Military Car Shipping Guide: Stress-Free Vehicle Transport During Relocation

Military relocations come with unique challenges, and moving your car is often one of the biggest. Every year, thousands of service members receive Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, requiring them and their families to pack up their lives and move, sometimes across the country, sometimes overseas. While the military helps cover certain aspects of relocation, vehicle transport is often left to the individual. That’s where military car shipping services come in.

Suppose that you’ve just received PCS orders, and the clock is ticking. You’re already juggling housing, family logistics, and reporting dates. The last thing you need is the stress of figuring out how to drive your vehicle across multiple states, risking wear and tear, or showing up late because of delays on the road. Professional military auto transport services are designed to solve this exact problem.

To many service members, a vehicle is not merely a form of transportation but an extension of their daily lives. Preowned Auto Logistics (PAL) has experience transporting vehicles for service members and military families. PAL provides nationwide, door-to-door car shipping, including options for enclosed auto transport for high-value vehicles.

Years of experience, a network of trusted drivers, and military car shipping services customized specifically for service members mean your vehicle will get the same level of care and respect you give to your duties.

This guide explains:

• What military car shipping is vs. civilian auto transport
• Why utilizing a professional shipping service is worth it
• The pros and cons of utilizing PCS vehicle transport
• How to pick the right provider for your needs

What Is Military Car Shipping?

At its most fundamental level, military auto transport refers to the professional shipping service of a personal vehicle during a PCS move. While this may sound straightforward and similar to civilian auto transport, there are some critical differences.

Military vs. civilian transport

In civilian transportation, a vehicle is shipped from point A to point B for various reasons, which can include a long-distance relocation, an online car purchase, or transporting a car seasonally. The individual will decide which transport is best and book it accordingly.

With military auto transport, however, there are specific requirements surrounding PCS orders, modes of transport, base access, tight delivery windows, and often cross-country travel involved. Additionally, for military service members who’ll be without a car upon arriving at a new duty station, reliable transportation isn’t a luxury; it’s necessary for everyday life.

The military auto transport process

In general, the process includes the following steps:

1. Booking and paperwork: Military members book their shipment with a licensed carrier, provide the carrier with their active PCS orders or military documents, and set over timelines for pickup and delivery, among other details.

2. Vehicle pickup: Depending on the company, this is either door-to-door car shipping or terminal-to-terminal transportation.

3. Transport method: Vehicle transport will either be via open carrier, typically offering the best price point, or enclosed auto transport.

4. Delivery: The car is delivered to or near the military base according to the service member’s reporting timelines to minimize the time(IME) without the vehicle.

Common PCS routes and destinations

Specific routes are heavily traveled due to base assignments. Examples include:

• East Coast transfers (Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia)

• Cross-country moves between California and the East Coast

• Midwest relocations near states like Kansas, Texas, or Colorado

• Overseas transfers to a port city like Norfolk or San Diego.

Why it matters

With vehicle transport for service members, the focus is on reliability and flexibility. You don’t want to worry whether your car will make it in time or risk it being damaged along the way. By using trusted military auto transport, you’re ensuring your vehicle is in safe hands while you focus on settling into your new duty station.

Why Choose Professional Auto Transport During Military Relocation?

Receiving PCS orders and planning the move to a new duty station often feels like you’re racing against the clock. You have housing to choose, files and paperwork to manage, family issues to deal with, and need to prepare for a new report date.

A road trip is a practical way to transport your car, or cars if you have accompanying family, and save money. However, once you consider the time, wear and tear on your vehicle, the need to leave family behind for part of the drive home, and the costs associated with a long route, using a professional military car shipping service becomes much more attractive.

Professional military car shipping saves time.

Depending on your relocation distance or the route you take through the northern part of the country, driving long distances can take days or even weeks. For instance, transporting a vehicle from Norfolk, VA, to San Diego, CA, means traveling just shy of 3,000 miles. Even with a fuel-efficient car, the journey takes over 40 hours, not counting breaks, overnight stays, bathroom stops, eating/sleeping in the car, and traffic and road construction delays.

Your time is best utilized focusing on making a great transition to your new duty station, ensuring your family is in a comfortable living situation, and making sure you adhere to all travel and PCS requirements. By handing off the responsibility of getting your vehicle transported to the car shipping experts, you free up many hours of preparation and travel time.

Flexible scheduling and door-to-door delivery

Military car transport companies incorporate a great deal of flexibility into their scheduling for pickup and delivery. Most vehicles used for transporting cars cross-country utilize door-to-door car shipping. That means the drivers will pick up the vehicle at your residence and deliver it there or to the nearest depot to the new duty station of the service member, near points of interest, or to a home or hotel close by where other family members may live.

