If you’re considering shipping a vehicle, you no doubt want to make sure that an open carrier is a safe and secure transport method. Next to our homes, our vehicles are typically the second most valuable commodity we own, therefore it’s understandable that you want to make sure your auto will be safe during transport.
Is Open Car Shipping Safe?
If you’ll be shipping a standard auto, an open-air carrier is a very safe shipping method. However, if you have a very valuable car such as an antique, classic, or luxury vehicle, you’ll probably want to consider an enclosed carrier. We address the safety concerns you may have when shipping your car so you can make an informed decision about open-air transport.
Safe Drivers
First of all, you want assurance that the truck and trailer driver is experienced, knows how to handle all types of road conditions, and knows how to keep your car safe. Trustworthy auto carrier companies only hire trained truck and trailer drivers who are properly licensed. Many companies provide added training to make sure their drivers know how to provide extra care when loading, securing, and unloading vehicles of all models and sizes. A reputable auto transport company takes pride in delivering your car to its final destination in the same condition as when it was loaded.
Safety On the Trailer
When your vehicle is driven onto the carrier’s ramps, it’s then carefully secured in place with chains and/or a locking mechanism. Before shipping, all customers are required to make sure their vehicle doesn’t have any obvious leaks. Still, leaking fluid can happen and if you’re concerned that a car placed on the top level may leak fluid onto your car below, ask for your car to be placed on the top level. You’ll pay a bit more for this option, but you’ll be assured your car will be safe from the potential of other cars’ leaking fluids.
Safety From Road Debris
While an open carrier does expose your vehicle to the elements, because of the trailer’s construction, your car will be better protected up on the trailer than it would be if you were driving it on the highway yourself. Whenever a car is driven on the highway, small rocks and pebbles kicked up from the tires of vehicles in front and to the side can pit or crack your car’s windshield and finish. It’s extremely rare that this ever happens when your car is transported on an open carrier. That’s because open carriers are specifically designed with metal beams and bars that surround the cars, helping to protect them from road debris while on the highway.
Safety From Grime and Inclement Weather
Depending on the weather and road conditions, your car may pick up grime, dirt, and dust on the open carrier, but no more than it would if you were actually driving your vehicle on your own. If you’re planning to ship your car during the winter, again, your car would still be exposed to sleet, hail, rain, snow, and mud if you were driving it yourself. In fact, the undercarriage and wheels will remain far cleaner during open transport than they would if the car were driven on the highway.
Safety From Wear and Tear
You may not think of wear and tear as a safety issue, but undue wear and tear exposes your vehicle to hazards, damage, and depreciation. Auto shipping is undoubtedly one of the best ways to keep your car safe from hard wear and help maintain its value, especially if you’re moving it a long distance. The car’s odometer will be safe from added miles, the tires won’t be exposed to unnecessary wear, and the car’s finish won’t be as exposed to as many road hazards.
Safety From Vandalism and Theft
It’s easy to understand why you may be concerned about vandalism and theft. After all, your car is out of your hands on the transport trailer – who knows where the driver will stop and who will be snooping around your vehicle at those stops. Open carrier drivers are fully aware of the safety precautions that must be taken whenever the truck and trailer is stopped. The driver always makes sure no one has access to the vehicles except those who are authorized. At every stop, the driver inspects the trailer and vehicles to ensure all the cars are safe. When out on the road, the driver continually checks on the vehicles from the truck’s side mirrors.
Open Car Carrier Insurance
Even if you’re not worried about safety, accidents can happen when we least expect them so make sure the carriers you’re considering carry sufficient insurance. A reputable car transport company will maintain the proper insurance to cover any damage that is not your fault. But be sure to ask exactly what is and isn’t covered. Before your vehicle is loaded on the trailer, take photos from all sides. If damage does occur in transit, you’ll have a record of your auto’s condition right before it was loaded on the carrier.
Summing Up Open Car Transport Safety
Reliable and safer than many people think, every year millions of vehicles are shipped on open transport carriers all over the United States. In fact, most auto manufacturers use open-air transport because it’s safe and efficient. If you feel that open car transport is right for you and your vehicle, Caravan Auto Transport is the fastest and easiest way to find a fully licensed and insured auto carrier that is reputable and experienced. At Caravan Auto Transport, we vet all the auto transporters in our network to ensure they provide top-rated service. You’ll save time and stress searching for an open car transporter you can trust when you go with Caravan Auto Transport!
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It’s easy to get a fast estimate for shipping your car from A to Z anywhere in the U.S. Ask for a free quote from Caravan Auto Transport now!