Military PCS Vehicle Shipping Guide
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is one of the most significant logistical events in a military family's life. Between arranging household goods, coordinating travel, and settling into a new duty station, figuring out how to get your vehicle there can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about shipping your car during a PCS move.
Understanding PCS Vehicle Entitlements
The military provides certain entitlements to help service members transport their personally owned vehicles (POVs) during a PCS. However, the specifics depend on whether your move is within the continental United States (CONUS) or to an overseas location (OCONUS).
Key things to know about your entitlements:
- The military typically covers the cost of shipping one POV for OCONUS moves
- For CONUS moves, vehicle shipping costs are generally the service member's responsibility
- You may be reimbursed for mileage if you drive the vehicle yourself during a CONUS PCS
- Entitlements can vary by branch of service and specific orders, so always verify with your transportation office
CONUS PCS Vehicle Shipping
When you receive PCS orders to a new duty station within the continental United States, you have a few options for getting your vehicle there. Many service members choose to drive, but that is not always practical, especially for moves spanning thousands of miles or when you have multiple vehicles.
For CONUS moves, you will typically arrange and pay for auto transport out of pocket. The good news is that comparing quotes from multiple carriers can help you find competitive rates. Common CONUS PCS routes include moves between major installations like:
- Fort Liberty (North Carolina) to Fort Cavazos (Texas)
- Joint Base San Antonio (Texas) to Fort Stewart (Georgia)
- Camp Pendleton (California) to Camp Lejeune (North Carolina)
- Fort Drum (New York) to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (Washington)
OCONUS PCS Vehicle Shipping
For overseas PCS moves, the military's POV shipping program handles the transportation of your vehicle. The Department of Defense contracts with Vehicle Processing Centers (VPCs) located near major ports. You drop your vehicle off at the designated VPC, and it is shipped by vessel to your overseas destination.
Important OCONUS details:
- You are authorized to ship one POV at government expense per PCS order
- The vehicle must meet the destination country's requirements for emissions, safety, and registration
- Processing and shipping can take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the destination
- You will need to prepare your vehicle according to VPC requirements, including reducing the fuel level and removing personal items
Timelines and Planning
Timing is critical for PCS vehicle shipping. Here is a general planning timeline:
- As soon as orders arrive: Research your vehicle shipping options and start gathering quotes for CONUS moves
- 30 to 45 days before PCS: Book your carrier for CONUS moves or schedule your VPC drop-off for OCONUS
- 2 weeks before: Prepare your vehicle following the standard pre-shipping checklist
- Shipping day: Complete the inspection and hand off the vehicle
For CONUS auto transport, typical transit times range from 3 to 10 days depending on distance. Plan your arrival at the new duty station accordingly.
Documentation You Will Need
Keep the following documents organized and accessible:
- A copy of your PCS orders
- Vehicle registration and title
- Valid military ID
- Power of attorney if a spouse is handling the shipment
- Insurance documentation
- The Bill of Lading from your carrier
Tips for Military Families
- Start early. Do not wait until the last week before your report date to arrange vehicle shipping.
- Compare quotes. For CONUS moves, rates vary widely between carriers. Use Car Ship Deal to compare options and save money during an already expensive transition.
- Ask about military discounts. Some carriers offer discounts for active-duty service members. It never hurts to ask.
- Coordinate with your spouse. If you need to report early, ensure your spouse has the documentation and authority to handle vehicle pickup or delivery.
- Keep receipts. Even for out-of-pocket CONUS shipping, keep all receipts. Some expenses may be tax-deductible as unreimbursed moving costs for military members.
You Have Options
A PCS move is stressful enough without worrying about how to get your car across the country. Whether you are heading to Fort Liberty, Joint Base San Antonio, Camp Pendleton, or anywhere in between, taking the time to compare rates and plan ahead will make the vehicle shipping piece of your move one less thing to worry about. Keep in mind that the spring and summer PCS cycle overlaps with peak shipping season, so booking early is key.