Quick, Safe & Affordable Car Transport Company
Top Rated Open Vehicle Transport Services
- NexGen has shipped more than 5,000 thorung open vehicles transport method over the year.
- Popular and trusted transport option for more than 90% of customers in the US.
- Get a 10% discount if you are our new customer.
Calculate Your Car Shipping Cost
Open vehicle transport is a fast, affordable, and convenient way to ship cars from one state to another state or move temperlity with in state. with Thousand of open car carrier network , Nexgen provide open transport solutions for all types car across US. We offer both door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal shipping options, catering to diverse customer needs.
Having successfully transported thousands of vehicles, NexGen ensures safe and timely deliveries. Our open vehicle transport services are among the most economical methods available, with approximately 90% of customers opting for open carrier solutions due to their affordability and efficiency.
What Is Open Auto Transport?
Open auto transport is the most used method of shipping cars, also known as open car transport, involves shipping vehicles on open trailers without sides or roofs, exposing them to external elements like weather and road debris. This method is widely used due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
Open carriers are designed to transport multiple vehicles simultaneously(8-10 cars), making them a practical choice for standard cars, SUVs, and trucks. Although vehicles are exposed during transit, significant damage is rare. This method remains the most popular for car shipping needs in the U.S.


Customizable transport
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Complete insurance coverage
How Much Does Open Car Carrier Transport Cost?
Open car carrier transport costs vary from $400 to $1,800 depending on distance and vehicle type. Several factors influence pricing, making obtaining an accurate car shipping quote using a reliable shipping cost calculator necessary. Understanding these variables helps you anticipate expenses and make informed decisions.
factors affect open transport car shipping costs
The following factors affect open transport car shipping costs:
Distance: Distance between the pickup and delivery locations is the primary determinant of open car carrier transport cost. Longer distances result in higher costs, but the cost per mile decreases as distance increases. For short distances under 500 miles, open car carrier transport costs around $400 to $600. In comparison, medium distances of 500 to 1,500 miles range from $800 to $1,300, and long-distance transport over 1,500 miles costs between $1,250 and $1,800 or more.
Vehicle Size and Type: Larger and heavier vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, incur higher shipping costs due to the additional space and weight they occupy on the carrier.
Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier to load and unload, whereas inoperable ones require special equipment and handling, increasing open auto transport costs.
Transport Type: Choosing between open and enclosed transport affects pricing. Open car transport is more cost-effective, while enclosed transport offers additional protection at a higher price point. Enclosed car transport costs 30% to 60% more than open transport, offering greater vehicle protection but at a higher price.
Seasonality: Demand fluctuations throughout the year influence prices. For instance, shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons or harsh weather conditions. The peak season for car transport in the US, driven by relocations and vacations, runs from May to August.
Route and Location: Shipping between major cities or along popular routes is less expensive than transporting vehicles to or from remote or less accessible areas.
How Long Does Car Shipping Take with Open Transport?
auto shipping takes between 1 to 9 days with open transport, depending on the distance, route, and carrier schedule. On average, an open carrier car travels 500 miles daily, meaning the delivery time is estimated based on the total distance. For example, if you need to ship a vehicle to another state 1,500 miles away, the estimated delivery time would be around 3 days. However, real-world conditions such as traffic, weather, and carrier availability slightly extend the shipping time frame.
The average delivery time varies based on the trip length. Short distances under 500 miles usually take 1 to 2 days, while medium distances between 500 and 1,500 miles require 2 to 5 days. Long-distance transport over 1,500 miles takes anywhere from 5 to 9 days, depending on the route and transit conditions. Since open carrier transport involves multiple vehicles being shipped together, stops for pick-ups and drop-offs also influence delivery time.
Traffic and road conditions along the route cause delays, especially in highly congested urban areas or during construction periods. Weather conditions also play a role, as storms, snow, or heavy rain slow down transit. Carrier schedules also affect delivery time, as some transport services operate with specific routes and schedules, requiring flexibility for pick-up and drop-off coordination.
