say

★★★★★

"Best American Auto Transport Inc shipped my vehicle from Virginia to California in just 5 days. The driver was professional, communication was excellent, and the price was exactly what was quoted. Highly recommend!"

— Sarah M.
Verified Customer · Google Reviews
★★★★★

"As a military family doing a PCS move, we needed reliable transport. Best American gave us a military discount and handled everything seamlessly. Our car arrived in perfect condition. Will use again for our next move."

— James T.
Verified Customer · Trustpilot
★★★★★

"I was nervous about shipping my classic Mustang but the enclosed transport option gave me peace of mind. Zero scratches, delivered on time. The no-deposit policy sealed the deal for me."

— David R.
Verified Customer · BBB
★ 4.9 out of 5 based on 1,247 verified reviews
MR
Marcus Reid
Senior Logistics Coordinator at Best American Auto Transport Inc

Marcus Reid is a Senior Logistics Coordinator at Best American Auto Transport Inc with over a decade of experience coordinating cross-country freight and specialized vehicle transport for individual, military, and corporate clients.