Military life comes with frequent moves and fast timelines. When you’re issued orders for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), you’re expected to relocate your household, and often your vehicle, to a new duty station. While the military provides assistance with many parts of the move, PCS car shipping is one area that often leaves families with questions.
This guide explains how military auto transport works during a PCS, what is and is not covered by the government, and how families typically handle car shipping to make the process smoother.
What Is a PCS Move?
A PCS, or Permanent Change of Station, is an official relocation of an active-duty service member from one duty location to another. PCS orders may involve moves within the continental United States (CONUS), to an overseas duty station (OCONUS), or back stateside from an international assignment.
PCS orders typically include:
- A specific report date to the new location
- Authorization for the movement of household goods
- Possible travel entitlements and allowances for the service member and dependents
While most PCS orders allow the government to coordinate and fund household goods shipment, vehicle transport is not always automatically included, especially for CONUS moves. That is why understanding how PCS car shipping works is so important.
Does the Military Pay to Ship My Car?
Whether or not the government covers your vehicle transport depends on where you are being assigned.
CONUS (Within the Continental U.S.)
In most CONUS-to-CONUS moves, the Department of Defense does not pay to ship a personally owned vehicle (POV). Service members are typically expected to drive their vehicles to the new duty station.
However, exceptions can be made if:
- The service member has a medical condition preventing them from driving
- The move is part of a contingency or hardship assignment
- The member is ordered to an overseas station en route
In these rare cases, the government may authorize one POV to be shipped domestically.
OCONUS (Overseas Assignments)
For most OCONUS assignments, such as Germany, Japan, South Korea, or Guam, the government does cover the shipment of one POV per service member. The vehicle must meet specific eligibility requirements based on size, emissions, and road regulations of the host country.
The government will typically:
- Pay for shipment of one POV
- Provide a designated Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) for drop-off
- Handle customs paperwork and coordination
Any additional vehicles must be shipped at the service member’s expense.
What the Government Does Not Cover
Even when POV shipping is authorized, there are limits. Here is what is not included in your military benefits:
- Shipping of a second personal vehicle
- Door-to-door vehicle delivery unless specified and paid privately
- Expedited transport or preferred scheduling
- Extra insurance beyond the standard coverage
- Modifications or non-operational vehicles
If your situation requires more flexibility, speed, or coverage than the military program offers, working with a private military auto transport company is often the best solution.
How Military Families Typically Handle PCS Car Shipping
PCS moves are complex and fast-paced. In many cases, families choose to work with a professional auto transport company to move their vehicle, especially when traveling with children, flying to the new location, or coordinating multiple vehicles.
Here is how military families typically approach PCS vehicle transport:
1. Decide If Driving or Shipping Is Best
Driving can add wear and tear, take extra days, and increase stress during an already demanding move. If the distance is long or if the service member is traveling ahead of the family, shipping the vehicle becomes a more attractive option.
Many families find that the cost of military auto transport is justified by the time and energy saved.
2. Coordinate with Your Moving Timeline
PCS orders usually come with tight reporting windows. Military-friendly transport companies understand these constraints and offer flexible pickup options to help service members stay on schedule. Booking early ensures access to transport windows that align with your PCS schedule.
3. Choose Open or Enclosed Transport
Open carrier shipping is more affordable and suitable for most vehicles. Enclosed transport offers added protection and may be preferred for high-value vehicles or classic cars. Most military families opt for open transport due to cost and availability.
4. Prepare the Vehicle for Transport
Transport companies will provide guidance, but generally you should:
- Clean the vehicle
- Remove personal items
- Leave a quarter tank of gas
- Inspect for existing damage
- Provide necessary documents such as registration and insurance
A smooth pickup depends on readiness and clear communication with the driver.
Military Auto Transport Tips
If you are planning a PCS move and considering car shipping, follow these tips to protect your vehicle and ensure a smooth process:
- Book early. As soon as you receive orders, start gathering quotes and securing your spot. The more notice a company has, the better they can align with your timeline.
- Ask about military discounts. Many auto transport providers offer discounted rates for active-duty service members and veterans. Be sure to provide your PCS orders as verification.
- Confirm insurance coverage. Reputable transporters are required to carry cargo insurance. Ask for proof of coverage and understand your policy limits before signing the agreement.
- Stay informed. Ask for tracking options or dispatcher contact information. Good communication reduces stress and keeps you updated while the vehicle is in transit.
- Use a trusted provider. Not all car shipping companies understand the specific needs of military families. Choose a company with a proven history of handling PCS moves, and check reviews or testimonials from other service members.
Why Work with a Military Auto Transport Company?
PCS moves are often unpredictable and require flexibility. Military auto transport companies specialize in helping families navigate the unique demands of military relocation.
They understand:
- The tight timelines associated with orders
- The importance of flexibility during household goods shipment
- How to communicate effectively with both service members and spouses
- The requirements for base drop-offs or alternate delivery points
Most importantly, these providers have experience working around the logistics of government-mandated schedules, processing paperwork, and coordinating with other moving vendors. This understanding makes them ideal partners during a busy transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship two cars during my PCS?
Only one vehicle is covered by the government for most overseas moves. Any additional vehicle must be shipped at your own expense.
What if my car does not run?
Non-operational vehicles require special equipment and handling. Be sure to mention this during booking, as it may increase your transport cost.
How far in advance should I schedule car shipping?
Ideally, book your transport two to four weeks before your required move date. This allows time to coordinate with pack-out schedules and travel arrangements.
Can the transporter pick up my car from base housing?
In some cases, yes. If the transporter cannot access the base, they will arrange pickup at a nearby off-base location that is secure and accessible for loading.
What if my orders change at the last minute?
Military auto transporters are familiar with changing schedules. If you need to delay, reschedule, or redirect delivery, most companies will work with you to adjust the plan.
Contact American Car Transporters for PCS Support
Whether you are relocating across the country or shipping your vehicle overseas, American Car Transporters is here to help military families navigate every step of the auto transport process.
Our team understands the pressures of military life and the urgency that comes with PCS orders. We offer flexible pickup windows, real-time updates, military discounts, and unmatched support to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time, wherever duty calls.
Get in touch today for a personalized quote and expert guidance from a company that proudly serves those who serve.
Contact American Car Transporters to schedule your PCS car shipping with confidence.
