Military PCS Vehicle Shipping: Everything You Need to Know

A Complete Guide to Military Car Shipping During PCS Moves

Permanent Change of Station orders bring enough stress without worrying about how to get your vehicle to your new duty station. Whether you’re an active-duty service member, reservist, or military spouse, understanding your vehicle shipping options during a PCS move can save you time, money, and headaches.

Autos Mover proudly supports our military community with specialized auto transport services and exclusive military discounts. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your privately owned vehicle (POV) during a PCS relocation.

Understanding Military Vehicle Shipping Entitlements

The Department of Defense provides certain entitlements for shipping your POV during a PCS move. Here’s what you should know:

• CONUS to CONUS moves: The military typically does not cover vehicle shipping costs for moves within the continental United States. However, you can claim mileage reimbursement if you drive, or use a DITY (Do-It-Yourself) move allowance to offset transport costs.
• OCONUS moves: For overseas PCS assignments, the government will ship one POV at no cost through the Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) system.
• Multiple vehicles: If your household has more than one vehicle, you’ll need to arrange and pay for additional vehicle shipments privately.

Since most CONUS PCS moves require service members to handle their own vehicle transport, finding an affordable and reliable auto shipping company is essential.

How DITY Moves Apply to Vehicle Shipping

A Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly known as a DITY move, allows you to arrange your own relocation and receive reimbursement from the government. While this program is primarily designed for household goods, you can strategically use your PPM allowance to help cover vehicle transport costs.

Here’s how it works:

• The military pays you a percentage of what it would cost the government to move your belongings
• You arrange your own transportation, including vehicle shipping
• The difference between the government’s estimated cost and your actual expenses becomes your profit
• Keep all receipts from your auto transport company for tax and reimbursement purposes

By choosing an affordable carrier like Autos Mover, you can maximize your PPM reimbursement while ensuring your vehicle arrives safely.

Popular Military PCS Vehicle Shipping Routes

Military bases are spread across the country, and PCS moves create consistent demand on certain routes. Some of the most common military vehicle shipping corridors include:

• Fort Liberty (NC) to Fort Hood (TX) — approximately 1,200 miles
• Joint Base Lewis-McChord (WA) to Fort Stewart (GA) — approximately 2,800 miles
• Camp Pendleton (CA) to Camp Lejeune (NC) — approximately 2,500 miles
• Norfolk Naval Base (VA) to Naval Station San Diego (CA) — approximately 2,700 miles
• Fort Bragg to any East Coast base — distances vary

Because drivers frequently travel these military routes, you may find better availability and competitive pricing when shipping between major installations.

Required Documents for Military Vehicle Shipping

Having your paperwork organized will speed up the booking and pickup process. Prepare the following documents:

• PCS orders: Your official orders verify your military status and may qualify you for discounts
• Vehicle registration: Current registration in your name or your spouse’s name
• Valid military ID: CAC or dependent ID card
• Proof of insurance: Active auto insurance policy covering the vehicle
• Power of Attorney: If your spouse or representative is handling the shipment on your behalf
• Vehicle title: Some carriers may request this for verification

Choosing the Right Transport Type for Your PCS Move

Your vehicle’s value and your budget will determine the best shipping method:

Open Transport

Open auto transport is the most popular and cost-effective option for military PCS moves. Your vehicle ships on a standard open carrier alongside other cars. This method is perfectly safe for daily drivers, trucks, and SUVs.

Enclosed Transport

If you own a luxury vehicle, classic car, or high-performance sports car, enclosed transport provides maximum protection. Your car travels inside a fully enclosed trailer, shielded from weather and road debris.

Door-to-Door Service

Door-to-door auto transport is especially convenient for military families. The carrier picks up your vehicle at your current residence and delivers it directly to your new address, eliminating the hassle of dropping off or picking up at a terminal.

Military Discounts on Auto Transport

Many auto transport companies offer military discounts as a token of appreciation for your service. At Autos Mover, we provide exclusive discounts for active-duty military, veterans, and their families. To receive your military discount:

• Mention your military status when requesting a quote
• Provide your PCS orders or military ID for verification
• Ask about additional savings for multiple vehicle shipments

Combining military discounts with strategic booking timing can result in significant savings on your PCS vehicle shipment.

Timing Your Military Vehicle Shipment

PCS season runs from May through September, which coincides with peak auto transport demand. To get the best rates and availability:

• Book early: As soon as you receive your PCS orders, start getting quotes. Booking three to four weeks in advance gives you the best options.
• Consider off-peak timing: If your report date allows flexibility, shipping in early spring or late fall can mean lower prices.
• Plan around your report date: Build in a buffer of several days before your report date in case of transit delays.
• Use expedited shipping: If you receive short-notice orders, expedited service ensures faster pickup and delivery.

Preparing Your Vehicle for a PCS Shipment

Before the carrier arrives, prepare your vehicle just as you would for any auto transport:

• Remove all personal belongings and military equipment from the vehicle
• Clean the exterior so pre-existing damage is visible during inspection
• Photograph the vehicle from all angles for your records
• Ensure the vehicle is in running condition with adequate tire pressure
• Leave the gas tank between one-quarter and one-half full
• Remove or secure any aftermarket accessories like roof racks or CB antennas
• Disable aftermarket alarm systems and remove toll transponders

Shipping Motorcycles and Additional Vehicles

Many military members own motorcycles in addition to their primary vehicle. Motorcycle shipping is available through Autos Mover and can often be coordinated alongside your car shipment for added convenience. Multi-vehicle discounts may apply when shipping more than one vehicle to the same destination.

Insurance and Claims During Military Moves

Reputable auto transport companies carry cargo insurance that covers your vehicle during transit. Before booking, verify:

• The carrier’s insurance coverage limits
• Whether the policy covers both collision and comprehensive damage
• The claims process and timeline for resolution
• Whether your personal auto insurance provides any additional transit coverage

At pickup and delivery, carefully inspect your vehicle and note any discrepancies on the Bill of Lading. Your pre-shipment photos serve as critical evidence if a claim becomes necessary.

Let Autos Mover Handle Your PCS Vehicle Shipping

Your PCS move involves enough logistics without adding vehicle shipping stress. Autos Mover specializes in military auto transport and understands the unique timelines, requirements, and budget constraints that come with military relocations.

From open transport to enclosed shipping and door-to-door delivery, we make PCS vehicle shipping simple, affordable, and reliable.

Get a free quote at Autos Mover or call (279) 300-3808 today to receive your military discount!