Open Carrier Car Shipping

Nationwide Door-To-Door Open Car Transport Services

NIKI CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Open Transport Car Shipping Services

 
When it comes to transporting your vehicle across the country, there are a variety of options available. One popular choice is open transport car shipping, which offers a number of benefits compared to other methods of shipping. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what open transport car shipping is, the benefits it offers, and how it differs from other shipping options.
NIKI AUTO
NIKI AUTO TRANSPORT
NIKI AUTO TRANSPORT ADVERTISING

What Is Open Transport Car Shipping?

The Most Common Method of Vehicle Shipping

Open car transport is the most popular and economical of our vehicle shipping services. With open carrier car shipping, your vehicle will be shipped door-to-door on an open trailer car carrier – most commonly seen on highways and delivering to dealerships across the country.

 The Cost-Effective Way to Ship a Car Anywhere Safely

Open carrier car transport is the standard for car shipping and is the least expensive option for nationwide car shipping.

Open transport car shipping is the most popular and cost-effective way to transport a car from one location to another. This method features an open trailer that transports several vehicles at once, which can be a great option for regular car owners, dealerships, or manufacturers. This type of car shipping can provide numerous benefits and risks.
Open transport car shipping is ideal if you want to transport cars over long distances ranging from a few hundred miles to thousands of miles across the country. This is more affordable than other transport options because your car is transported along with several other vehicles in an open trailer, which reduces the cost. In addition to this, it is a more flexible option that offers a wider range of pick-up and delivery times that will suit your schedule and needs.
Open transport car shipping remains the preferred option for many individuals, dealers, and manufacturers. It is a great choice for regular car owners who want to transport their cars for long distance moves, move their cars to a new location, or ship a vehicle bought at auction. It is also suitable for dealerships or car manufacturers who need to transport multiple vehicles at once.
The cost of open transport car shipping can range anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands, depending on the distance, weather, and other factors. Car shipping brokers or companies can provide quotes and help facilitate the transport process. These companies provide trained staff who handle the process and help ensure the safe delivery of your vehicle.
 
 
NIKI AUTO TRANSPORT 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Speedy service

Open car transport is the fastest way to ship your car. Over 90% of truckers operate an open road auto transport trailer, which means there are more options to pick up your car.

Most affordable option

Most people are just looking for the best overall option when shipping a car. Some people, mostly classic car owners, prefer to ship enclosed. But if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, open auto transport is the way to go.

Topload available

With open vehicle transport, you can add the top load preference for a little extra. This means no vehicle would be loaded above yours during the open car shipping process.

Used by most car dealerships

Dealerships almost always use open auto transport when they send cars from one location to another. We work with some of the largest dealers in the country and often haul brand new vehicles for them using open auto transport.

Benefits of Open Transport Car Shipping

When it comes to shipping a vehicle, you have two main options: open transport car shipping and enclosed transport car shipping. While enclosed transport offers more protection for your vehicle, open transport remains the most popular choice for a variety of reasons.

1. Affordability

One of the primary benefits of open transport car shipping is its affordability. Because open transport carriers can haul more cars at a time than enclosed carriers, the cost per vehicle is significantly lower. This makes open transport a more attractive option for customers who need to ship their cars on a budget.
For example, let’s say you are moving across the country and must use cross country car shipping. Enclosed car shipping may cost you $1,000 or more, while open transport may only cost $500-$800. This can save you a considerable amount of money, particularly if you already face other expenses associated with your move.

2. Availability

Another advantage of open transport is its availability. Because open transport carriers are more common than enclosed carriers, you’re more likely to find an open carrier available when needed. This can be especially beneficial if you need to ship your car on short notice or during a busy time of the year, such as a holiday season or peak moving season.
For example, if you’re a snowbird who spends summer  in California and summers in Florida, you may need to transport your car twice a year. Because thousands of other snowbirds have the same schedule, you can imagine how difficult it would be to secure an enclosed carrier during this peak season. But because open transport is so readily available, you can ensure your car arrives on time and without incident.

