Open Car Transport
The most popular, budget-friendly way to ship a car. Your vehicle rides on a multi-car open carrier with fully insured, vetted drivers.
What is open car transport?
Open car transport means your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air, multi-level carrier — the same double-decker trucks that deliver brand-new cars to dealerships every day. It's how roughly nine out of ten vehicles in the United States get shipped, and it's the most cost-effective way to move a car from Point A to Point B.
Because open carriers hold 7–10 vehicles at once, the cost per car is lower and there are far more trucks available on any given lane. That translates to lower prices and faster pickup for you.
Who open auto transport is right for
- Daily drivers, sedans, SUVs, trucks and minivans
- Relocations, college moves and job transfers
- Online car purchases and dealer deliveries
- Snowbirds heading south for the season
- Anyone who wants the best price and fastest pickup
Is open transport safe?
Yes. Vehicles are secured with wheel straps or soft tie-downs, carriers are inspected before dispatch, and every truck in the Horizon network carries verified cargo insurance. Your car is exposed to the same weather it sees in a parking lot — nothing more. Damage on open carriers is rare, and when it does occur, our claims team handles it for you at no cost.
Open transport with Horizon includes
- Door-to-door pickup and delivery anywhere in the U.S.
- Verified carrier insurance up to $250,000
- Photo-documented inspection at pickup and delivery
- A dedicated coordinator with a direct phone line
- Pickup typically within 1–5 days of booking
Open vs. enclosed: a quick comparison
| Open carrier | Enclosed carrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lowest | +40–60% |
| Weather exposure | Yes (like normal driving) | None |
| Availability | Highest | Fewer trucks, slightly longer lead time |
| Best for | Daily drivers, SUVs, trucks | Luxury, exotic, classic, show cars |
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Get Instant Quote (408) 688-5807Open Car Transport FAQ
How many cars ride on an open carrier?
Most open carriers hold 7–10 vehicles across two decks. Smaller 3-car hotshot trailers are also common for shorter regional routes.
Will my car get dirty?
It may pick up some road dust or rain, the same as any road trip. A quick wash on arrival is all most customers need.
Can I ship an SUV or lifted truck on an open carrier?
Yes. Oversized vehicles ship on open carriers all the time. We just need accurate dimensions and lift height so we assign a truck with the right clearance.
Other auto transport services
Enclosed Auto Transport
Hard-sided, climate-aware protection for luxury, exotic, classic and collector vehicles. Zero exposure to weather or road debris.
Learn moreDoor-to-Door Service
We pick up and deliver as close to your front door as the truck can legally and safely get. No terminals, no extra trips.
Learn moreExpedited Shipping
Need it moved now? Priority dispatch gets a carrier assigned fast, with pickup often within 24–48 hours.
Learn moreSnowbird Transport
Seasonal shipping between northern states and Florida, Arizona, Texas and Southern California. Book early for the best rates.
Learn moreMilitary & PCS Moves
Discounted, flexible vehicle shipping for active-duty service members, veterans and their families during PCS relocations.
Learn moreClassic & Exotic
White-glove handling for high-value cars: enclosed trailers, liftgate loading, soft straps and photo documentation at every step.
Learn moreCross-Country Moves
Coast-to-coast auto transport from California to anywhere in the U.S. — and back. Door-to-door, typically in 5–9 days.
Learn moreReady to ship your vehicle?
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