Military PCS Vehicle Shipping: The Complete Guide for Service Members
PCS Vehicle Shipping: What You Need to Know
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is stressful enough without worrying about how to get your vehicles to your new duty station. Whether you are moving from Fort Liberty to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, from Naval Station Norfolk to NAS Jacksonville, or anywhere in between, this guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your vehicle during a military PCS move.
At Ultimate Transport 123, we have proudly served military families for years, providing reliable auto transport with dedicated military discounts. We understand the unique challenges and timelines that come with PCS moves, and our team is equipped to work within those constraints.
The Basics: How Military Vehicle Shipping Differs
Military PCS vehicle shipping shares the same fundamentals as civilian auto transport, but with a few key differences:
- Reimbursement potential: Service members receive PCS travel allowances that can help offset or fully cover vehicle shipping costs.
- Time sensitivity: PCS report dates are non-negotiable, creating firmer shipping deadlines.
- Base access: Pickup and delivery to military installations requires coordination for carrier access.
- Peak season concentration: The military’s PCS season (May-August) overlaps with the busiest time in auto transport, increasing competition for carrier space.
- Multiple vehicles: Military families often need to ship 2+ vehicles, which adds complexity but also qualifies for multi-vehicle discounts.
CONUS PCS Moves: How Vehicle Shipping Works
For PCS moves within the Continental United States (CONUS), the military does not directly arrange or pay for vehicle shipping. Instead, the expectation is that you will drive your vehicle to your new duty station, and you are reimbursed for the mileage.
However, there are many situations where driving is impractical or impossible:
- You have more vehicles than drivers in your household.
- The move is across the country and you do not want to make a 4-5 day road trip.
- You need to report to your new duty station before your family arrives.
- Your vehicle needs to arrive at a different time than you do.
- Health conditions or family circumstances prevent a long drive.
In these cases, hiring a private auto transport company like Ultimate Transport 123 is the most practical solution. You can use your PCS travel allowances, mileage reimbursement, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help cover the shipping costs.
The CONUS Vehicle Shipping Process for Military Members
- Receive your PCS orders. Review your orders to understand your travel allowances and authorized entitlements.
- Contact an auto transport company. Get a quote from Ultimate Transport 123 — mention your military status for a discount.
- Coordinate timing. Work with the transport company to schedule pickup and delivery around your PCS timeline.
- Prepare your vehicle. Follow the standard preparation checklist (wash, document condition, remove personal items, reduce fuel).
- Ship your vehicle. Complete the pickup inspection, hand over your keys, and track the shipment.
- Receive delivery. Inspect your vehicle at delivery and sign the Bill of Lading.
- Keep receipts. Save all transport invoices and receipts for your travel claim and tax records.
OCONUS PCS Moves: Government Vehicle Shipping
For PCS moves outside the Continental United States (OCONUS), the process is different. The government will ship one Privately Owned Vehicle (POV) at no cost to the service member through the Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) program, managed by International Auto Logistics (IAL).
How OCONUS Vehicle Shipping Works
- Visit pcsmypov.com to initiate the process and schedule your vehicle drop-off.
- Drop your vehicle off at the nearest VPC (Vehicle Processing Center). There are VPCs at major ports including locations near Norfolk VA, San Diego CA, Tacoma WA, Jacksonville FL, and others.
- The government ships your vehicle via ocean freight to your overseas duty station.
- Pick up your vehicle at the destination VPC.
Getting Your Vehicle TO the VPC
Here is where private auto transport comes in. If you are not stationed near a VPC, you may need to ship your vehicle to the nearest processing center. For example, if you are PCS-ing from Fort Riley, Kansas to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, you would need to get your vehicle to a VPC port — potentially hundreds of miles away.
Ultimate Transport 123 can ship your vehicle from your current location to the nearest VPC, and upon your return, from the VPC to your new stateside duty station.
Military PCS Vehicle Shipping Costs
Vehicle shipping costs for military PCS moves are based on the same factors as civilian shipments: distance, vehicle type, transport method, and timing. Here are typical costs for common military routes:
| Route | Distance | Standard Rate | With Military Discount (~10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Liberty, NC to Fort Hood, TX | ~1,250 mi | $800 – $1,100 | $720 – $990 |
| JBLM, WA to Fort Cavazos, TX | ~2,200 mi | $1,050 – $1,400 | $945 – $1,260 |
| Camp Pendleton, CA to Camp Lejeune, NC | ~2,700 mi | $1,100 – $1,500 | $990 – $1,350 |
| NS Norfolk, VA to NAS Jacksonville, FL | ~650 mi | $550 – $800 | $495 – $720 |
| Fort Carson, CO to Fort Moore, GA | ~1,500 mi | $850 – $1,200 | $765 – $1,080 |
| Schofield Barracks, HI to VPC (CA) | Government-shipped | N/A (government) | Free via VPC |
| VPC to Fort Liberty, NC | ~2,500 mi | $1,100 – $1,450 | $990 – $1,305 |
For additional pricing details, see our complete car shipping cost guide.
