Open Auto Transport-The Cheapest Car Shipping Option
What is Open Auto Transport?
Today, open auto transport carriers are the most common and easiest to find in the auto transport industry. They are the preferred trucks for the majority of auto transport companies, transporting roughly 90% of all auto transport freight each year, and they are also the most cost-effective carriers on the road.
When a car shipping company states that it uses open-air trucks, it is referring to the type of carrier that most people associate with car transportation. This truck is generally 75 to 80 feet long and transports a two-level trailer with a row of cars on top and a shorter row of cars on the bottom. The trailer has no sides or a roof, so the vehicles are always exposed to the weather.
As previously stated, open carriers are the industry’s standard carriers. There are a large number of open carriers on the road running various routes; chances are, no matter where you are shipping from or to, there’ll be a carrier willing to move your car for you.
Enclosed vs Open Auto Transport
Most car transport companies will offer their customers the option of shipping their vehicles in an enclosed vehicle, but this is often more expensive than using a traditional hauler.
The main reason you might be interested in it is that it offers significantly more protection while in transit.
Exposed haulers leave your vehicle vulnerable to the elements, including harsh weather and vandalism. However, enclosed haulers can protect your vehicle from the elements.
High-end sports cars, race cars, and other one-of-a-kind vehicles may be ideal for enclosed transport due to their monetary value.
While open auto transport is the most popular type of auto transport, it is also the least expensive option, has better visibility so the driver can inspect the vehicles more easily while in transport, and uses less fuel than an enclosed model, which is better for the environment.
So these two options differ mostly depending on the car that is being shipped; if the vehicle is expensive and valuable to you, it is best to use enclosed auto transport, but if you want fast, less expensive, and ready-to-go shipping, open auto transport would work best for you.
Is Open Auto Transport Safe?
While it is true that open auto transports are exposed to outside elements during the shipping process, the shipping company you choose has an influence on the safety of your vehicle. If you need to move the car a long distance, you should think about hiring a vehicle transport company to assist you. These professionals will be able to pick up your car and transport it safely to your new location while you handle the rest of the move.
Things to consider before booking an open auto transport
When booking an open auto transport, it is best to conduct your own research on the company and the services they provide, as well as the things you should consider before booking an open auto transport, which include your budget, the type of car, the distance, and the weather.
Budget
Of course, your budget will determine which option is best for you, as open auto transport is significantly less expensive than enclosed auto transport. As we all know, enclosed shipping costs anywhere from 30% to 65% more than open shipping.
Type of car
Your car type may also be the best way to choose the type of auto transport. If your car is valuable, an enclosed auto transport may be the best option for the security it provides, whereas an open auto transport may be the best option if you simply want to ship a less expensive vehicle from another location.
Distance
If you’re shipping your vehicle across the country, for example, and you value speed, an open auto transport would be the best option. However, if you’re shipping your vehicle over a long distance and want its safety to be your top priority, enclosed auto transport is the way to go.
Weather
The last thing you should think about when booking open auto transport is the weather. As we all know, open auto transport is exposed to the elements like dirt, rocks, and even flying debris during bad weather, which can damage your vehicle on the road.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Open Auto Transport
Advantages: Affordable and Fast Shipping
Advantages include being the least expensive auto transport option, having better visibility so the driver can inspect the vehicles more easily while in transit, and using less fuel than an enclosed model, which is better for the environment. Another advantage is that it is much faster than an enclosed auto track.
Disadvantages: Exposure to Elements
The disadvantage is that the vehicle is constantly exposed to the elements, provides little protection from road debris, and is less secure than a fully enclosed trailer. During the shipping process, your car will be exposed to rain and snow, as well as dust and dirt, rocks, and even insects, which may cause damage.
How Much Does Open Auto Transport Cost?
Open carriers provide the cheapest rates for several reasons.
For one, they can haul up to ten cars at a time, which means that less money is needed per vehicle. – carriers can schedule pickups and deliveries to make sure that they always have plenty of money on hand to fuel their trucks, maintain them, etc. Not only that, but because there are so many traveling along the same basic routes, many routes have carriers essentially competing for loads, trying to undercut each other and get more loads to transport. If you are searching for an open auto transport quote, you’ve definitely come to the right place. We here at BKK Transport only work with the best open carriers in the industry to transport your vehicle, so you know that if you book with us, your car will be in good hands.