3. Flexibility

Open transport car shipping also offers greater flexibility than enclosed transport. For example, if you’re shipping a large vehicle that won’t fit in an enclosed trailer, open transport may be your only option. Additionally, open transport carriers can handle multiple vehicles of different makes and models, allowing you to transport all of your cars at once.
For example, let’s say you’re a car collector with a dozen classic vehicles spread across the country. It would be impractical and cost-prohibitive to ship each car separately. But with open transport, you can load all of your cars onto a single trailer and transport them all at once, saving time and money.

4. Improved Visibility

Finally, open transport car shipping offers improved visibility, which can be helpful for both you and the transport carrier. Because open transport trailers are open to the elements, it’s easier for carriers to inspect vehicles throughout the shipping process. And because your car is visible to everyone passing by, it’s less likely to go missing or be subject to theft.
For example, if you’re shipping a luxury car, you may be concerned about its safety and security during transport. But with open transport, you can track your car online and rest assured that it’s being looked after by a reputable carrier

Why choose NIKI for open car shipping?

Trusted network of carriers

All of our carriers are chosen because of their dedication to high quality service standards. This allows us to find the best quality carriers to ship a car very quickly.

Best prices

We always offer the best car shipping prices possible. Our smart online calculator determines all factors to get you the fairest and accurate open car transport cost as possible.

No upfront payment

As mentioned above, most auto-transport companies (the ones you want to book with, at least) charge you once the carrier has been dispatched for your order. This means you’ll be able to book your open auto transport now and worry about the bill later.

Friendly customer service

Our representatives are always friendly and helpful. They will make sure that you have an excellent experience from start to finish.

Difference Between Open and Enclosed Transport Car Shipping

Transporting a car from one point to another can be a daunting task, especially if you have little or no knowledge of the industry. Before you start planning your car shipment, it is essential to understand the difference between open and enclosed car shipment.

Open Transport Car Shipping

Open transport car shipping is a car shipping method where vehicles are transported on an open trailer exposed to the elements, including wind, rain, dust, and debris. This is the most commonly used method of shipping cars, and it is also the most cost-effective. Open transport car shipping is ideal for people who want to transport their vehicles for short distances, such as across a state.
Open transport car shipping is often used by car dealerships, rental car companies, and individuals transporting their cars to and from dealerships. Since open transport car shipping is the most convenient and cheapest way of transporting cars, it allows dealerships to transport their vehicles to various locations without incurring significant costs.
Open transport car shipping is also ideal for people shipping ordinary vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, and minivans since these vehicles are commonly used and are not too expensive. Additionally, since the trailers used for open transport car shipping can carry multiple cars, the shipping costs per vehicle are much lower than other car shipping methods.

Enclosed Transport Car Shipping

Enclosed transport car shipping is a car shipping method where vehicles are transported in a closed trailer. The closed trailer protects the vehicles from the elements, including wind, rain, dust, and debris. This is the safest way of transporting your car, and it is ideal for people who have expensive or classic cars.
Enclosed transport car shipping is often used by car enthusiasts, collectors, and dealerships transporting expensive or rare vehicles. Since these vehicles are expensive, they require specialized care during transportation. Enclosed transport car shipping offers the best possible protection for these vehicles.
Enclosed transport car shipping is also ideal for people transporting luxury or exotic vehicles such as Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Bugatti. Since these cars are very expensive, they require specialized care and treatment during shipping. Enclosed transport car shipping is perfect for people who want complete peace of mind when transporting their expensive vehicles.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car shipping method depends on several factors, including the distance of the journey, the type of vehicle being shipped, and the level of protection required during transportation. If you’re shipping an ordinary vehicle or don’t have a large budget, open transport car shipping is the most cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you’re shipping an expensive or classic car, enclosed transport car shipping is the safest option. Whatever option you choose, make sure that your car shipping company is professional, licensed, and insured to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

Contact NIKI to Learn More or Get Started

With over 20 years of reliable nationwide vehicle shipping services, NIKI Auto Transport has earned our reputation as one of the most trusted car transport companies in the US . Our experienced team of shipping experts strives to exceed the expectations of our customers and deliver outstanding service at every part of the vehicle delivery process.
From complete vehicle coverage to 24/7 online shipment tracking, we give you professional auto shipping services that you can depend on.
Contact us today to learn more and get started with your car transport.

