Transporting vehicles with open carriers is one of the most efficient methods of transport, as compared to using enclosed cars which tend to be more costly. Open carrier transport has its limitations and restrictions, which can be a barrier to many. The two core concerns revolve around the size and weight restrictions for the vehicles being transported.
In this post, we will focus on the most common restrictions related to open carriers, what factors contribute to these restrictions, and how to confirm that your vehicle meets the standards for this transport method. Focusing on these issues will also show how companies like Car-Transport24 consider so many restrictions to ensure and enable safe and efficient transport of your vehicle.
What is an Open Carrier?
In describing open carrier, perhaps not many will understand what it is. The first thing we need to consider in trying to solve the problem is the definition of the word in question. An open carrier simply refers to a flatbed truck that has the ability to carry more than one vehicle simultaneously. The vehicles are arranged in two tiers, at the upper and lower levels, which also maximizes the number of cars being transported.
As remains the case with most people, open carriers are still the most preferred and economical option available. However, the very design that makes them economical also poses a threat to damage from external elements. Open vehicle carriers are exposed to the rain, snow, and direct sunlight while on the road.
Size and Weight Restrictions for Open Carriers
- Vehicle Size Limits
Most likely, the dimensions of the vehicle will determine the feasibility of transporting it using an open carrier—these carriers have specific size limitations which need to be met to facilitate efficient loading and safe transport of cargo. Primarily, these carriers observe the following size limitations:
– Length: Open carriers generally have a maximum permitted vehicle length in the range of 20 to 24 feet. Some vehicles tend to fall outside the standard open transport services offered due to special arrangements.
– Width: An open carrier length of approximately 7 to 8 feet is acceptable, including the vehicle’s side mirrors. Standard open carriers may not be able to accommodate vehicles exceeding this width; therefore, other transport options have to be sought.
– Height: Usually the maximum height of a vehicle on an open carrier does not exceed between 7 and 8 feet. Taller vehicles than this height may have to use different methods of transport to minimize damage to the carrier or vehicle during handling.
Vehicles that go beyond the specified height might require special arrangements like a low-boy trailer used for oversize vehicles or custom transport plans. Make sure to consult your shipping company about the predetermined dimensions of your vehicle.
- Vehicle Weight Limits
Weight of the vehicle is one of the most important factors. Open Carrier vehicles have a specific weight based on the total open payload space available on the truck, which is provided according to the number of vehicles being loaded onto the truck. Most standard open carriers tend to have a limit of between 7,500 to 10,000 pounds. Exceeding weight beyond these figures will incur exorbitant additional charges, as well as the possible need to use a different type of carrier.
– Standard Vehicles: In general, sedans and compact cars along with a majority of smaller sized SUVs fall under the category of these weight restrictions for open carriers.
– Heavy Duty Vehicles: A larger SUV and a truck, as well as other heavy duty vehicles, are likely to exceed the weight limitations of standard open carriers. They will likely require transportation via a specialized trailer.
Let us assume that you are transporting a light sedan. Most likely, you fit into the range of weight an open carrier will allow. However, an example of an altered vehicle that will most likely SUV along with a heavily modified His truck would need to arrange for the transport to be via flatbed shipping, or low boy trailers.
Factors That Affect Size And Weight Limitations
A number of factors set restrictions on the use of open air carriers for transporting a vehicle. Besides the obvious choices of the vehicle’s weight and measurements, its class, along with the carrier used plays an equally significant role.
- Vehicle Modifications
Your transport modes universally are attached with some body mods. In case any of the modifications comprise of custom body kits, aftermarket components, or body lift, it is highly likely that your vehicle exceed the dimensions alongside the weight limitations of open carrier transport. For seamless transportation ensure that you inform the transportation company about any alterations done to the automobile.
- Transporting Multiple Vehicles with One Carrier
When transporting several vehicles on a single open carrier, the weight and dimensions of vehicles in total require synergy. As open carriers are designed to transport several cars at once, the dimensions and total weight of the vehicles being transported will dictate how much room is available. If your vehicle is oversized or overweighed, it is likely that it will need to be transported alone or with a limited number of vehicles and trucks.
- Type and Availability of Carrier
The type of open carrier chosen for your shipment may impose specific weight and size limits to it. Most of the open carriers do observe the limit for dimensions, however, there are some open carriers that provide additional space or weight allowances that can accommodate larger vehicles or heavier loads. Discuss with your automobile shipping company regarding the type of carrier that best fulfills your needs and other pertinent factors.
Tips On How You Make Sure That Your Transport Fits An Open Carrier
- A Guide to Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipment
Avoiding surprises entails measuring the length, width, and height of a vehicle before scheduling transport. In addition, obtaining a vehicle’s fitting a specific transport measurement does provide peace of mind. However, if certain measurements fall within certain limits, it is advisable to check these boundaries with the car shipping company beforehand to ensure ease and relax complications.
- Payment of Vehicle Information’s
The request for transport cannot be made unless and until enough details of the make and model of the car as well as its dimensions are provided. The details assist the transport company in determining what type of open carrier schedule to slot into the scheduler that the vehicle fits.
- Search for the Accommodation Gaps
If a particular vehicle is classified out of standard disproportionate size or weight, it is possible for the vehicle to be fitted into specially designed transport like flatbed shipping and even low-boy trailers. Car Transport24 is one such many firms who do so that encourages heavier or larger vehicles used in their client’s daredusuons spend statement.
Conclusion
Open carrier options are popular and affordable so most vehicle owners will consider using it for shipping a car. However, it is equally important to determine whether the vehicle’s dimensions and weight fit the specifications of the carrier. An open carrier can hold vehicles with length; 20 – 24 ft, width; 7 – 8 ft, height; 7 – 8 ft and weight; 10,000 lbs. Specialized shipping considerations may need to be made if your vehicle does not fall within these limits.
A freight shipment needs to be made as straightforward as possible and ensuring that all details provided are correct will significantly aid in that goal. Talk about any vehicle modifications that you may require. One of the most important points to remember is to always engage a qualified car shipping professional for any concerns that arise. A case in point is Car-Transport24 who is a dependable car shipping provider capable of ensuring that your particular needs are properly addressed.