3 Simple Steps For Open Car Transport
To book an open vehicle transport service, simply request a car shipping quote, confirm your booking, and schedule the shipment with a trusted auto transport company. The process is straightforward, ensuring a cost-effective way to transport your vehicle safely and efficiently.
Get a Free Quote
The first step in the process is to obtain an instant car shipping quote using an online shipping quote calculator. This tool factors in key elements such as shipping cost, distance, vehicle type, and transport method to provide an accurate estimate. Once you review the pricing and select your preferred transport option, you confirm your booking with no upfront payment.
We Pick Up Your Vehicle
After booking, a car carrier service is assigned to transport your vehicle. A professional open-carrier car hauler will arrive at the designated pick-up location, inspect the vehicle, and securely load it onto the open-transport carrier. This step ensures a smooth and safe transition while informing you about estimated delivery timelines.
You Receive Your Vehicle at Your Doorstep
Once your vehicle reaches the destination, the carrier will contact you for final delivery. NexGen provides nationwide open car transport, ensuring timely and efficient service whether you need to ship a car to another state or a local city. Upon arrival, you’ll inspect the vehicle and sign the delivery confirmation to complete the process.
EXCELLENT Based on 194 reviews Rose Corbitt2025-03-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would recommend Henry for all your transport needs when he tells you the price and time he delivers Thank you again!! Angela2025-03-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service. Got my car fast and without damage. Henry was informative and there were no hidden charges. The delivery driver was friendly and professional. Would highly recommend this company. ellie richards2025-03-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I used Auto Transport LLC to have my dad's vehicle shipped from Florida to California where I live. I flew down to Florida to make sure the car was picked without any issues. The entire process was much easier than anticipated. Even the timeline they gave me exceed what they promised. Let me tell you, when the driver of the transport vehicle says he'll be at the finally destination in 20 minutes, he really means 20 minutes. I recommend them to everyone. You won't be disappointed. can Topcu2025-03-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hello everyone, First of all, I’m sharing this information for those who want to transport a car from another state. I got to know this company, and they did an amazing job delivering my car exactly on the promised date. Everything went smoothly, and I received my car without any issues. I highly recommend them to everyone—5 stars from me! Throughout the journey, I was constantly updated, and I never once had any doubts or concerns. This company truly provides a sense of trust. I did a lot of research before choosing them, and I was initially hesitant about trusting people with such a process. However, after working with this company, I will now use their services for all my future transportation needs. I highly recommend them to everyone! manuel vallecillo2025-03-05Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thanks Leo your patience and support made my pick up easy. Great job done..!! Best regards Nina A2025-02-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptional company with reasonable prices and prompt vehicle delivery. Marshall Harry2025-02-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. NextGen did an excellent job delivering my car! The process was smooth, communication was clear, and my vehicle arrived on time and in perfect condition. Highly recommend their service! Zhila Rz2025-02-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a fantastic experience with be gen company . Their team was professional, and handled everything with great care. From start to finish, the process was smooth, and their customer service was excellent. My car shipment arrived on time and in perfect condition. I highly recommend them for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient transport company! I give five star to Leo my representative who help me from start to finish. Thanks Lorena Almaguer2025-02-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great company! Great customer service, communication, and prompt! Bernardo Lorena2025-02-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very good work, responsive and completed the task as promised. I waited for 6 days before hearing back from Sonic, when Nexgen delivered next day. Good job!!! Thank you.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
What Is the Difference Between Open and Closed Transport?
The main difference between open transport and enclosed transport is the level of protection they provide. Open vehicle transport, or open-air transportation, exposes the car to external elements such as weather and road debris. Conversely, enclosed transport offers a fully covered trailer that shields the vehicle from outside conditions.
Open carrier car shipping is the more common and cost-effective way to transport vehicles, making it the preferred choice for standard cars, used vehicles, and everyday models. Enclosed transport shipping is designed explicitly for high-value, luxury, or classic vehicles that require extra protection. While open transport remains the more widely available and faster option, enclosed transport shipping offers added security at a higher price.
Why Is Open Carrier Car Shipping More Affordable Than Enclosed Transport?