Common Open Transport Car Shipping Questions

What does open transport mean?

Open transport refers to a type of transportation service in which the goods or materials being transported are exposed to the elements and not enclosed in a container. Examples of open transport include flatbed trucks, open trailers, and roll-on/roll-off ships. This type of transport is commonly used for items that are large, bulky, or too heavy for an enclosed trailer or container. Open car shipping is generally less expensive than enclosed transport, but it also leaves the goods more susceptible to damage from weather and road debris.

Who is the most reliable car transport company?

If you’re looking for the most reliable car transport company in the industry, trust NIKI Auto Transport for all your vehicle shipping needs.

What is the difference between open and closed transport?

Open transport refers to a shipping method where a vehicle is transported on an open trailer exposed to weather elements, while closed transport refers to transporting a vehicle in an enclosed trailer that is not exposed to the weather. Closed transport is generally safer and more secure than open transport, but it may also come at a higher cost. Open transport is more economical and more commonly used for standard vehicles that do not require extra protection. However, high-value or classic cars may require closed transport to ensure their safety and avoid damage during transit.

FREE -No Obligation Quotation

Price & Satisfaction Guarantee

NIKI AUTO TRANSPORT

NIKI Auto Transport is fully licensed, insured

A proud member of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Why you should book with one of the best auto shipping companies: Transport is as easy as 1-2-3!

The benefits and advantages of shipping with NIKI Auto Transport.

Professional Team

As a leading auto transport company, we ensure your vehicle is shipped safely and efficiently from start to finish. Our team of seasoned transport experts manages every detail of the process, giving you peace of mind and a smooth, hassle-free shipping experience.

Extended hours

Why choose our auto transport company? Niki Auto Transport is with you every step of the way, making your car or truck shipment simple and stress-free. When you ship with us, you’ll experience a smooth, worry-free process from start to finish.

Dedicated advisors

Our team of professional auto transport advisors works around the clock to ensure your shipping experience is seamless from start to finish. Whether you’re transporting a family car, luxury vehicle, or truck, our experts are always available to provide guidance, updates, and personalized support.

The best company

Why do customers say Niki is the best choice for car shipping? Our reputation speaks for itself—just take a look at our online reviews and testimonials. Thousands of satisfied customers trust Niki Auto Transport for our reliability, transparency, and exceptional service. From coast to coast, drivers choose us as one of the most dependable car shipping and vehicle hauling companies in the industry.

Zero upfront payment

That’s right—no upfront payment required! At Niki Auto Transport, you won’t be charged until a carrier has been assigned to your shipment. This means you can secure your booking today without any immediate payment or risk. The best auto transport companies operate this way to give you confidence and flexibility—so you can plan your car shipment now and handle the cost only when your vehicle is ready to hit the road.

Insurance coverage

Every car transport quote from Niki Auto Transport includes insurance coverage for your peace of mind. We carefully screen and approve each auto hauler in our network, ensuring they meet or exceed industry insurance requirements before they’re allowed to transport your vehicle. This guarantees that your car is protected throughout the entire shipping process by fully insured, trusted professionals.

Nationwide auto carriers

Niki Auto Transport partners with a vast network of professional haulers who are carefully vetted for reliability, experience, and expertise. Each carrier in our network is a trusted auto shipping specialist dedicated to handling your vehicle with the utmost care. We work only with transporters who treat every car as if it were their own—ensuring your vehicle arrives safely, securely, and on time.

Extended hours

Our award-winning team of auto transport advisors is available 365 days a year to support all your vehicle shipping needs. Whether you’re scheduling a pickup, tracking your car in transit, or finalizing delivery, our experts are here every single day to make the process effortless. At Niki Auto Transport, we’re committed to providing reliable service, clear communication, and peace of mind—no matter when or where you need us.

Trusted Partners and Clients:

Car Transportation Service Across USA

Looking to ship your car to another state or across the country? NIKI ships to all 50 states. Select a state to learn more about local auto transport services.

Top Auto Shipping Routes

Frequently asked questions

Can I put personal items in the car?

