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Military car shipping services

Enjoy stress-free military PCS car shipping with WeShipCars

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Military car shipping

how does military pcs vehicle shipping work

How does military PCS vehicle shipping work?

Military PCS (Permanent Change of Station) vehicle shipping involves a military car shipping company transporting a service member's car when they relocate to a new duty station. The company handles the entire process, ensuring the vehicle is picked up, transported, and delivered safely to the new location.

While military vehicle shipping is similar to standard auto transport, some key differences exist. For example, car shipping discounts and better pricing options are possible for military customers. Military car shipping companies must be familiar with shipping to and from military bases.

The pick-up and delivery locations are usually outside the military base for security reasons.

Does the military ship your car for free?

Yes, the military may ship one privately owned vehicle (POV) for free during a Permanent Change of Station (PSC) move for active-duty members. This benefit covers the cost of transporting the car to the new duty station, but additional vehicles or specific circumstances might incur expenses.

Relocation is part of modern-day military service life and can happen every few years. Part of any relocation is transporting your vehicle, which can be a logistical nightmare. Fortunately, generous allowances and benefits are available to help subsidize the cost of car shipping for military personnel.

The rules of Personal Change of Station (PCS) mean military branches pay to ship one personal vehicle for a service member. Most military members are typically eligible for the allowance but must meet various requirements.

One year is a minimum time-in-service requirement at a current duty station before receiving PCS orders. It’s usually 12 months. The allowance also depends on whether you’re moving within the continental United States (CONUS) or heading overseas (OCONUS).

The government pays the total cost of military car shipping for domestic relocations in the CONUS. The allowance's limit depends on a member’s rank and dependency status. You must use an approved contractor, and compliance with specific documentation guidelines for weight tickets, inspection reports, and other elements is essential.

International relocations may also be fully subsidized. However, different shipping mechanisms are used depending on costs and restrictions in the host country. All arrangements must go through approved channels if you want to take advantage of any military-discounted rates.
does the military ship your car for free
are there car shipping military discounts

Are there car shipping military discounts?

Many auto transport companies offer military discounts for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. These discounts can reduce the cost of shipping a vehicle during a PCS move or other relocations, providing financial relief and making the process more affordable.

WeShipCars offers military car shipping discounts for active duty, veterans, Reserve, National Guard, and military dependents. Our car shipping experts are happy to answer any questions you may have
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Customer experiences, in their own words:

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Why military personnel prefer military vehicle shipping:

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Simple pick-up and delivery

Let us know your preferred vehicle pick-up and delivery locations, and we’ll find a carrier who can follow your directions. We have a list of fully vetted and insured carriers we can call on. They transport your vehicle safely and securely to its final destination easily and hassle-free.

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Military discounts

WeShipCars offers military vehicle transport discounts for active duty, veterans, Reserves, National Guard, and military dependents. Speak with our car shipping experts to learn more.

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You can ship personal items

You are permitted to keep a maximum of two pieces of luggage with personal belongings in the trunk of your vehicle at no extra cost. Certain items are unlawful to trust, so check with our car shipping experts.

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Understanding the needs of military customers

We know how stressful it can be when you receive your PSC orders and that there’s often no time to waste. We can take care of your family vehicles, allowing you to concentrate on your family’s transition to your new home.

Which auto transport service is preferable for military personnel?

open car transport

Open car transport

Regarding car shipping for military personnel, we recommend open car transport. It’s incredibly convenient because we can arrange shipping to and from any location in the United States, including military bases. We know that timing is often critical for our military customers, and we can offer an additional option for a guaranteed car pick-up on a day when you’re available.

Why choose WeShipCars for your military vehicle shipping?

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Zero upfront payment
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Free cancellation
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Full insurance coverage
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Fully vetted and insured car shipping carriers
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Customizable services & dedicated car shipping experts
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24/7 customer support

How do military vehicle transport services work?