Cost Comparison: Driving vs. Shipping

At first glance, driving might seem cheaper—but the numbers tell a different story. A cross-country trip easily racks up expenses:

• Gas: $400–$700, depending on distance and fuel prices
• Lodging: $100–$150 per night (for multi-day trips)
• Meals: $30–$50 per day, per person
• Maintenance: Oil changes, tire wear, potential breakdowns
• Lost time: Days spent on the road instead of preparing for your new assignment or being with your family

In many cases, the total cost of driving approaches or even exceeds the price of professional PCS vehicle transport, especially when you add the value of your own time and energy.

Door-to-Door Delivery Options

Flexibility is a key advantage of using a professional service. With door-to-door military auto transport, your vehicle is picked up at your current home (or a nearby convenient location) and delivered to your new residence or base access point. This service removes unnecessary stress—no long drives to drop off your car, no need to arrange a ride after pickup, and no waiting around at distant terminals.

For families relocating with multiple cars, professional transport allows both vehicles to arrive together, avoiding the logistical nightmare of splitting drivers or caravanning across states.

Real-Life Example

Consider a service member stationed in Texas who receives PCS orders to Virginia. Driving the 1,300 miles would take about two full days on the road, not including stops. Instead, by using PAL’s military car shipping services, the vehicle can be picked up in San Antonio, transported securely across the country, and delivered near the new base in Norfolk. In contrast, the service member flies to Virginia and uses the extra time to get their family settled.

Peace of Mind during a Stressful Transition

Relocation isn’t just a move; it’s a significant life event. Every step you can take to reduce stress and protect your family’s comfort makes a difference. Knowing your vehicle is in professional hands means one less worry during PCS season.

That’s why so many service members opt for professional military car shipping. It’s not just about moving a car; it’s about making relocation manageable, efficient, and less overwhelming.

Pros and Cons of Military Auto Transport

Deciding on what to do with your vehicle is likely the most difficult decision you will have to make during a PCS move. Many service members prefer to utilize military auto transport services to take one of the many stressors off their hands when relocating. Like every other service out there, it has advantages, as well as downsides, that need to be considered to make the right decision.

Pros of military auto transport

1. Saves time and hassle

Cross-country drives can take a toll on you. You are stuck in a vehicle for several days, away from family, and spending time breaking down the contents of your old life and preparing for the new one. By utilizing professional PCS vehicle transport, you no longer have the burden of driving your car to your new prospective duty station. A company will handle it for you while you’re flying home, allowing you to catch up on move preparations.

2. Reliable timing

When you receive your official PCS orders, there is likely a hard reporting date that you are required to arrive at your new duty station by. A quality transporter will work with you to provide a reasonably timed pickup and delivery window right in line with your move, so that you can have your vehicle as soon as possible upon arriving.

With door-to-door car shipping, you avoid the extra trip to a transport terminal to pick up your vehicle later. The service is all-encompassing and tailored to accommodate your move as seamlessly as possible.

3. Safety and security

Driving for several days exposes your vehicle to several risks. Potential breakdowns, inclement weather, loose debris, and possible accidents are all likely to occur while driving cross-country. Military auto transport takes away many of those risks. Your vehicle will be securely placed on a carrier designed to withstand the elements during the journey. Plus, it will be covered by insurance, providing you with an additional safety net.

4. Less wear and tear on your vehicle

Every mile adds strain to an engine, tires, and brakes. Long road trips add thousands of miles in a short period, which lowers resale value and leads to costly maintenance. Shipping your car prevents unnecessary wear, keeping your vehicle in better shape for the future.

5. Professional support

Companies like Preowned Auto Logistics understand the unique needs of service members. From flexible scheduling to guidance on paperwork, professional support teams make the process easier. A dedicated point of contact answers your questions and keeps you informed until delivery is complete.

Cons of military car shipping

1. Plan in advance

Shipping your car requires planning on your part. You must make reservations, fill out paperwork, ensure the keys are available for pickup, and have the vehicle ready for drop off. All of these things can be time-consuming if you are focused on other tasks. But remember that you must plan for transportation while you are in the middle of a long-distance move.

2. Not all auto transport companies offer military discounts

Some auto shippers have little to no knowledge of the requirements for discounts, arrangements, and the documentation involved in a Permanent Change of Station or a Temporary Duty assignment. Some companies operate like any regular civilian auto transport organization. Members of the service must research shipping companies and know the requirements before enlisting their services.

