Why More Americans Are Choosing Open Carriers in 2025
The U.S. auto transport industry has witnessed a notable shift in 2025 — more Americans than ever are choosing open car carriers over enclosed options. But what’s driving this trend? Is it purely financial, or are other factors influencing the move?
At Transportvibe, we’ve tracked thousands of shipments, reviewed customer feedback, and analyzed pricing trends to uncover why open auto transport is becoming the top choice for everyday vehicle shipping in the United States.
This blog breaks down the rise of open carriers in 2025, highlighting benefits, common use cases, long-tail keyword trends, and expert advice to help you decide if open shipping is right for you.
Table of Contents
- What Is Open Carrier Auto Transport?
- How Open Carriers Work in 2025
- Key Reasons Americans Prefer Open Transport
- Cost Comparison: Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping
- Is Open Carrier Safe for My Vehicle?
- Top Vehicles Shipped on Open Carriers
- When Not to Use Open Transport
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Final Thoughts
What Is Open Carrier Auto Transport?
Open carrier transport involves shipping your vehicle on a trailer that is not enclosed, usually exposed to road debris, weather, and the elements. These are the most common transport trucks you see on highways carrying multiple vehicles stacked in rows.
In 2025, about 80% of all car shipments in the U.S. are still done via open transport, making it the industry standard.
How Open Carriers Work in 2025
Open carriers typically haul 7 to 10 vehicles per load. The structure is lightweight, which improves gas mileage for the hauler and reduces overall costs.
Advancements in 2025 include:
- Improved suspension systems that reduce vehicle movement
- Real-time GPS tracking for better delivery transparency
- Digital paperwork systems that speed up hand-offs and condition reports
At Transportvibe, we’ve seen that newer open carriers are safer and more tech-integrated than ever before.
Key Reasons Americans Prefer Open Transport
1. Affordability
Open carriers are significantly cheaper than enclosed ones — often by 30–60%.
Example:
- Shipping a sedan from CA to NY:
- Open: ~$1,100
- Enclosed: ~$1,700
2. Availability & Faster Scheduling
Open carriers are more common on U.S. roads, so customers find it easier to get quicker pickup and delivery dates.
3. Sufficient for Most Vehicle Types
Unless you’re transporting a luxury, exotic, or classic vehicle, open shipping is perfectly safe and widely used.
4. Wider Network Coverage
Open carriers operate on more routes and are easier to book for remote areas.
5. Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Preference
Lighter trailers use less fuel — making open transport a more eco-conscious choice for 2025.
Cost Comparison: Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping
| Route | Open Carrier | Enclosed Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| NY to FL | $850 | $1,400 |
| CA to TX | $1,050 | $1,700 |
| IL to AZ | $1,100 | $1,800 |
Open shipping remains the most budget-friendly option in 2025.
Is Open Carrier Safe for My Vehicle?
Yes — open transport is very safe for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Carriers are required to:
- Be licensed by the FMCSA
- Carry cargo and liability insurance
- Conduct pre- and post-shipping vehicle inspections
When to Rethink Open Transport
Choose enclosed transport if:
- You own a high-value luxury or exotic car
- Your car has rare or delicate bodywork
- You require protection from dust, debris, and weather
Top Vehicles Shipped on Open Carriers
- Sedans (e.g., Toyota Camry, Honda Accord)
- SUVs and Crossovers (e.g., Ford Escape, Subaru Outback)
- Pickup trucks under 7,000 lbs
- Motorcycles (secured with wheel chocks)
- College student cars
- Dealer and auction vehicles
Bonus Stat: Over 2 million college students chose open shipping for seasonal moves in 2024–2025.
When Not to Use Open Transport
Skip open shipping if:
- You’re transporting during extreme weather seasons
- Your vehicle needs zero exposure to the elements
- You’re concerned about theft in certain areas
Transportvibe Tip: Always compare both options based on your budget, vehicle type, and destination.
Common Concerns About Open Carrier Shipping
Is open car transport covered by insurance?
Yes, all FMCSA-certified carriers must provide cargo insurance. Always ask for a Certificate of Insurance before booking.
How long does open carrier car shipping take?
On average, cross-country open car transport takes 5–10 days, depending on route and availability.
Is open auto transport safe for my car?
Yes, it’s safe for standard vehicles like sedans, SUVs, and trucks. However, luxury or classic cars may benefit from enclosed shipping.
Can I leave items inside my car during open shipping?
Most carriers do not allow personal items inside the car. If permitted, items are not covered by insurance.
Is open shipping better for short-distance moves?
Yes, for regional or local moves, open carriers are often quicker and cheaper to arrange than enclosed trailers.
Summary and Recommendation
Open carrier auto transport remains the go-to method for Americans in 2025 for good reason: it’s affordable, widely available, and safe for most standard vehicles. Whether you’re relocating for work, sending a car to your college-aged child, or buying from out of state, open transport is likely the most efficient and cost-effective option.
At Transportvibe, we recommend comparing both open and enclosed options before booking, but for the majority of everyday drivers, open shipping offers unbeatable value.
Get a Free Open Carrier Shipping Quote and see how much you could save on your next move.
