Open Air Auto Transport, also known as open carrier transport, is one of the most popular and cost-effective methods for shipping vehicles. It involves transporting your car on an open trailer, which can carry multiple vehicles at once. This method is widely used across the automotive industry, including for personal vehicle shipping, dealership deliveries, and auction car transport.

How Open Air Auto Transport Works

• The Carrier Type: Open auto transport uses trailers with no sides or roof, exposing vehicles to the elements. These carriers are commonly seen on highways, transporting anywhere from 3 to 10 cars depending on the size of the trailer.
• Vehicle Loading: Cars are loaded onto the trailer using ramps or hydraulic lifts. The vehicles are then securely fastened to prevent movement during transit.
• Door-to-Door Service: Many providers offer door-to-door delivery, meaning they pick up and drop off the car as close to your specified locations as possible.

Benefits of Open Air Auto Transport

1. Affordability: Open carriers are more common and cost less to operate than enclosed carriers, making this the budget-friendly option for most customers.
2. Availability: Since open auto transport is the industry standard, there are plenty of carriers and flexible scheduling options.
3. Efficiency: Open carriers can transport multiple vehicles at once, which reduces overall costs and time for transport.

Considerations for Open Air Auto Transport

1. Exposure to Elements: Vehicles are exposed to weather conditions, dust, and debris. While this rarely causes significant issues, it’s worth noting for owners of high-end or vintage cars.
2. Minimal Protection: Unlike enclosed transport, open carriers do not provide physical barriers against potential scratches or dents from road debris.
3. Insurance Coverage: Reputable carriers provide insurance to cover damages during transit. Always confirm the coverage details with your transporter.

Who Should Choose Open Air Auto Transport?

• Everyday Vehicles: It’s an excellent option for transporting standard cars, SUVs, and trucks.
• Dealerships and Fleets: Businesses looking to ship multiple cars efficiently benefit greatly from this method.
• Budget-Conscious Customers: If cost savings are a priority, open transport offers the best value.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Clean Your Car: Washing your vehicle before transport helps identify any existing damage.
2. Document the Condition: Take photos of your car from multiple angles to document its condition before shipping.
3. Remove Personal Items: Most carriers prohibit personal belongings inside the vehicle during transit.
4. Check for Leaks: Ensure your car has no fluid leaks that might affect the carrier or other vehicles.

Final Thoughts

Open Air Auto Transport is a reliable and economical solution for vehicle shipping. While it may not offer the same level of protection as enclosed transport, its affordability and availability make it an attractive choice for many. By understanding how the process works and taking proper precautions, you can ensure your car arrives safely and on time.