3. Pickup and delivery windows

Auto transport companies provide pickup windows, delivery windows, or both. They do not typically offer exact times for when you can expect your vehicle to be loaded or delivered. Delays occur for a variety of reasons. These can include traffic, going off route to pick up or drop off another car, or inclement weather. A good shipping company will do its best to minimize these delays, but there is nothing set in stone. It’s best to prepare for these delays and work with an auto transport company that has experience moving this type of automobile shipment, as knowing the causes will help keep issues to a minimum.

4. Costs compared to driving

Shipping your vehicle costs money. If you are driving it to your next duty station, you can easily calculate the cost of fuel, food, lodging, wear and tear on your car, and pay for extra fees that add up as the time stretches. Driving your vehicle the same distance seems like an inexpensive way to complete your move, but it is actually costly and takes a long time. Many may view the cost of shipping as an additional expense. However, it actually incurs lower costs when considering the savings from not needing to sleep, eat, or travel by truck or aircraft without stops.

Is it More Trouble than it’s Worth?

For most service members, the pros far outweigh the cons. Military car shipping saves you time, keeps stress to a minimum, and reduces the chance of damage to your vehicle. The cons of early planning, shipping costs, and open transportation options are manageable.

How to Choose the Right Car Shipping Service for Military Moves

Not all auto transport companies are the same. For service members, choosing the right provider makes the difference between a smooth move and a stressful one. Since PCS orders already bring enough challenges, your transporter should ease the process, not add complications. Here’s how to evaluate your options and select a service that fits your military relocation needs.

Experience with military relocations

Look for a company that has a proven track record of successfully shipping military vehicles. Companies that cater specifically to service members are familiar with rules regarding base access, understand PCS timelines, and prioritize transparent communication. Military vehicle transport companies recognize that timing holds significance for service members, and they structure their operations accordingly.

Experience can often be verified through online reviews, requests for referrals, and direct inquiries about PCS procedures listed on their website. Companies that include military car shipping in their services likely employ dedicated teams to assist service members with their specific requirements.

Proper licensing and insurance

A professional transporter must hold a valid license through the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These credentials prove the company is legally authorized to operate across state lines. Insurance is another non-negotiable factor. Every carrier should provide coverage during transport. Ask for proof of insurance and clarify the protection offered for your vehicle. While most cars arrive without issues, insurance guarantees financial security if damage occurs.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport Options

Most service members choose open transport carriers because they are cost-effective and widely available. These carriers haul multiple vehicles at once, which keeps rates lower. Open carriers suit standard cars, trucks, and SUVs.

For high-value, classic, or newer vehicles, enclosed auto transport offers extra protection. Cars ride inside a covered trailer, shielded from rain, dust, and road debris. This option costs more, but it adds peace of mind for those who want maximum safety. The right choice depends on your vehicle type, your budget, and your comfort level with exposure during the trip.

Door-to-door service vs. terminals

Door-to-door service is generally more convenient. The carrier picks up your vehicle at your current address and delivers it as close to your new location as feasible. For military installation relocations with stringent entry requirements, the carrier often arranges a drop-off point off base. This avoids the hassle of terminals.

Terminal-to-terminal transport may offer savings, but you’re responsible for taking the vehicle to their lot and picking it up when it arrives. The cost benefits may not be significant, and most military personnel choose door-to-door service even with terminal options since it aligns better with PCS timelines.

Questions to ask before booking

Selecting a transporter may feel more like hiring a partner for your upcoming journey than a transactional service. Be sure to ask the right questions ahead of your reservation:

• How many of your shipments are for military moves or PCSs?
• What licenses and insurance are you covered by?
• Do you have military discounts?
• What’s your usual pickup and delivery window?
• Can you provide an estimate based on door-to-door service near my location or on base?
• Can I track my shipment, and when does this become available?
• What is customer support like when I have questions or need assistance with changing plans?

Straightforward answers can expose a company’s honesty and approachability or raise red flags about a lack of integrity. If you have doubts about any of their responses or feel like you’re not getting a straight answer, continue your search.

Military-specific discounts

Several companies appreciate the service of active military members by offering military discounts on vehicle shipping services for military relocations. Although not all companies provide military auto shipping discounts, these can be particularly beneficial for long-distance or cross-country moves. Be sure to ask if they offer special rates for servicemen and women on active duty, veterans, or military families relocating.

Some companies offer loyalty discounts for car shipping to military personnel due to their frequent PCS moves. Since PCS moves may happen often in your military career, this can add up to nice savings over the course of time.

Tracking your order and customer service

When shipping your vehicle during a PCS, you will want to know precisely where it is during the entire journey and approximately when it will be delivered. Ensure the transporter can provide tracking updates via phone, email, or an online system.

While tracking is important, customer service is also key. You want to ensure that a representative is available to you at any point in the shipping process. You should be assigned a dedicated account representative to discuss your order and answer any questions that arise. This is especially important during relocation, as stress levels are already high. Having a company with excellent customer service will help you feel at ease during the whole process.

