The Complete Guide to Open Auto Transport: Safe, Reliable, and Budget-Friendly Shipping

Barry H

May 17, 2026

A car carrier truck transports vehicles on a highway through mountainous terrain.

When it comes to moving a vehicle across the state or across the country, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right shipping method. If you’ve spent any time researching auto transport, you’ve likely come across two main options: Open Auto Transport and Enclosed Auto Transport.

While enclosed shipping has its place for exotic or high-end luxury vehicles, open auto transport is by far the most popular choice for everyday drivers, dealerships, and relocations.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what open auto transport is, why it’s the industry standard, and how Allstates Auto Shipping (AAS) ensures your vehicle gets to its destination safely and affordably.

What is Open Auto Transport?

Open auto transport is a method of vehicle shipping where your car is transported on an open trailer, typically alongside several other vehicles. If you’ve ever driven on a major highway, you’ve definitely seen these trailers—they are usually two-tiered car haulers capable of carrying anywhere from 7 to 10 vehicles at a time.

Because the trailer has no sides or roof, the vehicles are exposed to the elements (such as weather and road debris) just as they would be if you were driving them yourself.

Why Choose Open Auto Transport?

There is a reason why over 90% of all vehicles in the United States are shipped via open carriers. Here are the top benefits:

1. Highly Cost-Effective

Because open carriers can transport multiple vehicles simultaneously, the operational costs (fuel, tolls, driver wages) are split among several customers. This makes open auto transport the most budget-friendly way to move a vehicle. If you are looking to save money on your move, this is the definitive choice.

2. Readily Available and Faster Scheduling

Because open trailers are the industry standard, there are significantly more open carriers on the road than enclosed ones. This means more route options, greater flexibility, and faster pickup and delivery times. If you need your car shipped on a specific timeline, an open carrier will almost always offer the quickest turnaround.

3. Highly Regulated and Safe

A common misconception is that “open” means “unprotected.” In reality, vehicles are meticulously secured to the trailer structure using specialized wheel straps or chassis chains. Furthermore, auto transport drivers are highly trained professionals who must adhere to strict Department of Transportation (DOT) safety regulations.

Addressing the Myths: Is Open Transport Safe for Your Car?

It’s completely natural to feel a bit anxious about handing over your keys and leaving your car exposed on an open trailer. Let’s clear up a few common concerns:

“Will my car get damaged by weather?” Your car will experience the exact same weather conditions on the trailer as it would if you were driving it down the interstate. Rain, sun, and wind will affect it, but a standard car wash at its destination will have it looking brand new again.
“What about road debris?” While minor road dust or a stray pebble is possible, major damage is incredibly rare. Vehicles are positioned strategically on the tiers to minimize exposure.

For standard sedans, SUVs, trucks, and daily drivers, the cost savings of open transport vastly outweigh the microscopic risk of minor road dust.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Which is Right for You?

To help you decide, here is a quick rule of thumb:

Choose Open Transport if: You are shipping a daily driver, an SUV, a standard truck, or a budget-friendly vehicle, and you want the most economical and efficient service.
Choose Enclosed Transport if: You are shipping a rare classic car, a high-end luxury vehicle, an expensive sports car with low ground clearance, or a vehicle with a custom delicate paint job.

The Allstates Auto Shipping (AAS) Difference

At Allstates Auto Shipping, we understand that your vehicle is one of your most valuable assets. That’s why we don’t just find any carrier—we find the right carrier. When you book open auto transport with AAS, you get:

Vetted Carriers: We work exclusively with licensed, bonded, and top-rated carriers who boast excellent safety records.
Fully Insured Routes: Every shipment is backed by comprehensive cargo insurance, giving you total peace of mind from pickup to delivery.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, no bait-and-switch tactics. The quote you get is fair, accurate, and competitive.
End-to-End Support: Our dedicated customer service team is here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide updates along the way.

Ready to Move Your Vehicle?

Whether you’re relocating for a new job, sending a student off to college, or buying a car from an out-of-state dealership, Allstates Auto Shipping is here to make the process seamless.

Get a free, no-obligation open auto transport quote today! Visit us at aasllcusa.com or speak with one of our transport specialists to get your vehicle on the road safely.