Military Car Shipping: A Complete Guide for Service Members
Understanding Military Vehicle Transport Benefits
For active duty military personnel, PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders often mean relocating vehicles across the country or overseas. Special military car shipping Quotes help make these transitions smoother with:
✔ Discounted rates (typically 10-20% off standard prices)
✔ Priority booking during peak PCS seasons
✔ Flexible storage options during deployment
✔ Dedicated military transport specialists
✔ Door-to-door delivery to bases worldwide
Types of Military Auto Transport Options
1. Domestic Military Car Shipping
- Best for: CONUS (Continental U.S.) relocations
- Average cost: 800−800−2,500 depending on distance
- Transit time: 1-2 weeks coast-to-coast
- Special considerations: Base access requirements for delivery
2. International Military Vehicle Transport
- Overseas options: OCONUS (Outside Continental U.S.) moves
- Shipping methods:
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) for operational vehicles
- Container shipping for household goods + vehicles
- Key requirements:
- SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) documentation
- Military customs clearance assistance
How to Access Military Shipping Benefits
Through Government-Arranged Transport
- DITY (Do-It-Yourself) Move: Reimbursement for self-arranged shipping
- Government-Procured: Arranged through transportation office
Using Private Carriers with Military Discounts
- Top providers:
- Allied Pickfords (official DoD contractor)
- International Auto Logistics (IAL)
- Major carriers with military programs
Step-by-Step Military Shipping Process
- Get PCS orders and verify vehicle shipping entitlements
- Contact base transportation office for guidance
- Choose shipping method (government or private)
- Prepare vehicle (1/4 tank gas, remove prohibited items)
- Complete pre-shipment inspection with agent
- Track shipment through military logistics portal
- Receive vehicle at destination (may require base pass)
Special Considerations for Military Members
- Storage options during deployment (covered up to 90 days)
- Multiple vehicle discounts for families with 2+ cars
- Non-running vehicle accommodations (specialized carriers)
- Overseas pet transportation coordination
Cost-Saving Tips for Military Shipments
- Book early (6-8 weeks before PCS date)
- Combine shipments with other relocating service members
- Use terminal-to-terminal when possible
- Verify all reimbursable expenses with finance office
Common Challenges & Solutions
| Issue | Military-Specific Solution |
| Last-minute PCS changes | Priority rescheduling with military carriers |
| Overseas import restrictions | SOFA status exemptions |
| Delivery to restricted bases | Coordinated through base logistics |
| Deployment extensions | Free storage extensions available |
Resources for Military Members
- Defense Personal Property System (DPS): move.mil
- Military OneSource: 800-342-9647
- Base Transportation Office: First point of contact
“I shipped my Jeep to Germany through the military program. The whole process was handled through base logistics, and my vehicle arrived before I did!”
- Sgt. Mark T., U.S. Army
Final Checklist Before Shipping
☑ Verify your name matches vehicle registration
☑ Remove all prohibited items (flammables, weapons)
☑ Take dated photos of vehicle condition
☑ Obtain international insurance if going overseas
☑ Confirm delivery instructions with receiving base
For personalized assistance, contact your installation’s transportation office or visit Military OneSource for 24/7 relocation support. Your service comes with benefits – make sure you use them!