Why Military Members Prefer Preowned Auto Logistics

When facing a PCS move, it’s essential to have partners who understand military life. Preowned Auto Logistics (PAL) has earned that trust by offering dependable, adaptable, and military-friendly auto transport services. PAL’s commitment to serving military and veteran customers distinguishes it from generic car shipping companies.

Deep understanding of military moves

Over the years, PAL has developed significant expertise in shipping vehicles for active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families, making PAL a well-known and trusted name in auto transport services. PAL’s team is exceptionally familiar with PCS orders and understands that service members often face tight deadlines on relocations. PAL’s experience in this arena helps them foresee potential roadblocks during a move and proactively offer solutions.

Whether transporting military personnel and their vehicles cross-country from coast to coast or shipping vehicles between local posts, service members can trust PAL to handle each order with personal attention.

Door-to-door service and nationwide reach

The most valuable feature PAL offers is its door-to-door car shipping service. PAL handles the logistics of picking up vehicles right from the customer’s doorstep and delivering them as closely to the new duty station as allowed by law, eliminating the need for individuals to arrange alternate transportation to and from commercial shipping terminals. Given the time constraints associated with many PCS orders, this service can be crucial.

The company operates extensively throughout the continental United States, which allows the transport of regional and cross-country orders. From a Navy base on the East Coast to a Fort in the Midwest to a facility on the West Coast, PAL has established routes throughout the continental U.S. 

Familiarity with security protocols and base replication

Not every transportation company is adept at delivering vehicles to military bases or knows how to navigate the related security protocols. PAL employs and trains drivers who understand how to follow these protocols and stay in contact with service members about their instructions for complying with them. If direct delivery to the base isn’t an option, PAL can work with customers to arrange pickup at a nearby lot and then escort them in. The familiarity with base regulations and procedures helps streamline the process.

Understanding of deadlines

Many PCS orders come with a date the person must report. PAL understands these deadlines and aims to schedule vehicle pickup and delivery to coincide with cross-country moves. Planning the transport around the customer’s move-in date helps ensure service members have access to their vehicles soon after arriving at their new post.

PAL also understands that events sometimes require changes to a customer’s planned schedule. If a service member needs to change pickup or delivery dates due to a shift in the reporting date, PAL will work with them to make the necessary adjustments. In a world filled with uncertainty, such assurance is crucial.

Personalized service

With so much at stake during a move, having one point of contact at the shipping company makes the process easier. At PAL, each customer is assigned an account manager who stays in touch over the phone and by text for personalized service throughout the transport process. Customers can call or text with any questions about the booking, payment, scheduling, pickup, or delivery, without dealing with an automated system.

Many military personnel appreciate the transparency provided by PAL. Once an order is confirmed, they are told the booking dates for vehicle pickup, an approximate delivery window, the name and phone number of the driver, and the route. Customers receive regular updates as needed, which helps set travel expectations and enables families to plan accordingly.

Military discounts and repeat benefits

In gratitude for our service, PAL offers military car shipping discounts that reduce the transport cost. The discount helps reduce the cost of cross-country vehicle transport, which is especially needed when families are already trying to accommodate the price of a PCS move. For families that relocate multiple times during a military career, PAL provides repeat customers with the same level of care and customer service for each order.

Excellent customer reviews

Service members report being completely satisfied with their experience with PAL, including timely shipping, excellent care of the vehicle, and seamless handling of the process. Other PAL reviews note customer contractors showing compassion and professionalism during cross-country moves.

Some reviews mentioned favorable door-to-door shipping, while others noted how drivers took exceptional care of the vehicles. These experiences help build PAL’s reputation as a premier moving company for military and veterans, and these recommendations have weight.

Conclusion

Every PCS brings a significant transition, but transferring your vehicle doesn’t have to be another hassle. Military vehicle shipping provides service members with the assurance of punctual vehicle transportation, minimizes unnecessary road time, and offers overall vehicle protection as they move with their families. A relationship with a nationwide shipping expert like Preowned Auto Logistics simplifies the entire process for your family.

Key takeaways:

•  Military vehicle transport reduces stress and hassle during the moving process.
•  Professional transport effort minimizes road wear time, and insurance adds extra peace of mind.
• Universal door-to-door transport coinciding with your reporting date streamlines your process/peace of mind.
• Shipping with Preowned Auto Logistics offers nationwide transport, military pricing, and dedicated professional service.

Relocate thanks to a vehicle shipping expertly tailored for PCS. Schedule an easier move today. Reach out to Preowned Auto Logistics for your no-obligation quote and experience the ease of service member auto transport.