When it comes to shipping your vehicle across the country, open car transport is one of the most popular and cost-effective methods. Whether you’re moving to a new city, buying a car from out of state, or need to transport a vehicle for another reason, affordable car shipping can save you time and money. However, finding the best deal on open car transport requires some research, planning, and smart decision-making.
In this article, we’ll share tips and strategies for how to find car transport discounts and get the best value when choosing open car transport for your next shipment.
What is Open Car Transport?
Open car transport is the most common method of shipping vehicles. In this option, your car is loaded onto an open trailer along with other vehicles. While the vehicle is exposed to the elements, it is securely strapped and transported safely from one location to another. Open car transport is typically the most affordable option for vehicle shipping, making it an ideal choice for those looking to save on shipping costs without sacrificing reliability.
Benefits of Open Car Transport
Before we dive into how to get the best deal on open car transport, let’s quickly look at the key benefits of using this service:
- Cost-Effective: Open car transport is generally cheaper than enclosed auto transport, as it involves fewer specialized requirements.
- Widely Available: Most auto transport companies offer open car transport, making it easier to find a provider.
- Efficient: Open trailers can transport several cars at once, which helps lower the cost for each individual vehicle.
Now that you understand the advantages of open car transport, let’s explore how you can find the best deal.
1. Get Multiple Quotes
One of the best ways to find car transport discounts is to get multiple quotes from different transport companies. By comparing quotes from several providers, you can get a clear idea of the average cost for shipping your vehicle and identify the companies offering the best value.
Why It Works:
- Each transport company has different pricing structures, so you might find significant differences in price for the same service.
- Some companies may offer promotions, discounts, or flexible pricing options depending on your shipping needs.
When requesting quotes, make sure to provide consistent information (e.g., car make/model, pick-up and delivery locations, and preferred shipping dates) to ensure the quotes are comparable.
2. Book in Advance for Lower Rates
Booking your open car transport service well in advance is one of the most effective ways to secure a deal. Many transport companies offer discounts for customers who book early, especially if the shipment is scheduled during off-peak seasons (e.g., winter months). By planning ahead, you can lock in better pricing and avoid last-minute rush charges.
Why It Works:
- Off-peak seasons like fall and winter are generally slower for auto transport companies, which can translate to lower rates.
- Booking ahead allows you to avoid higher costs during peak shipping periods, such as the summer months or holidays when demand is high.
3. Look for Discounts or Promotions
Many auto transport companies offer special promotions or discounts to attract new customers or retain existing ones. These discounts can help you save money on your open car transport shipment. Discounts may be offered to:
- First-time customers
- Military personnel or veterans
- Students or senior citizens
- Bulk shipments or corporate moves
Check the transport company’s website, call them directly, or inquire about any available discounts when requesting a quote. Additionally, some companies may offer seasonal deals or flash promotions, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for these offers.
Why It Works:
- Discounts can significantly lower the price of shipping, helping you find a more affordable solution for transporting your car.
- Promotions are often easy to access, either through applying a code or mentioning a specific discount when booking your service.
4. Choose a Flexible Shipping Date
If you have some flexibility with your shipping date, you can often secure a better deal. Open car transport companies may offer lower rates if you are flexible with your pick-up and delivery window. Shipping during peak demand seasons or requesting urgent delivery can increase the overall cost.
By being flexible, you allow the transport company to work around their schedule, which could help them consolidate shipments and reduce the cost for all parties involved.
Why It Works:
- Flexibility enables transport companies to plan more efficient routes, possibly lowering shipping costs.
- Choosing a broader time window may allow the company to find the most cost-effective way to ship your car.
5. Check for Hidden Fees
When looking for the best deal on open car transport, always read the fine print and ask about any potential hidden fees. Some transport companies might quote a low initial price but then tack on additional charges for services such as:
- Fuel surcharges
- Storage fees
- Insurance upgrades
Make sure the price you are quoted is comprehensive and includes everything you need. If there are any extra costs, ask upfront so there are no surprises down the line.
Why It Works:
- You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and can avoid unexpected fees that could increase the total cost of your open car transport shipment.
- Transparent pricing makes it easier to compare providers and find the most cost-effective option.
6. Consider Shipping Multiple Vehicles
If you need to ship more than one car, you can often get a discount for shipping multiple vehicles on the same transport. Many open car transport companies offer bulk shipping discounts or reduced rates for families, businesses, or anyone needing to transport more than one car.
This is particularly helpful for people moving multiple vehicles or companies relocating employees and their cars. Be sure to ask the company about any available multi-vehicle shipping discounts.
Why It Works:
- Bulk discounts can reduce the overall cost per vehicle, making it a cost-effective solution if you’re transporting more than one car.
7. Choose a Reputable but Affordable Transport Provider
While price is important, it’s essential to choose a reliable and trustworthy transport provider for your open car transport. While it may be tempting to opt for the lowest quote, ensure that the company you choose has a solid reputation for delivering cars safely and on time.
Look for customer reviews, ratings, and any accreditations (such as Better Business Bureau certification) to ensure you’re working with a reputable company that provides both value and quality service.
Why It Works:
- Choosing a reputable provider ensures your car will be shipped safely and efficiently, saving you from potential damage or delays.
- Quality service is just as important as affordability, and a good provider will offer transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Finding the best deal on open car transport involves a little research, flexibility, and a bit of strategy. By getting multiple quotes, booking in advance, looking for discounts, and being flexible with your shipping dates, you can find an affordable car shipping solution that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Make sure to choose a reputable company with a strong track record to ensure that your vehicle is transported safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. If your car is to be scrapped, look for a company for buying scrap cars. See some different payment options like pay per card, Solana and others.