Car shipping for military relocation is a straightforward service to arrange. We ship your vehicle(s) in three easy steps:
    1.
  • Get a quote and book your order: Start by requesting a quote and securing your booking. Use our free instant online quote calculator to get pricing in seconds, or speak directly with our shipping experts by calling (708) 300-0063 or connecting via live chat.
    • 2.
  • We pick up your vehicle: We assign a fully insured and vetted military vehicle transport carrier to collect your vehicle from the safest and closest legal location. For military bases, pick-up and delivery can be arranged directly outside the base.
    • 3.
  • We deliver your vehicle: Before arrival, the carrier will contact you with an estimated delivery time. Upon arrival, inspect your vehicle to confirm its condition, then sign to complete the delivery.
how do military vehicle transport services work

step 1

Get a free, instant quote and book your order

Kick things off by getting your car shipping quote. We’ve made it simple with a free instant car transport cost calculator on our website. Do you prefer a more personalized touch? With phone or live chat, you can speak with our car shipping experts directly.

The quickest and easiest way to get a quote is by using our online calculator. Just provide some basic information to receive your quote almost immediately. Enter the pick-up and delivery city or ZIP code, the year, make, and model of your vehicle, its condition, how many cars you need to ship, and the type of transport you wish to book. If you need expedited auto transport, now’s the time to specify.

You’ll also need to let us know the date when your car is ready for transport. This date is known as the First Available Pick-Up Date in the auto transport industry.

We’ll also need your email address and phone number to send you a copy of the quote and verify your identity.

You’ll receive an all-inclusive quote with no hidden charges. And don’t worry; you’re not obligated to book right away.

Your quote is valid for 14 days, and if you decide to book later, there’s no need to re-enter your details. Our system securely records your information, making it easy to recalculate the cost.

If you’re unhappy with the price, take advantage of our price match promise. Contact our car shipping experts and allow us to match a direct competitor’s price.

Ready to book? Click the link in your email to confirm and complete your booking. Alternatively, you can secure the fastest auto transport service by calling (708) 300-0063 or using live chat. Best of all, we don’t require any upfront payment at this stage.

If you change your mind or circumstances, inform us immediately. Cancellation is free before we schedule your shipment. If we’ve already assigned a carrier, we’ll keep any charged amount up to $199 and refund the difference.

Upon confirming all your shipment details, you can choose a payment option. The first option is cash on delivery (COD). The second is to pay in full when booking using a credit or debit card or Zelle payment.
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Car shipping vehicle pick up step 2

step 2

We pick up your vehicle

Your assigned carrier reaches out before arrival to ensure someone is available to release your vehicle. In cases where you're unavailable, you can nominate a trustworthy individual over 18 to handle the handover – whether it's a neighbor, family member, friend, colleague, or someone you rely on.

Additionally, the carrier double-checks that the designated pick-up location is accessible for their larger trucks and trailers. If there are any parking restrictions, access challenges, low-hanging obstacles like trees, or overhead powerlines at the location, the driver assists you in identifying a more suitable alternative nearby. Such locations could include a nearby parking lot, a wider street, or even your workplace.

Upon the carrier's arrival, you and the driver thoroughly inspect your vehicle to identify any pre-existing damages or imperfections. It's essential to document these details accurately on the Bill of Lading (BOL), which you complete using traditional paper documentation or through a carrier's digital application.

Once you’ve finalized the necessary paperwork, you can securely hand over the keys to the carrier and bid a temporary farewell to your vehicle. Rest assured, the carrier safely transports it to its destination, and you’ll be reunited in a few days.

Stay informed about your vehicle's status throughout transportation by maintaining open communication channels. Your options include contacting our dedicated car shipping experts, contacting the assigned carrier directly, or connecting with the driver via phone, live chat, or email.

step 3

We deliver your vehicle

Get ready to hear from your carrier again soon. They'll contact you to confirm the delivery specifics and inform you of their imminent arrival. You'll receive a courtesy call the day before and a few hours before they reach you. They aim to ensure you're available and that the delivery spot is safe and legal.

Should you be unavailable during the scheduled delivery, feel free to designate another person over 18 to accept the vehicle on your behalf. It could be a neighbor, family member, friend, or trusted colleague – just ensure they're ready and waiting.

When your vehicle arrives with the carrier, inspect it closely alongside the driver. Compare its current condition with what was recorded in the original Bill of Lading (BOL) to ensure accuracy. Once satisfied, sign off on the Bill of Lading to acknowledge receipt of the vehicle and smoothly finalize any remaining payments.

Throughout this process, we're committed to keeping you informed and ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Car shipping vehicle delivery step 3

How much does open car transport cost?

A sedan costs between $500 and $1,000 for open car transport, while a truck costs between $600 and $1,500. Shipping a compact SUV using enclosed car shipping costs between $900 and $1,700, whereas an SUV costs between $1,000 and $2,000.