Military Members: Get Your Discounted Quote
We are proud to serve those who serve our country. Mention your military status for an automatic discount on your PCS vehicle shipment.
Get a Free Military QuotePCS Travel Allowances and Reimbursement
Understanding your PCS travel entitlements is crucial for maximizing reimbursement and minimizing out-of-pocket costs. Here are the primary allowances that can help cover vehicle shipping:
Mileage Reimbursement
When you PCS, you are authorized mileage reimbursement for driving between your old and new duty stations. As of 2026, the PCS mileage rate is $0.22 per mile. If you would have driven 2,000 miles, that is $440 in mileage reimbursement that you receive regardless of whether you drive or ship your vehicle.
Per Diem
You receive per diem for each authorized travel day during your PCS move. The per diem rate covers meals and incidentals (M&IE). If you ship your vehicle instead of driving, you may fly to your new duty station, which reduces the number of travel days but also reduces your per diem. Weigh this trade-off carefully.
Dislocation Allowance (DLA)
DLA is a one-time payment intended to help cover the miscellaneous expenses of a PCS move. While not specifically earmarked for vehicle shipping, DLA funds can be used toward transport costs. DLA rates vary by grade and dependency status, ranging from roughly $900 to $4,700.
Putting It All Together: A Reimbursement Example
Consider an E-6 with dependents PCS-ing from Fort Liberty, NC to Fort Cavazos, TX (approximately 1,350 miles):
| Allowance | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Mileage reimbursement (1,350 mi x $0.22) | $297 |
| Per diem (2 travel days, member + dependents) | $300 – $500 |
| Dislocation Allowance (DLA) | $2,500 – $3,200 |
| Total available allowances | $3,097 – $3,997 |
| Vehicle shipping cost (with military discount) | $720 – $990 |
| Remaining allowance after shipping | $2,107 – $3,277 |
In this example, the PCS allowances more than cover the cost of shipping one vehicle, and the service member still has money remaining from their allowances to cover other PCS expenses.
DITY/PPM Moves and Vehicle Transport
A Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly known as a DITY (Do-It-Yourself) move, is when you move your household goods yourself instead of using the government’s contracted mover. Under the PPM program, you receive 100% of the Government Constructive Cost (GCC) — the amount it would have cost the government to move your goods.
How PPM Can Help Fund Vehicle Shipping
While the PPM payment is specifically for household goods (based on weight), the savings generated by a PPM move can be substantial and can be used toward vehicle shipping. Many military families combine strategies:
- Do a partial PPM for some household goods to generate reimbursement funds.
- Use a government-contracted mover for the bulk of household goods.
- Apply PPM savings and PCS allowances toward professional vehicle transport.
This approach lets you take advantage of PPM reimbursement while ensuring your vehicles are professionally shipped and arrive safely.
Military Discounts on Auto Transport
Many auto transport companies recognize and appreciate military service by offering discounts. Here is what to know:
Ultimate Transport 123 Military Discount
We offer a dedicated military discount to:
- Active duty service members (all branches)
- Reserve and National Guard members
- Military retirees and veterans
- Military spouses and dependents
Simply mention your military status when calling 1-888-885-9123 or note it in your online quote request. The discount is applied automatically to your final pricing.
Additional Ways to Save
- Multi-vehicle discount: Shipping 2 or more vehicles? We offer additional savings per vehicle for multi-car shipments.
- Flexible pickup dates: A wider pickup window (5-7 days) allows carriers to optimize routes and pass savings to you.
- Off-peak timing: If your orders allow flexibility, shipping outside peak PCS season (September-April) can save 10-20%.
- Open transport: Unless you are shipping a high-value vehicle, open transport provides safe, reliable service at the best price.
Popular Military Base-to-Base Routes
Here are some of the most common PCS auto transport routes and what to expect:
| Route | Distance | Transit Time | Est. Cost (w/ discount) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Liberty to Fort Cavazos | 1,250 mi | 4-6 days | $720 – $990 |
| Camp Pendleton to JBLM | 1,250 mi | 4-6 days | $720 – $990 |
| Fort Moore to Fort Cavazos | 900 mi | 3-5 days | $585 – $810 |
| NS Norfolk to NAS Pensacola | 800 mi | 3-5 days | $540 – $765 |
| Fort Carson to Fort Liberty | 1,700 mi | 5-7 days | $810 – $1,125 |
| MCAS Miramar to Camp Lejeune | 2,600 mi | 7-10 days | $990 – $1,350 |
| Ft. Wainwright, AK (to VPC) | Varies | VPC process | Government-shipped |
Navigating Peak PCS Season
The military’s PCS season — roughly May through August — creates a massive surge in auto transport demand as hundreds of thousands of military families relocate simultaneously. This overlap with summer vacation season (when civilians also move) makes carrier space more competitive during these months.
