A military move to a new post is one of the most challenging logistics tasks you will face as a service member. Typically, a Personally Owned Vehicle (POV) is among the last things taken care of – and the most nerve-racking one. Whether you need military auto transport across the country or just a few states over, this article describes exactly how military PCS car shipping works, what the government does (and doesn’t) cover, and how you can ship your car to your new post without any difficulties.
Does the Military Pay for Car Shipping During a PCS Move?
The answer depends on where you’re going. The government covers POV shipment for OCONUS (overseas) moves under the Defense Personal Property Program — but US Car-Go Freight handles CONUS (stateside) moves only. For your domestic PCS, you’ll arrange private transport, and your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) can help offset the cost.
If your orders are CONUS, contact your Transportation Management Office (TMO) to confirm, then get a free quote from US Car-Go Freight.
| Move Type | Government Coverage | Private Broker Option |
|---|---|---|
| CONUS (stateside) | No direct coverage | Yes — US Car-Go Freight ships door-to-door, all 48 states |
| Alaska / Hawaii | Partial — check your orders | Contact your TMO; private brokers may assist depending on orders |
How Military PCS Car Shipping Works with a Private Broker
In the case of a CONUS PCS move, it is typical for most military service members to engage the services of a licensed auto transport broker to coordinate door-to-door shipping. The steps that follow in order are:
- Get your orders confirmed. You’ll need a report date and destination. Carriers need at least 1–2 weeks of lead time; 3–4 weeks is better during peak PCS season (May–August).
- Request quotes. A broker like US Car-Go Freight shops your route through their trusted carriers to obtain the best rates and timeline.
- Book and prep your vehicle. Remove all personal belongings over 100 lbs, clean your car for inspection, and note all existing damage with photos.
- Vehicle pickup. A carrier driver picks up your vehicle at a confirmed location — door-to-door means they come to you, not to a lot.
- Delivery at your new duty station. You or a trusted person receives the vehicle, confirms condition at delivery, and signs off.
US Car-Go Freight requires no upfront deposit and is a licensed broker with verified carriers only — no marketplace guesswork.
What Does Military PCS Car Shipping Cost?
Costs vary based on distance, vehicle size, season, and carrier availability. The ranges below reflect typical open carrier door-to-door rates for a standard sedan.
SUVs, trucks, and non-running vehicles cost more. Enclosed transport is 30–50% more expensive for luxury or classic vehicles. It’s important to book early during the peak PCS period (May–August); it sees higher rates and tighter carrier availability.
| Route Example | Estimated Range | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| East Coast → Southeast | $500–$800 | 3–5 days |
| Southeast → Midwest | $600–$900 | 4–6 days |
| East Coast → West Coast | $900–$1,400 | 7–10 days |
| Midwest → Pacific Northwest | $700–$1,100 | 5–8 days |
| Texas → Florida | $600–$850 | 3–5 days |
Special Situations
Non-running vehicles
If your vehicle doesn’t start or drive, it can still be shipped — carriers use a winch to load it. Expect to pay a non-operational surcharge, typically $150–$250 extra.
Shipping two vehicles
You can ship both POVs with a private broker. Each is quoted separately. Some service members ship one and drive the other, depending on distance and timing.
Deploying before the PCS
If you’re deploying before your household goods move, a spouse or designated family member can coordinate the vehicle pickup and delivery. The broker just needs the name of whoever is receiving the car.
Back-to-back PCS moves
If you have orders immediately following a deployment, US Car-Go Freight can coordinate pickup from a family member’s address and deliver to your new duty station. Just let us know the full situation when you request a quote.
Timeline: How Long Does Military PCS Car Shipping Take?
Plan backwards from your report date, not forwards from when you feel ready.
Transit times run 3–10 days depending on the route. If your report date is firm, build in buffer — especially during peak PCS season when carriers are running at full capacity.
| Timeframe Before Report Date | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 4–6 weeks out | Get quotes, choose a broker, lock in your dates |
| 3–4 weeks out | Confirm booking, start vehicle prep |
| 1–2 weeks out | Final inspection, remove all personal items, photograph condition |
| Pickup day | Hand off keys, sign the Bill of Lading |
| Delivery day | Inspect vehicle against the Bill of Lading before signing off |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get reimbursed for CONUS PCS car shipping?
There’s no direct reimbursement program for CONUS POV shipping. However, your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) is a lump-sum payment meant to offset PCS-related expenses, and shipping your vehicle qualifies as one of them. Talk to your finance office about what you’re entitled to.
How far in advance should I book?
Minimum of two weeks; 4–6 weeks in PCS season (May to August). Carrier availability becomes tough in the summer months and prices also rise with demand.
Can I ship personal items in my car?
If using private transport, the majority of carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk. The items are shipped uninsured and at your own risk. When in doubt, remove everything — it protects you if there’s any issue at delivery.
What insurance covers my vehicle during shipping?
All licensed carriers have cargo insurance. Through booking with US Car-Go Freight, your vehicle is automatically covered under the cargo insurance of that carrier’s policy for the duration of transport. Make sure you document any pre-existing damage to your vehicle before pickup since any new damage will be easier to prove at delivery.
What happens if my orders get amended?
Sometimes it happens. Contact your broker immediately; most of them will be able to change the pickup time or destination if there is enough time. Any changes made near the pickup date may incur a rescheduling fee from the carrier.
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