35 Insider Tips for First-Time Open Auto Transport Users

Are you planning to relocate, purchase a car from another state, or send a vehicle to a loved one across the country?

If so, open auto transport might be the most practical and budget-friendly solution for you.

It’s the most popular method for shipping vehicles across long distances in the U.S. — but if it’s your first time, it can feel confusing.

That’s why we’ve put together these 35 essential tips to help first-time car shippers feel confident and prepared.

🚙 Understanding Open Auto Transport Basics

Open auto transport means your car is shipped on a two-level open trailer, the same kind commonly used to deliver cars to dealerships.

It’s safe, efficient, and affordable, making it ideal for everyday drivers.

Why Choose Open Auto Transport?

• Lower cost compared to enclosed auto transport
• More availability and faster scheduling
• Suitable for most standard vehicles

While open auto transport is ideal for most vehicles, you may also want to consider options like the Virginia Auto Train if you’re planning a longer trip and prefer a more efficient way to transport your vehicle.

Note: If you’re transporting a luxury, classic, or exotic car, you may want to consider enclosed auto transport instead.

🧭 Before Booking Your Vehicle Shipment

Proper planning is key when it comes to open auto transport. Before you hand over your keys, take time to ensure you’re working with a trusted company that meets your expectations and protects your vehicle throughout the journey.

1. Research Reputable Auto Transport Companies

Start by checking whether the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) — this ensures they are legally authorized to operate.

Then, dive into customer reviews on sites like BBB, Google, and Trustpilot. Be wary of companies with vague pricing structures or overly generic responses to concerns.

A transparent company will be clear about their process, timelines, and policies.

Pro tip: Avoid companies that only communicate via email or don’t list a valid DOT number.

2. Request Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle for the first offer you get. Use car shipping marketplaces and comparison tools to gather at least 3–5 quotes from verified companies.

This gives you a baseline understanding of what’s fair for your route and vehicle type.

Look for quotes that clearly include:

• Pickup and delivery windows
• Type of transport (open or enclosed)
• Any potential surcharges
• Insurance coverage

3. Avoid Ultra-Cheap Offers

If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Unusually low quotes often come with trade-offs:

• Hidden fees added later
• Delayed pickup or delivery
• Brokers who can’t find a carrier at the promised rate
• Risk of dealing with uninsured or unlicensed operators

Paying a little more upfront can mean better service, reliability, and peace of mind.

4. Know the Average Open Car Shipping Cost

To set expectations, understand typical price ranges. Open car shipping generally costs between:

Distance	Estimated Cost
0–500 miles	\$500–\$700
500–1,000 miles	\$700–\$900
1,000–1,500 miles	\$900–\$1,100
1,500+ miles	\$1,100–\$1,300

These rates vary depending on season, fuel prices, type of vehicle, and route popularity.

5. Verify Insurance Coverage

Always ask the company for a Certificate of Insurance and confirm:

• Liability limits
• Cargo coverage
• What’s covered during loading and unloading
• Whether your personal auto policy covers shipping damage

If the carrier’s coverage isn’t comprehensive enough, consider purchasing supplemental insurance.

🔧 Preparing Your Vehicle for Open Transport

Taking time to properly prepare your car before shipping can help prevent delays, reduce risks, and ensure a smooth experience with your open auto transport provider.

These simple steps will protect both your vehicle and your peace of mind.

6. Wash the Exterior

Give your vehicle a thorough wash — even if it’s going to be exposed to the elements during transport. A clean surface allows for a clear inspection of existing damage such as:

• Scratches
• Paint chips
• Dents

You’ll want all marks to be visible during the carrier’s pre-shipment condition report.

7. Take High-Quality Photos of the Car

Use your smartphone or camera to take detailed, high-resolution photos of:

• All four sides
• Close-ups of existing damage
• Wheels and roof
• Windshield and mirrors

Time-stamp the images and store them safely. These photos serve as evidence in case you need to file a damage claim after delivery.

8. Remove All Personal Belongings

Most open car carriers prohibit shipping vehicles loaded with personal items. This is due to:

• Weight limitations
• Theft risk (cars are exposed)
• Insurance policies that exclude non-vehicle contents

Prohibited items may lead to your vehicle being rejected for pickup.

9. Check Tire Pressure, Battery, and Fluid Leaks

Ensure your car is in operable condition, unless you’ve booked non-running vehicle transport. Key things to check:

• Tire pressure — prevents tire damage during loading/unloading
• Battery charge — required for starting the engine
• No visible leaks — oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks can be dangerous

If there are any mechanical issues, notify the transport company in advance.