Tips for Peak PCS Season
- Book 4-6 weeks in advance. During peak season, carriers fill up faster. Booking early ensures you get a spot and often a better price.
- Be flexible if possible. Even a 3-5 day pickup window can improve carrier availability.
- Budget slightly higher. Peak season rates can be 10-20% higher than off-peak. Factor this into your PCS budget.
- Coordinate with your sponsor. Your gaining unit sponsor can help coordinate delivery details at your new duty station.
- Have a backup plan. If your vehicle will arrive after you do, arrange a rental car or borrow a vehicle for the gap period.
Shipping To and From Military Bases
Delivering vehicles to and from military installations requires some extra coordination:
Base Access for Carrier Drivers
- Most bases require advance arrangements for commercial vehicle access.
- The service member may need to obtain a visitor pass for the carrier driver.
- Some bases require the service member to meet the carrier at the gate and escort them.
- Certain installations have designated commercial delivery areas where large carriers can operate safely.
Alternatives to On-Base Delivery
If base access proves difficult, consider these alternatives:
- Nearby off-base location: Meet the carrier at a large parking lot, shopping center, or hotel near the base gate.
- Off-base housing: If you live off-base, door-to-door delivery to your home address is typically straightforward.
- Terminal delivery: Some areas have auto transport terminals near major installations.
Ultimate Transport 123 has experience shipping to and from virtually every major military installation in the country. We can help coordinate base access and suggest the best delivery options for your specific situation.
PCS Vehicle Shipping Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure a smooth PCS vehicle shipping experience:
4-6 Weeks Before PCS
- Review PCS orders and travel entitlements
- Research and select an auto transport company
- Get a quote and mention your military status for a discount
- Book your shipment
- Begin coordinating base access if needed for pickup or delivery
1-2 Weeks Before Pickup
- Confirm your pickup date and window with the transport company
- Begin vehicle preparation (clean, remove items, reduce fuel)
- Take comprehensive photos and video of your vehicle
- Arrange base access pass for the carrier driver (if on-base pickup)
- Confirm delivery address and contact information
Pickup Day
- Complete the walkthrough inspection with the driver
- Review and sign the Bill of Lading carefully
- Take your own dated photos
- Hand over one set of keys
- Get the driver’s contact information
Delivery Day
- Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before signing
- Note any new damage on the delivery BOL
- Take photos and compare to your pickup photos
- Pay the remaining balance
- Save all receipts and documentation for your travel claim
After Delivery
- File any damage claims promptly (if applicable)
- Update vehicle registration if moving to a new state
- Update auto insurance with your new address
- Complete your travel voucher and include vehicle shipping receipts
Thank You for Your Service
Ultimate Transport 123 is honored to support military families during PCS moves. Let us take vehicle shipping off your plate so you can focus on what matters.
Get Your Military Discount QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
The military does not directly pay for vehicle shipping during a CONUS PCS move. Instead, service members receive a PCS travel allowance and mileage reimbursement (currently $0.22/mile for PCS travel) that can be used toward vehicle transport costs. For OCONUS moves, the military will ship one POV (Privately Owned Vehicle) at government expense through the Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) program.
Military PCS vehicle shipping costs the same as civilian auto transport ($500-$1,500 depending on distance), but many transport companies including Ultimate Transport 123 offer military discounts of 5-15% off standard rates. Combined with PCS travel allowances and mileage reimbursement, out-of-pocket costs can be significantly reduced or eliminated entirely.
Yes, you can ship two or more vehicles during a PCS move using a private auto transport company. For CONUS moves, there is no limit on vehicles you can ship at your own expense using your PCS allowances. For OCONUS moves, the government will ship one POV for accompanied tours; additional vehicles must be shipped at personal expense. Many transport companies offer multi-vehicle discounts of $100-$300 per additional vehicle.
A DITY (Do-It-Yourself) move, officially called a Personally Procured Move (PPM), is when a service member moves their household goods themselves instead of using the government’s moving contractor. While the PPM program covers household goods based on weight, the savings from a PPM can be used toward vehicle shipping costs. Service members receive 100% of the Government Constructive Cost (GCC) for PPM moves.
Book vehicle shipping 3-4 weeks before your desired pickup date for a PCS move. During peak PCS season (May through August), book even earlier — 4-6 weeks in advance — as carrier availability tightens when hundreds of thousands of military families are relocating simultaneously. Early booking also helps secure better rates.
Yes, many auto transport companies offer military discounts ranging from 5-15% off standard rates. Ultimate Transport 123 provides a dedicated military discount for active duty, reserve, National Guard, and veteran service members and their families. Call 1-888-885-9123 and mention your military status when requesting a quote.
Yes, carriers can deliver to military bases, but the process requires advance coordination. The carrier driver will need base access, which may require the service member to provide a visitor pass or meet the driver at the gate. Some bases have specific delivery areas or require escorts. Coordinate with your base’s transportation office and your auto transport company ahead of time.
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