How much does open car transport cost?
Sedan$950
SUV$1,015
Pick-up Truck$1,140

* Please keep in mind that the prices are for an open car transport carrier and a small-size vehicle, and that both transit times and shipping prices shown are approximate estimates. Actual costs and delivery times may vary based on factors such as seasonal demand, fuel prices, pick-up and delivery locations, transport type, weather conditions, road conditions, carrier availability, etc.

Customer experiences, in their own words:

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long it takes to transport a military vehicle depends on several factors. We can give you an estimated time frame, but distance, specific routes, unexpected delays like weather or traffic, and other things can influence delivery times.

Shorter distances typically take a few days, while cross-country trips might extend up to 5 days. Military car shipping to and from Hawaii takes even longer as there is a journey across the ocean to consider.

Let’s examine what affects the speed of your vehicle’s journey with our military auto transport services.

  • Pick-up and drop-off locations: Shipments originating from major metropolitan areas often move faster thanks to better infrastructure and higher demand. Rural pick-ups or drop-offs may take longer due to limited access and fewer available carriers.
  • Distance: The longer the journey, the more transit time is required—typically 1–2 days for short hauls and 7–9 days for cross-country transport.
  • Seasonal demand: Peak moving seasons (late spring to early fall) see higher demand and shorter transit times. Conversely, winter months may experience longer wait times due to reduced demand and holiday breaks for carriers.
  • Weather conditions: Severe weather, such as snowstorms or heavy rain, can slow transport, as safety takes precedence. Poor driving conditions lead to slower driving speeds or temporary halts.
  • Road conditions and traffic: Road construction, detours, and traffic congestion in urban areas can cause delays, while rural areas may have fewer alternative routes and slower responses to road issues.
  • Driver regulations: Strict regulations limit driving hours for truck drivers, ensuring safety but potentially extending transit times.
  • Vehicle type: Larger, heavier, or specialized vehicles may require more time for loading, handling, and finding suitable carriers.
  • Vehicle condition: Operable vehicles can be shipped more quickly than inoperable ones, which require special handling and preparation.
  • Transportation method: Military car shipping methods prioritize safety and efficiency but may vary in speed. Open car transport is faster due to higher availability and simultaneous shipment of multiple vehicles. In contrast, enclosed car shipping offers greater protection but may take longer due to fewer available carriers and more meticulous handling processes.
  • Service level: Military auto transport services prioritize timely and secure delivery, but expedited services may be more expensive.

The cost of door-to-door vehicle shipping hinges on several dynamic factors, each influencing pricing in its own way. By understanding these elements, you can navigate the process more effectively:

  • Market demand: Military vehicle transport prices vary seasonally (cyclical) or due to mass relocations (non-cyclical). These impact urban areas and rural areas differently. Prices for rural areas are generally higher because of lower demand. In urban locations, prices increase when demand is high and decrease when demand is low.
  • Truck availability: When fewer trucks are available, there is increased demand and higher prices. Availability generally changes in direct correlation with market demand.
  • Distance: Distance is a pricing factor, but market demand often dictates prices. For example, a busy but short route may have higher prices than longer routes with lower prices. However, generally, the shorter the distance, the lower the price.
  • Vehicle dimensions: Larger vehicles tend to be bulkier and heavier. They cost more to transport because of height and weight restrictions and the carrier’s need to optimize truck capacity.
  • Vehicle value: Shipping valuable vehicles typically costs more, mainly when enclosed car shipping is the chosen transport method because it provides added protection.
  • Vehicle condition: Non-running vehicles require specialized handling and take longer, which affects overall expenses.
  • Seasonality: If you ship your vehicle during peak seasons, you can expect to pay more. It costs more during summer and holidays. Opt for off-peak times instead, and you could enjoy savings.
  • Fuel prices: Fluctuating fuel costs directly influence shipping rates. Higher fuel prices increase the carrier's overall costs, which are generally passed onto the customer.
  • Expedited/express transport: Quicker service comes at a premium due to accelerated timelines.
  • Guaranteed pick-up date: A timely pick-up incurs additional charges for pre-scheduled carriers.
  • Transport type: Open car transport is more common and cost-effective, while enclosed car shipping provides higher security at a higher cost.
  • Pick-up and delivery locations: Accessibility challenges or additional fees at specific locations impact overall expenses.
  • Extra services: Additional services beyond standard shipping may add to total costs.
  • Discounts: Discounts for the military can help offset shipping expenses.