10. Disable Alarm Systems

An active alarm during transport can cause delays and frustration for the driver. Be sure to:

• Turn off factory alarms
• Remove aftermarket alarm remotes from the car
• Provide instructions if it must remain active

11. Leave Only ¼ Tank of Gas

Your car only needs enough fuel to be moved on and off the trailer — around ¼ tank is ideal. A lower fuel level reduces:

• Overall vehicle weight
• Risk of leaks or spills

Overweight vehicles can cause compliance issues for the carrier.

📞 Working with Your Car Shipping Carrier

Once you’ve chosen a reputable open auto transport provider and prepped your vehicle, the next step is coordinating logistics and maintaining communication throughout the process.

Here’s how to build a smooth working relationship with your car shipping carrier.

12. Ask If Door-to-Door Delivery Is Available

Door-to-door service is the most convenient option — your car is picked up and delivered as close as possible to the addresses you specify. However, this may not always be feasible due to:

• Narrow streets
• Low-hanging trees or wires
• Gated communities

If door access is restricted, you may need to meet the driver at a nearby open area or consider terminal-to-terminal shipping, which is often cheaper but less convenient.

13. Provide Accurate Pickup and Drop-Off Information

Share all necessary details about the pickup and delivery locations, including:

• Apartment or suite numbers
• Access limitations (e.g., restricted hours, construction zones)
• Preferred nearby landmarks or open spaces

The more accurate your information, the fewer delays or reroutes your carrier will face.

14. Choose Flexible Pickup Windows

Remember, auto transport operates on estimated pickup and delivery windows, not fixed times. Factors such as:

• Traffic congestion
• Weather disruptions
• Multi-stop scheduling
  …can all impact timing.

A 2–3 day window is standard. Being flexible helps ensure a smoother experience and increases your chances of faster assignment to a carrier.

15. Stay in Touch During Transport

Reputable car shipping companies will provide:

• Tracking numbers
• Driver contact info
• Customer service hotlines

Use these tools to get regular updates and plan for arrival. Some companies even offer real-time GPS tracking via an app or web portal.

16. Understand the Bill of Lading (BOL)

The Bill of Lading (BOL) is more than just paperwork — it serves as:

• A transportation contract
• A condition report of your vehicle at pickup and delivery

Make sure to:

• Carefully inspect your car with the driver at both pickup and drop-off
• Note any damage, no matter how minor
• Take pictures if discrepancies arise

Do not sign the BOL unless you’re satisfied with the condition report.

📦 During Pickup Day

Pickup day marks the official start of your open auto transport journey. Being well-prepared and attentive during this stage can help prevent disputes, delays, and misunderstandings.

Here’s how to make sure everything starts off right.

17. Be On Time and Present

Whether you’re shipping from your home or meeting the carrier at a nearby lot, make sure:

• You’re available during the entire pickup window
• You have your ID and relevant documents ready
• You’re present to review and sign the Bill of Lading (BOL)

If you can’t be there, assign a trusted representative with written permission.

18. Don’t Rush the Carrier

Car carriers are responsible for loading multiple vehicles safely and securely onto the trailer. This process involves:

• Precision driving
• Securing the vehicle with straps or chains
• Double-checking clearance and balance

Rushing the process increases the risk of damage. Allow the driver the time they need to do the job correctly.

19. Confirm Any Pre-Existing Damage

Use the photos you took during vehicle prep to:

• Compare with the carrier’s inspection
• Ensure all visible dents, scratches, or blemishes are accurately recorded on the BOL
• Speak up if something is missed or misidentified

This documentation will be critical if a damage claim is needed later.

20. Ask the Driver Any Questions Before They Leave

Before the truck pulls away, confirm the following details:

• Estimated delivery timeframe
• Driver’s direct contact number (or dispatcher contact)
• What to do if you’re unavailable for delivery
• Procedure if delays or damages occur

Some companies provide real-time tracking, while others rely on scheduled updates — either way, make sure you’re clear on what to expect.

📍 Delivery Day Essentials

The final step in your open auto transport journey is just as important as the first. On delivery day, you’ll confirm that your vehicle arrived safely and in the same condition it left.

Take your time, stay observant, and follow these steps to wrap things up properly.

21. Inspect the Car in Daylight

Pick a well-lit location, preferably outdoors, to examine your vehicle thoroughly. Focus on:

• Bumpers and lower panels
• Doors, hood, and roof
• Wheels and mirrors

Natural light reveals imperfections better than artificial lighting, so daytime inspections are ideal.

22. Compare With Your Original Photos

Pull up the time-stamped images you took before pickup. Match each angle to verify:

• No new scratches, dents, or paint chips
• Windshield and windows are intact
• Tires and lights are in the same condition

This visual reference is your strongest defense if something looks off.

23. Don’t Sign the Final BOL Until You’re Satisfied

The final Bill of Lading (BOL) confirms that your vehicle was delivered in acceptable condition. Before signing:

• Note any new damage clearly on the BOL
• Ask the driver to initial or acknowledge the issues
• Take new photos of the damage

Once you sign without documenting damage, your ability to file a claim may be limited.

