As the most common delivery method used in auto transport services, open trailer auto transport is one of the two main types of transports, with enclosed trailer auto transport being the other one. If you look on the highway and see multiple cars being hauled by a truck, that's done so on an open trailer. Understanding just what open trailer auto transport entails, as well as who it would be most useful for, will help you to decide if this option is right for you. Keep in mind that A-1 Auto Transport offers full open trailer auto transport services!
How It's Done.
Open Trailer Auto Transport is done either through the use of a single vehicle trailer or a multi-car / double-decker trailer. Your car will be loaded onto a truck and then transported across the country. Your vehicle can either be delivered through door-to-door shipping or terminal-to-terminal shipping.
Because of the fact that a large truck will not be easily able to navigate through some residential areas, narrow roads, and areas with high elevations and steep hills, door-to-door shipping on an open trailer is usually reserved for a single vehicle trailer. If you decide to go with a multi-car trailer, for example, you will have to usually drop off the vehicle at an agreed upon location and then pick it up from a designated drop off point.
The Benefits.
There are a variety of benefits that are associated with open trailer auto transport. Check out the following:
- It's Cheaper.
Open trailer auto transport, as the most common method in car shipping, is around 50% cheaper compared to choosing an enclosed trailer. One of the reasons why it's cheaper is that open trailers run more frequently, meaning that the car shipping service relies on volume sales. Another reason is that the trucks are lighter compared to an enclosed trailer, meaning that is requires less fuel and thus, is cheaper.
- More Availability and Flexibility.
Since open trailer auto transport is more commonly used, there are more open trailers available, as car shipping companies make them a priority. You are thus more likely to be able to schedule your car to be shipped faster by choosing this option. You will also be able to have more of a selection of available dates and times, especially if you have to make last minute cancellations or changes.
- Transport Multiple Vehicles At Once.
You'll be able to more easily transport multiple vehicles at once with open trailer auto transport, as enclosed trailers, for the most part, have less capacity. This will save you money since transporting multiple vehicles at once is more economical and cost-effective.
The Drawbacks.
Despite all of the advantages that it offers, there are some disadvantages to choosing open trailer auto transport.
- Greater Likelihood of Damage.
Since your vehicle will be exposed to the weather and the elements at all times, there's a greater likelihood that your vehicle will experience some general damage. If the car is being transported during the winter, for example, it will possibly be exposed to snow, sleet, and ice rain. Nonetheless, transport companies take every precaution necessary to prevent damage and the driver will periodically check the vehicles as he or she stops to check out for any damage. Of course, with insurance, these damages will be covered.
- Less Secure.
By its very nature, enclosed trailer auto transport will provide more security. However, car shipping services will make sure that your vehicle is securely and safely loaded and fastened with open trailer auto transport.
- Can't Take Personal Items.
With open trailer auto transport, you won't be able to take any of your personal items with you in the vast majority of cases. If you're planning a big move, this can be inconvenient.
For most people, open trailer auto transport will be the most viable and most prudent choice to go with. If you have a luxury vehicle or an antique car though, you are probably better off paying more and going with an enclosed trailer for the added protection. Of course, always visit the Better Business Bureau's website at www.bbb.org to see if the company is credible or not. Regardless of which option you chose, A-1 Auto Transport can assist you!