Open carrier car shipping is more affordable than enclosed transport because it allows multiple vehicles to be transported on a single trailer, reducing overall costs. On the other hand, enclosed transport is 3 to 40% more expensive due to its limited capacity and the added protection it provides.
With open transport options, a standard trailer carries up to 10 vehicles at once, making it the most cost-effective way to ship a car. Enclosed auto transport accommodates fewer vehicles per load, leading to significantly higher rates. Because of this, open car shipping is recommended for everyday vehicles, while enclosed transport shipping is best suited for exotic, luxury, or high-end cars that require extra security.
For most customers, open vehicle shipping remains the ideal choice due to its affordability, availability, and fast car delivery times. However, for those seeking maximum protection against weather and road conditions, enclosed transport remains the better alternative despite its higher cost.

What Should Be Considered Before Hiring Our Open Trailer Car Transport Services?
Several factors should be considered before hiring Auto Transport Companies, including cost, carrier availability, insurance coverage, and delivery timelines. Understanding these aspects helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free vehicle shipping experience.
Before booking, obtaining a car shipping quote using a shipping cost calculator is required to estimate expenses accurately. The choice between open and enclosed transport should also be evaluated based on the vehicle type and protection needs. Customers should verify that the transport service is FMCSA-approved and offers fully insured shipping options to safeguard against potential damages. Scheduling flexibility is important, as open carrier transport depends on carrier availability and transport routes, impacting pickup and delivery times.
What Are the Payment Method Options?
The payment method options are credit/debit cards, bank transfers, paypal , cashapp, venmo, zelle, providing flexibility for customers. NexGen ensures a secure and convenient transaction process, allowing customers to choose their preferred method when booking their open car shipping service.
Customers obtain an instant car shipping quote and pay without an upfront deposit. Many auto transport companies accept major credit cards, ensuring a fast and hassle-free checkout process. ACH transfers and wire payments are available for those preferring direct bank transactions. NexGen offers digital payment options to facilitate the booking process, making it easy to arrange car carrier shipping without unnecessary delays.
What Are the Requirements for Open Car Transport Services?
The requirements for open car transport services are proper vehicle documentation, a fully operational car, and a scheduled pick-up location. Meeting these criteria ensures an effortless shipping process.
Before scheduling open carrier car transport, customers must provide a valid vehicle registration, title, and proof of insurance. The car must be operable, meaning it should start, steer, and brake without issues. If the vehicle is inoperable, special arrangements are required, which impact the shipping cost and transport process.
Transparent access to the pick-up and drop-off location is also a necessary requirement for the car carrier service to load and unload efficiently.
Are There Any Cancellation Fees?
Yes, cancellation fees apply depending on the stage of the booking process. If a cancellation occurs before a carrier has been assigned, the fee is minimal or waived. However, once a driver has been dispatched for pick-up, a cancellation charge is deducted from the initial payment.
NexGen offers flexible transport options and strives to accommodate changes when possible. Last-minute cancellations impact logistics, especially when dealing with nationwide open car transport services. Customers are encouraged to review the cancellation policy before confirming their open transport service to avoid unexpected charges.
Can I Ship Personal Items Inside My Car?
Yes, we allow up to 100 lbs of personal items inside your vehicle. If your personal items exceed 100 lbs, you will be charged an additional $50–$100.
However, shipping personal items inside your car is not recommended when using open auto transport. Auto transport regulations prohibit excessive personal belongings inside the vehicle, as they can shift during transit and cause damage.
While open carrier shipping is designed specifically for vehicle transport, insurance does not cover personal items inside the car. Carriers also have weight restrictions, and any extra weight from luggage or other belongings may increase the shipping cost. To comply with transport service guidelines, customers must remove all non-essential items from the vehicle before shipping.
Is My Car Insured on Open Carrier Car Shipping?
Yes, your car is insured on open carrier car shipping. NexGen provides up to $250,000 in coverage per shipment, ensuring protection against damages during transport.
While open transport remains the most cost-effective way to ship a car, insurance coverage adds an extra layer of security. In the unlikely event of damage occurring during transit, the car carrier service will handle the claims process to compensate for repairs. Customers are encouraged to review the specific coverage details with their assigned auto transport company before shipping to ensure they fully understand the terms.