24. Contact the Company Immediately if There’s a Problem

If you find damage or other issues:

• Notify the carrier or broker right away
• File a formal damage claim within the company’s specified timeframe
• Provide photos, the signed BOL, and any other documentation

Prompt action increases your chances of a smooth resolution.

25. Consider Tipping the Driver

While not mandatory, tipping is a nice gesture if the driver:

• Communicated well
• Handled your car with care
• Delivered on time, despite challenges

Typical tip range:
💵 \$20–\$50 — more for long-distance routes or outstanding service.

🧠 Expert-Level Tips for First-Time Users

If you’re new to open auto transport, a few professional-level insights can make the difference between a bumpy ride and a smooth, cost-effective experience.

These advanced tips will help you navigate the logistics like a seasoned pro.

26. Avoid Booking During Peak Seasons (Summer/Snowbird Months)

The busiest times for car shipping are:

• May to August (summer relocations)
• December to January (snowbird migrations between the north and south)

During these windows:

• Prices can spike 20–30%
• Carrier availability may be limited
• Delays are more common

If possible, plan your shipment in shoulder seasons like early spring or fall for better pricing and flexibility.

27. Use a Transport Calculator to Estimate Cost

Many auto transport websites offer instant shipping calculators that factor in:

• Distance
• Vehicle size and weight
• Route popularity
• Time of year

This tool helps set realistic expectations and allows you to budget accordingly.

28. Confirm Whether the Carrier or a Broker Is Handling Your Transport

Understanding who you’re dealing with matters:

• A carrier owns the truck and handles the shipment directly.
• A broker acts as a middleman, finding available carriers on your behalf.

Role	Pros	Cons
Carrier	Direct contact, fewer surprises	Limited availability/routes
Broker	More options, faster matching	Less control over carrier quality

Ask for the carrier’s MC number before booking to verify legitimacy.

29. Ask About Multi-Car Discounts

If you’re shipping:

• Two family vehicles
• A fleet of company cars
• A vehicle alongside a friend’s or relative’s

…ask the provider about multi-vehicle rates. Many companies offer discounts for:

• Shared pickups/drop-offs
• Back-to-back bookings
• Family or fleet deals

Bundling cars on the same route can save you hundreds of dollars.

30. Don’t Stress Over Dust or Dirt on Arrival

Your car will be traveling hundreds or thousands of miles in open air, often behind other vehicles. It’s perfectly normal for it to arrive:

• Dusty
• Rain-spotted
• With road grime

This is not considered damage, and it’s easily fixed with a quick wash.

Pro tip: Schedule a detailing appointment the day after delivery for a spotless finish.

📈 Smart Shipping Add-ons and Considerations

To make the most of your open auto transport experience, consider a few strategic add-ons and essential precautions.

These final tips can help you avoid unexpected issues and improve peace of mind throughout the shipping process.

31. Inquire About GPS Tracking Services

Many modern carriers offer GPS-enabled tracking so you can monitor your car’s location in real time. This is especially helpful for:

• Cross-country moves
• Classic or high-value vehicles
• Customers with tight delivery windows

Even if GPS isn’t available, ask for regular updates via text or email.

32. Consider Weather Conditions

Open carriers expose your car to the elements. If your route includes:

• Snow-prone regions
• Heavy rain areas
• Dusty or gravel roads

…your vehicle may arrive dirty or with minor cosmetic wear.

In these cases, consider enclosed auto transport for added protection — especially for luxury or vintage cars.

33. Make Sure the Vehicle Is Street-Legal

If your car:

• Doesn’t start
• Has flat tires
• Lacks plates or registration
  …it may be considered non-operable, and special handling may be required.

Carriers need advance notice to bring:

• Winches
• Liftgates
• Extra personnel

Failure to disclose this can result in missed pickups or added fees.

34. Get a Written Contract, Not Just a Verbal Agreement

Always request a written service agreement that includes:

• Pickup and delivery windows
• Total cost (with breakdown)
• Insurance details
• Policies on delays and damages

Avoid companies that rely solely on phone or email confirmations.

35. Read the Fine Print for Cancellation Policies

Plans change — make sure you understand:

• Cutoff times for free cancellation
• Refund eligibility
• Rescheduling options

Some companies charge non-refundable deposits, while others allow free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup.

Quick Comparison: Open vs. Enclosed Auto Transport

Feature	Open Auto Transport	Enclosed Car Transport
Cost	More affordable	30–60% more expensive
Protection from Weather	Exposed	Fully protected
Best For	Standard vehicles	Classic/luxury/exotic
Availability	High	Limited
Delivery Time	Faster (more carriers)	Slower (fewer carriers)

Open Auto Transport – FAQ

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