Open car transport, also known as open carrier car shipping or open trailer shipping, is the most popular and affordable method of vehicle transport in the U.S. You have most probably seen open car carriers on highways carrying several vehicles, usually 8-10, at once. This setup is very efficients and allows multiple cars to be transported together, lowering the overall cost. With all the correct handling, this method ensures excellent safety standards.

At Baltimore Car Transport, we specialize in open auto transport that’s safe, convenient and cheap. Our open carrier transport services make it easy to move your car both across the state and throughout the United States without stress.

Why Choose Open Car Transport?

Open vehicle transport is ideal for most customers because it offers the perfect balance of value and reliability. Here’s why:

  • Affordable: Since several vehicles share the same carrier, open transport car shipping is the most economical option available. It may cost up to 50% less than enclosed car transport. Note, however, that during peak seasons, prices for all vehicle transport methods tend to go up.
  • Safe and Secure: Our experienced drivers carefully load, secure and inspect each vehicle before transit. We have all the necessary equipment and car haulers to handle any vehicle, including inoperable cars and heavy machinery.
  • Versatile: Perfect for sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks and standard vehicles.
  • Efficient: With more carrier availability, open car shipping ensures faster pickup and delivery times. More than 90% of all car transport trucks in the U.S. are open carrier trailers.

Of course, vehicles on an open trailer are exposed to weather and road elements during open-air car transport, but they are fully insured and handled with care throughout the journey. For most customers, this method is the safest and most affordable option for regular cars.

How Open Auto Transport Works

  1. Book Your Shipment. Request a free quote online or by phone. We will confirm pickup and delivery dates that fit your schedule.
  2. Pickup Day. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open car carrier with secure straps and all necessary safety inspections.
  3. In Transit. You will receive live updates and can track progress as your car travels on one of our open trailers. Our customer support reps keep you updated thtoughout the journey.
  4. Delivery. We deliver your vehicle door-to-door whenever possible and the destination is accessible for the car hauler. A final inspection is completed upon arrival.

From start to finish, Baltimore Car Transport makes your open carrier auto transport experience simple, transparent and reliable.

When to Choose Open Auto Shipping

Open auto shipping is the best choice if you:

  • Want to ship your car at the lowest cost
  • Need to move a standard vehicle (not luxury or exotic)
  • Are relocating for school, work or military service
  • Are buying or selling a car online and need fast delivery
  • Are shipping your car over long distances.
  • Are a dealership transporting multiple vehicles at a time.
  • Have purchased your vehicle from an auction.

If you are shipping a luxury, classic or high-value car, you need to consider our Enclosed Auto Shipping option for added protection from weather and debris.

Door-to-Door Open Transport

With our door-to-door open car transport, we handle all the logistics so you don’t have to worry. Your vehicle will be picked up and delivered at your specified locations, helping you save time and effort. No terminals, no stops; just smooth, direct delivery.

Our drivers operate modern open car carriers equipped with advanced safety systems to ensure every vehicle arrives in top condition.

Fully Licensed, Insuredand Trusted Nationwide

Every open carrier car transport service includes full insurance coverage for complete peace of mind. We only work with licensed and insured carriers that comply with all FMCSA and DOT regulations.

With nearly two decades of experience, Baltimore Car Transport has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted names in open car shipping, serving individuals, families, dealerships and businesses nationwide.

Get a Free Open Car Transport Quote

Ready to ship your vehicle safely and affordably?
Contact Baltimore Car Transport today for a free quote. Our experts will help you find the best open carrier transport solution for your needs: fast, reliable and always at a fair price.

 
Is open car transport safe for my vehicle?
Yes, open car transport is a totally safe and widely used method for shipping regular vehicles nationwide. Your car will be securely fastened to an open car carrier and fully insured during transit. The vehicle will be exposed to weather and road elements, but even minor damages are extremely rare. Most dealerships and manufacturers use open carrier transport for their deliveries.
 
The cost of open auto shipping depends on different factors, including distance, vehicle size, season and carrier availability. On average, open carrier car shipping is 30–40%, sometimes 50% cheaper than enclosed transport. You can get an exact price by requesting a free open transport quote from Baltimore Car Transport: no hidden fees, no surprises.
 
 
Transit time for open car shipping ranges from 1 to 10 days, depending on your pickup and delivery locations. Distance and seasonality play a great role in determining transit duration. Local routes around Maryland can be completed in 1-2 days, and cross-country open trailer car shipping may take 7-10 days. We always provide an estimated delivery window before pickup and keep you updated throughout the journey.
 
Open vehicle transport is ideal for most standard vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks and minivans. It’s also suitable for used cars, family vehicles or newly purchased cars from dealerships and auctions. However, for luxury, classic or high-value cars, we recommend enclosed auto transport for maximum protection.
 

The main difference is protection level and price.

Open car transport: Vehicles are shipped on an open trailer but secured and fully insured. It’s the most affordable and efficient option.

Enclosed auto shipping: Cars are transported in a covered trailer, protected from weather and debris. It’s best for exotic, classic, or luxury vehicles.

At Baltimore Car Transport, we offer both methods so you can choose the best one for your vehicle and budget.