Is Open Car Transport a Door-to-Door Service?
Yes, open car transport can be a door-to-door service. The carrier picks up your car from a location you choose and delivers it to your door. If it’s not possible, they will make alternative arrangements and get as close to your door as they can.
What Are the Benefits of Using Our Open Transport Car Shipping?
The benefits of using our open transport car shipping are cost efficiency, flexibility, and secure transportation for a wide range of vehicles. NexGen’s open carrier transport is designed to provide an optimal balance between affordability and reliability.
Enhanced Security
While open car shipping exposes the vehicle to natural elements, NexGen ensures secure tie-down methods and professional handling. Open carrier car transport uses specialized car hauler trailers equipped with tie-down straps and advanced loading techniques, minimizing the risk of movement during transit. This ensures the vehicle remains stable throughout the journey.
Flexible Scheduling
With a vast nationwide network of car carriers, NexGen offers flexible pick-up and delivery options to accommodate customer needs. Whether you need to ship a car to another state or transport multiple vehicles simultaneously, our auto transport company provides efficient scheduling with minimal wait times. Open vehicle transport remains the most accessible option for customers nationwide.
Time-Saving
Open carrier shipping is faster than enclosed transport shipping, allowing multi-car open transport and reducing the required trips. Our carriers travel up to 500 miles per day, ensuring timely delivery. This makes open carrier transport an ideal solution for individuals and businesses looking for a fast and effective way to relocate vehicles without delays.
Suitable for All Vehicle Types
From standard sedans to SUVs and trucks, open transport car shipping accommodates a wide range of vehicles. It is the preferred method for dealerships, rental companies, and individuals looking for a cost-effective way to transport their cars safely. While enclosed transport remains the best option for luxury or high-end vehicles, open transport options offer a reliable and affordable alternative for everyday cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Car dealerships prefer open auto transport because it is cost-effective, widely available, and allows for multi-car shipping. Open carriers transport up to 10 vehicles at once, reducing costs per unit. Dealerships benefit from fast delivery, ensuring a steady inventory turnover and efficient logistics management.
Yes, open auto transport is safe. Vehicles are secured using tie-down straps and transported by experienced carriers. While cars are exposed to weather and road debris, the risk of significant damage is low. NexGen provides $250,000 in insurance coverage, ensuring protection during the shipping process.
No, open car shipping is not the best option for luxury cars. High-end vehicles are more vulnerable to road debris, weather exposure, and minor scratches. Enclosed transport shipping is recommended for luxury, exotic, and classic cars, as it provides maximum protection and prevents external elements from affecting the vehicle.
The types of open car carriers are multi-car open transport, single-car open haulers, and open trailer car shipping. Multi-car open transport is the most common, carrying 7 to 10 vehicles simultaneously. Single-car open haulers are used for quick, dedicated deliveries. Open trailers are smaller carriers for local transport.
Yes, weather is a problem in open auto transport. Vehicles are exposed to rain, snow, and dust, which causes minor dirt accumulation. However, damage from weather is rare, and professional carriers ensure cars are securely fastened to withstand environmental conditions. A simple wash after delivery resolves most concerns.
You can track your vehicle during transit by contacting your assigned carrier or using the company’s tracking system. Once your car shipping order is confirmed, you receive real-time updates. Carriers provide estimated arrival times and notify you of any delays to ensure a smooth car delivery process.
Open transport car shipping is highly flexible, offering multiple pick-up and delivery options. With a vast nationwide network of car carriers, NexGen provides door-to-door car transport, terminal-to-terminal shipping, and expedited options. The high availability of open car transport ensures quick scheduling and competitive pricing.
Yes, open transport car shipping is available nationwide. For example, NexGen provides coast-to-coast vehicle shipping, covering urban and rural areas. With an extensive network of auto transport companies, open carriers are readily available to transport cars across the country, ensuring fast and cost-effective delivery.
The risks associated with open transport car shipping are exposure to weather, minor road debris, and potential delays. Since open carrier cars are not enclosed, they collect dust or require a wash upon delivery. However, proper securing methods and insurance coverage minimize significant risks.