To place a military car transport order, you typically need to provide the following details:

  • Vehicle information: Year, make, model, and condition of the vehicle(s) you want to transport.
  • Pick-up and delivery locations: Addresses or ZIP codes for pick-up and delivery points.
  • Preferred transport type: Whether you prefer open car transport or enclosed car shipping.
  • Contact information: Your full name, phone number, and email address for communication purposes.
  • Date preferences: Ideal dates for pick-up and delivery if you have specific timelines.
  • Military affiliation: Proof of military service or identification to qualify for military discounts or benefits.
  • Additional services: Any extra services required, such as expedited shipping, extra insurance, or vehicle storage.

Providing accurate and detailed information ensures a smooth booking process and helps military-friendly shipping companies effectively cater to your specific needs.

When arranging military auto shipping, your vehicle is typically picked up and delivered directly outside the military base locations specified. This ensures convenient access for both pick-up and delivery and efficiently accommodates military personnel's needs. The auto transport company coordinates with you to determine the exact pick-up and delivery points, ensuring smooth logistics and adherence to base regulations.

If the pick-up and delivery are for somewhere other than a military base, the carrier’s driver brings the car transporter as close to your preferred location as he can legally and safely. In most cases, this is directly at your door.

However, some cities have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into residential areas. The size of auto transport trucks means they need a lot of room to maneuver and turn around. Therefore, if narrow streets, low-hanging trees, power lines, or tight turns restrict access, the driver may ask you to pick a more suitable location. One alternative is somewhere with a large parking lot.

Although online tracking of your shipment is not currently available, we give you regular updates on its progress from the moment of dispatch and pick-up. We also give you the driver’s and dispatch department’s contact details. The driver contacts you when the pick-up and delivery times approach. You can also get regular updates over the phone, live chat, or email.

Yes, military car shipping companies can deliver your car to a military base even if you're not present to receive it. You can designate a representative over 18 to accept delivery on your behalf. Coordinate with the transport company to provide necessary authorization and ensure a smooth handover process at the military base.

Yes, if your vehicle has modifications that affect its dimensions or weight or require special handling during transport, you may incur additional costs. Modifications such as lift kits, oversized tires, or aftermarket accessories can impact the transport process and may require specific arrangements or equipment, which could result in higher shipping fees.

Please inform our car shipping experts about any modifications beforehand to receive accurate pricing and ensure smooth transportation.

Yes, your vehicle is typically insured throughout the military vehicle shipping process. We provide comprehensive insurance coverage to protect your vehicle against damages that may occur during transit. This coverage offers peace of mind, knowing that your car is financially safeguarded during transportation to its destination.

No, personal items inside the car are generally not insured during the vehicle shipping process. Military car shipping companies typically do not cover personal belongings left inside the vehicle. It's essential to remove all personal items before shipping to avoid any potential issues or loss of items during transit.

When military personnel receive their PCS orders, there are several moving options. A Government Managed Move (GMM) is when the government hires movers for you. Another option is a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY (Do-It-Yourself) Move. A PPM gives you the freedom to manage your own move, including packing, transporting, and unpacking your belongings. While it requires more effort and planning, you can receive financial reimbursement based on weight and distance criteria. This option provides flexibility and control over your move, allowing you to choose trusted auto transport companies for vehicle shipping.

WeShipCars needs no documentation, only the vehicle and the key. We recommend you mail any legal documents for your car and never transport them inside.

Yes, the military offers vehicle shipping services for service members relocating stateside. This service is called POV (Privately Owned Vehicle) or PCS (Permanent Change of Station) vehicle shipping. Service members can arrange to have their cars transported between military bases or other designated locations within the United States. However, it is free for only one vehicle, and you must meet specific requirements.

Shipping a car to Hawaii for military personnel is possible. The military offers vehicle shipping services for service members relocating to Hawaii as part of the Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. Alternatively, you can hire a military car shipping company like WeShipCars to facilitate the shipping process for added convenience and flexibility.

Military car shipping overseas is an option, but there are things to keep in mind:

  • If you wish to ship your POV overseas, it must be authorized on your orders.
  • You must use approved military car shipping ports or make an official request to use an alternative one.
  • The government only pays to ship a vehicle up to 20 metric tons at the government’s expense.

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