You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.

You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
How much does it cost to ship a car?

When determining your car shipping cost, there are a few factors that we take into account in order to provide you with an accurate price quote. The mileage between the origin and destination is the biggest factor that contributes to your total rate. In addition to the distance of your relocation, another factor is the type and condition of the vehicle being shipped. The final factor is the date that your vehicle will be ready for transport. There are also additional options, such as enclosed carrier and top-load service that can be added to your shipment at the time of booking for a higher level of service. Read more about how much it costs to ship a car.

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator or you can call (888) 477-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. To calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

The transit time for your shipment is based mostly on the mileage between the pickup and delivery location. Generally, every five hundred miles will add one day to the transit time – so for a 1,000 mile transport, the transit time would be 2-3 days. Check out our estimated transit times for a detailed view of approximate delivery times.

We accept all major credit cards, electronic transfer, postal money order, and bank/certified check for the deposit or full pre-payment of your shipment. If a balance is due upon delivery, it can be paid directly to the driver and can be paid in either cash, bank/certified check, or postal money order.

Yes, there must be someone present to release and accept the vehicle, provide keys to the driver and sign the initial and final inspection reports. This person can be anyone over the age of 18 that you trust with releasing or accepting your vehicle.

The further in advance you schedule your shipment, the more likely we will be able to meet the time requirements you desire. For best results, we suggest scheduling your transport at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance. Expedited shipping options are available to accomodate shipments that require . You can always give us a call and ask one of our car shipping experts what your options are in terms of the schedule for your car transport.

Where will my car be picked up and delivered?
The driver will get the car transporter as close to your door as he can legally and safely get. In most cases, the driver will be able to pickup and deliver directly to your door. Some cities may have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into residential areas. Auto transport trucks are large and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to the pickup or delivery location is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet at a location nearby with a large parking lot, such as a grocery store.

Open transport is the most common car shipping method. There are two types of open-air transporters. The Majority of shipments are be made with 8-10 car carriers. Smaller carriers which hold 2-3 cars are used for shorter, local car moving. There is a broader network of carrier availability for open-air carriers since they are used more often. We suggest choosing enclosed car shipping methods when shipping classic, luxury or exotic vehicles. Enclosed vehicle transportation guarantees maximum protection from exposure to any open-air elements on the road. We suggest booking your enclosed transport in advance since carrier availability is limited. Read more about the difference between open and enclosed transport

all types of vehicles including sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, minivans, oversized vehicles, antiques, classic cars, motorcycles, construction vehicles, inoperable cars and boats. If you are not sure whether or not we can ship your vehicle, you can give us a call to find out what we can do for you.

You should have about a quarter of a tank of gas in your car at the time of shipment. This leaves enough for the car to be loaded and unloaded but doesn’t add much additional weight.

Make sure your car has been completely cleaned, both inside and outside. This is particularly important because this will help the driver conduct their inspection in order to assess any pre-existing damage on your vehicle. You will also want to make there are no additional personal items in the vehicle unless you intend to ship those with the vehicle (remember those items must total less than 100 pounds combined and be kept below the window-line of the vehicle). Be sure to inform the driver of any special circumstances concerning the vehicle. Finally, make sure there is a quarter tank of gas in the car at the time it is picked up for shipment. Visit our car shipping checklist to make sure you are prepared for your vehicle shipment.

Yes, we can ship vehicles that are in non-running/inoperable condition. When inoperable cars are shipped, a special auto carrier is required that makes use of a winch which is connected to your car and slowly and safely pulls your vehicle onto the carrier. There is an additional fee for inoperable vehicles because of the special equipment and extra work involved with securing the vehicle onto the transporter. You can select the inoperable option on the online booking form or inform your shipping agent if you make your reservation by phone so that the proper arrangements can be made to accommodate a non-running vehicle.

Ready to get a car shipping quote with NIKI?

Google

(52749 reviews)

4.8
BBB
(4440 reviews)
4.7
Transport Reviews

(838 reviews)

4.8
My Moving Reviews

(578 reviews)

4.8

Get an instant quote

or call now (888) 666-8929