2023 Open Auto Transport Regulations
May 17, 2023
Stay Informed About the Latest Regulations and Guidelines for Open Auto Transport in 2023

Did you know that almost 17 million vehicles are sold at retail each year? Shipping is a vital aspect of automobile sales, especially if you are selling and buying cars in separate countries. However, transporting a car might be a difficult task.
It can be intimidating to employ open auto transport for the first time due to a plethora of legal, logistical, and financial requirements. The following is a thorough guide that covers everything you need to know about 2023 open auto transport rules and regulations.
What Exactly Is Open Auto Transport?
Loading your vehicle onto an open carrier—a truck with no roof or sides—is what open auto shipping entails. Cars are typically put into the upper level of the carrier first. While your automobile may be exposed to the weather, open transportation for cars has a number of advantages, including:
Reasonably priced
Multiple automobiles can be transported using open carriers at the same time. As a result, they are frequently less expensive than other modes of vehicular transportation.
Faster Alternative
Consider open carriers if you need auto transport quickly. They are more efficient because one shipment may transport between 10 and 12 vehicles. This can help you save time when driving. Furthermore, open carriers are frequently available for transportation. As a result, it may shorten the time it takes for your automobile to be picked up and delivered.
Convenient
Are you looking to sell a car online? You might have to ship it to the buyer's address. Open auto carriers can assist you in shipping your vehicle to purchasers on short notice.
How to Get Ready for Open Car Transport?
Vehicle shipping can be a time-consuming and difficult operation, especially if you need to export an automobile out of state. Preparing your vehicle for open auto travel can help ensure a smooth and safe journey. Here are some preparation actions you can take:
Step 1: Choose a Reliable Carriers Open Transport
Look for an open auto transport firm with a proven track record of cross-country vehicle shipping. You can acquire references from family and friends. Also, read reviews to learn more about their reputation and how their clients rate them.
Step 2: Clean the Car
Before shipment, thoroughly clean the vehicle's inside and exterior. This will make inspecting for damage easier. If you're selling your automobile, you should also remove any personal items from it, such as chargers and other devices.
Step 3: Tighten Loose Parts
Most cars contain components, such as blind-spot mirrors, that are readily broken in shipment. Other interior accessories can slide around and damage your vehicle. Cable clips, cup holders, and other accessories are among them.
Make sure you secure or remove them. It will aid in the prevention of any destruction.
Step 4: Loading Inspection
Make sure to inspect the vehicle before transporting it. Take photos and videos of the interior and exterior of the car for documentation. The images and videos will be useful if there is damage during transit and you need to file a claim.
Step 5: Secure the Vehicle
When it comes to open carrier automobile shipment, the car must be secured. It keeps it from moving while in transportation. This lessens the possibility of dents and scratches. Look for a firm that goes above and above to safeguard your vehicle to ensure the greatest open auto transport solution for your vehicle.
Step 6: Calculate the Costs of Car Shipping
When transporting your car, you'll want to acquire an accurate pricing estimate. This is something that an automobile shipping calculator can assist you with. It allows you to enter information about your vehicle and shipment to generate a pricing estimate.
Rules and Regulations for Open Auto Transport
When employing open transport car shipping, there are a few norms and regulations to be aware of. While open carrier service providers are aware of these limitations, vehicle shipping customers may be unaware of them. Here are the open automobile transportation rules you should be aware of:
Have the Required Documentation
An active motor carrier operating authority is required for your open auto transport firm. They should also be FMCSA-registered.
Furthermore, they should have cargo and liability insurance. It will help to ensure the safety of your vehicle while in transit. As a client, the following documents are required:
- Transport Bill of Lading: A legal document that functions as your and the carrier's contract.
- Vehicle Identification Number: To demonstrate that you are the car's owner
- Insurance Documents: These comprises your own insurance policy as well as the insurance policy of the carrier.
- Photo identification: To confirm your identification and that you are the legal owner of the car
- Attorney in Fact: If you will not be present at the time of pickup or delivery, you can give a power of attorney authorizing someone else to act on your behalf.
Recognize the Size and Weight Restrictions
Every open transporter has size and weight limitations. Depending on the open carrier type being used, these constraints could change. To make sure your vehicle complies with the carrier's criteria, you need be aware of its weight and dimensions.
Visit the Carrier Safety Rating page
Choose a car shipping business with a respectable Carrier Safety Rating. This rating guarantees that the carrier is safe and adheres to all applicable auto transport regulations.
Additional Ways to Transport Your Vehicle
Other shipping options besides open carrier auto shipping are available when transporting your vehicle. These consist of:
Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed auto shipping is the best choice if you wish to ship a luxury vehicle. Even though it costs more, since these carriers have a roof and sides, your vehicle will be more protected.
Hot Shot Car Transport
A unique service called Hot Shot Car Transport is created to promptly deliver your vehicle to its location. With this service, a smaller truck is used, resulting in quicker transit times. For urgent shipments, they are frequently employed.
Door-to-Door Auto Transport
You can move your car from one place to another without driving it yourself by using a door-to-door auto transfer service. It will be picked up at your door by the carrier and delivered to the location of your choice.
Trusted Open Car Carrier for Professional Transportation
Need to ship your car? Look no further than Budget Auto Transporter. We offer a hassle-free and successful open vehicle transport experience complying with all open auto transport rules and regulations.